Internet Celebrity: Understanding Fame Online

by Crystal Abidin

The face of internet celebrity is rapidly diversifying and evolving. Online and mainstream celebrity culture are now weaving together, such that breakout stars from one-hit viral videos are able to turn their transient fame into a full-time career.  
This book presents a framework for thinking about the different forms of internet celebrity that have emerged over the last decade, taking examples from the Global North and South, to consolidate key ideas about cultures of online fame. It discusses the overall landscape, developments and trends in the internet celebrity economy, and cross-cultural lessons.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sociology, Criticism, Internet

192 pages, Paperback

Published July 16, 2018

Reviews

[John William · Rating 4 out of 5]

An internet celebrity can be seen as a modern form of public figure whose influence grows through social platforms rather than traditional media, and their impact may feel both powerful and unpredictable, sometimes visible in figures discussed widely, even accounts such as catturd on twitter . Their popularity often seems connected to relatability, constant interaction, and content that fits fast-moving trends, which can create a strong sense of closeness with audiences. At the same time, the attention they receive might bring pressure, scrutiny, and changing public opinion, so their online image could shift quickly depending on reactions and discussions. The appeal of an internet celebrity may lie in how accessible and real they appear, yet the digital spotlight sometimes makes their life seem more curated than it actually is. Overall, the presence of internet celebrities might reflect how communication, fame, and community are evolving in the online era, where influence can rise from ordinary beginnings and continue growing through engagement and visibility.

[Zachary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crystal Abidin is one of the premiere scholars of internet celebrity and social media influencers today, and in this brief volume she provides a surprisingly comprehensive and accessible introduction to that subfield. With great examples and succinct summaries of key scholarly works in the history and development of internet celebrity studies, Abidin gives a useful glimpse into the development of the field alongside speculation about its future directions. As someone who is also studying particular kinds of celebrity on social media, this little book is invaluable. It was also an added bonus that the book was short and direct, mincing no words and wasting no time in making its point and demonstrating its importance.

[uwievelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Academic, based on research, written in popular style, easy English.

[Rebecca]

I've heard Crystal Abidin speak before and she is a very good speaker with a lot of interesting insights. Unfortunately, this book read a bit like a textbook and the writing is very dry.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick, clear, and easy read on celebrity. I thought the author could have gone more in depth in some areas, and perhaps covered more facets of the topic but it was a great read.