Celebrity Nation

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A former People magazine editor reveals how our cult of celebrity has shaped politics, culture, and personal lives—both positively and negatively. The author, who coined the term “baby boomer,” explores how fame has shifted from heroic achievements to being defined by “likes” and shares, and what this means for American culture. Drawing on decades spent in “celebrityland,” he offers a personal perspective on fame's complexities, especially in the age of the internet and social media. With insights from his time as managing editor of People magazine, he profiles celebrities he encountered, including Malcolm X and Princess Diana, while also commenting on contemporary figures like Kim Kardashian and the virtual influencer Miquela, a self-described “19-year-old Robot living in LA.” Analyzing over 75 celebrity stories across decades and industries, he illustrates how celebrity can serve as a weapon of mass distraction, fostering narcissism, harm, and loneliness. Yet, he also highlights figures like Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa and environmental activist Greta Thunberg, who effect meaningful change by engaging their communities rather than seeking personal glorification. This lively analysis reveals the pervasive impact of celebrity culture on our lives and helps us understand the mechanisms of fame.