How Reality TV Fails Its Stars
Reality TV creates villains and heroes out of ordinary people, who then have to inhabit that manufactured identity long after the camera stops rolling.
Celebrity
When “Cancel Culture” Means Letting Go
Cancel culture’s critics make bad-faith arguments about censorship and worry about artists’ ability to rehabilitate their careers. But what about their fans, who are grappling with the grief of relinquishing a beloved relationship with their work?
Does Fame Come At the Cost of Personhood?
In this excerpt from her memoir ‘Fame,’ actress Justine Bateman evokes the way growing up under the microscope can warp human interaction.
Why Is My Mom So Obsessed With Our Obsession With Celebrities?
Julie Klam's teenage daughter sits down with the writer to discuss her new book about our culture's love affair with famous people. Which may or may not be cool.
How Did Fake Writer JT LeRoy Draw Real Devotees?
Author Laura Albert famously pulled off a decade-long literary hoax by inventing an endearing, abused Appalachian hustler ingénue—revealing the way we build brands on suffering.
These Women Need Us to Remember What Bill Cosby Did to Them
For over four decades, America’s favorite TV dad allegedly assaulted at least 46 women. This week, 35 of them summoned the courage to reveal themselves in 'New York.' Believe it.
I’m the Other Amanda P.
The writer shared only a name with Amanda Peterson when they attended the same high school. But the actress’s untimely death has inspired a new reflection on that dark and desperate year.
Don’t Tell Me What to Wear
Every day women are shamed and belittled for the way they present themselves. These 7 most recent and egregious condemnations will make your blood boil.
How Brave Is Bruce Jenner?
The Olympic gold medalist turned reality star has come out as transgender. Just in time to promote a new reality show.