Fairclough, K., 2025.

Celebrity culture and ageing

Since the publication of the previous issue of this book, there has been an increase in scholarly and critical engagement with celebrity culture and ageing narratives. From Jerslev and NyboPetersen's work on ageing celebrities and ageing fans (2018) to Jermyn's work on ageing female stars and no make-up photography (2021), the surge in interest in the field is indicative of broader cultural shifts and the ever-evolving dynamics of media representation. In this chapter I explore the factors contributing to this interest in academic focus, the key themes and issues being addressed and the implications for our understanding of both celebrity culture and the ageing process. And go on to explore the intersection of ageing and female celebrity, examining how ageing female celebrities are portrayed in the media, the impact on their careers, and the broader societal implications. By understanding these dynamics, we can gain insights into the cultural constructs of age and gender, and the pressures faced by women in the spotlight.