Celebrities and politics-of course they mix!

 

E! Online, original credit: AP Photo/Chris Miller; Lisa O

 

 

   

 

  These days, its not enough to be on top of the music charts or have the number one movie at the box office. No, in order to be an “it” celebrity, you have to make your political voice heard as well.

 

For some celebrities, it’s all about supporting their favorite candidate.  For others, it’s about how much of their money they can tie to a campaign. And still, for others, it’s nothing more than a new fashion statement. (check out Aubrey O’Day, the recent ex-Danity Kane member)  The most popular celebrity/political coupling right now is SNL’s Tina Fey who does a hilarious (and physically accurate) spoof of VP nominee Sarah Palin.  Fey’s imitation of Palin has sent SNL’s ratings through the roof and the historical upcoming election has only made interest in the spoofs grow.  But why is interest in a political “short” receiving more attention than other equally funny spoofs that have appeared on SNL?  Is the topic drawing in a new audience? Is it now trendy to be involved in politics or have “intelligent humor?” I believe that celebrities are becoming more aware of the positive impact they can have on fans and are using their status to influence the public to raise their political voice as well.

 

Not only are celebrities showing they have an interest in the American government, (shocking for some, I know) they are making great PR moves as well.  If I were Tina Fey’s publicist, I would encourage her to continue making the spoofs for as long as she continues to get a positive public response.  She is showing that she is knowledgeable enough about today’s politics and she is, quite possibly, getting people interested in politics who normally wouldn’t.  Although putting one’s political beliefs in the public eye opens up the possibility of criticism, the benefits of both helping the candidate and making your voice heard is worthwhile.  In general, I would encourage any of my clients to have an active voice in politics because it shows they have more substance than just being a great actor, musician, etc. and that they have a concern for the country.