Independent “Stardom” and Romanian Showbiz

Abstract

The article investigates consumerism and manufactured needs. Since the advent of digital technology, fans have had the opportunity to connect and communicate more easily. Media effects on society and on individuals are mostly negative resulting in the depreciation of headwork, stereotypes prevalence, and vulgarism. The celebrity's creation process and the subsequent exploitation of (the supposed) stars’ attitudes, behaviors, and popularity with the public are key factors for the rise of the mass entertainment industry. Even if Romanian society is dealing with serious social and, above all, political issues, it continues to be dominated by the power of media and the influence of artificially made models on the masses is huge. As a matter of fact, it is no wonder that celebrities such as Mihaela Rădulescu, Andreea Marin Bănică, Andreea Esca, and other members of the Romanian showbiz have got much attention from the tabloids. The article offers a critical review of Stardom, with particular regard to the dominant frame of the supposed celebrities.