Natalia Pruklang

Tag: Hollywood

  • Influencers are Taking Over Hollywood

    Influencers are Taking Over Hollywood

    The past three weeks we’ve talked about all the different ways social media has managed to impact the entertainment industry. But, we’ve yet to talk about one of the most impactful ways social media has on fame and how anyone ordinary can be a star. 

    Once upon a time, breaking into Hollywood required endless auditions, the right connections, and a bit of luck. Now? You just need a phone, Wi-Fi, and one viral video. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are transforming ordinary creators into global celebrities—rewriting the blueprint for fame and shaking up the entertainment industry in the process.

    Social Media Stars Turned Celebs 

    Names like Charli D’Amelio, Alix Earle, Addison Rae used to mean nothing to me and you just mere five years ago, and now they are considered the mascots of our generation’s influencers. Influencers are no longer confined to their platforms. They’re headlining movies, topping music charts, and even walking the Met Gala carpet. Charli D’Amelio went from posting TikTok dances in her bedroom to starring in a Hulu reality series, The D’Amelio Show. Addison Rae made the leap to Netflix, landing the lead role in He’s All That, while Alix Earle just starred in five different Super Bowl commercials. 

    This shift is blurring the lines between traditional celebrities and internet personalities. Fans don’t just watch these creators, they feel like they know them. These fans watched those TikTokers’ journey to fame–every single step. This authenticity is what makes social media stars so powerful. They build fan bases rooted in personal connection. People see themselves in them because they started off as regular people like us. 

    Why Hollywood Is Paying Attention

    Entertainment companies are realizing that bringing social media stars into mainstream projects means bringing their fan bases too. When Addison Rae’s movie debuted, it wasn’t just Netflix subscribers tuning in; it was her 88 million TikTok followers showing up to support her. And movie star is not the only Hollywood title Addison Rae holds. She is also an artist, with 12.2 million monthly listeners. 

    This crossover between ordinary and industry also influences marketing strategies. Studios now regularly collaborate with influencers to promote new releases, tapping into their reach and relatability. Instead of relying solely on trailers and billboards, campaigns often feature creators making funny skits or posting behind-the-scenes content on TikTok. This format resonates more with Gen Z audiences. 

    And yes, there are downsides to influencers entering Hollywood, but I chose to highlight influencers in a positive way because I think we can appreciate a rags to riches story that we all wish can happen to ourselves.

  • The Power of Hollywood in Crisis: LA Wildfire Relief from The Entertainment Industry

    The Power of Hollywood in Crisis: LA Wildfire Relief from The Entertainment Industry

    The Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) has been a pivotal force in using Hollywood’s star power to support charitable causes since 1942. Founded by legendary Hollywood stars Samuel Goldwyn, Humphrey Bogart, Joan Crawford, James Cagney, and the Warner brothers, EIF works tirelessly to address the needs of communities through the influence and power of the entertainment industry. Some of their programs like Hunger Is led by ambassador Viola Davis, Stand Up To Cancer, the EIF Careers Program, and Defy:Disaster all hope to create a bigger impact to individuals and communities in need.

    Mission and Core Services

    The Entertainment Industry Foundation’s mission is to mobilize the entertainment industry’s creative talents and voices to help others by funding initiatives that address health, disaster, and education. EIF’s Defy:Disaster program is designed to provide immediate disaster relief and long-term recovery to communities struck by natural disasters. Whether it’s through financial support, supplies, or volunteer efforts, EIF leverages its vast network of entertainment professionals to create a quick, organized response in the face of crises.

    A Closer Look at Defy:Disaster’s help during the LA WildFires

    The LA fires devastated everyone, leaving hundreds of California residents without homes and struggling in the aftermath. Several members of Hollywood also struggled, Paris Hilton’s home also being lost to the fires. In these times of great need, Defy:Disaster has been activated to provide immediate support from shelter, evacuation support, reconnection, food, and health care to long-term support of rebuilding homes, income recovery, and mental health. The program is also seeking donations to help support firefighters and first responders. 

    During the 2023 Maui fires, EIF also stepped in and mobilized local and national resources, working with Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson to raise over $60 million for the Maui people. 

    Social Media Presence 

    One of the key elements of EIF’s effectiveness in the LA wildfires responses was their strategic use of social media. Through Instagram, Facebook, and X (formally Twitter), EIF was able to spread awareness about the wildfire and rally donors and fans from around the globe. The EIF was mentioned on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, sharing a link on its socials on where to donate. The foundation also posted regular updates about how funds were being allocated to affected families, encouraging continued support. 

    EIF’s communication strategy isn’t just about fundraising; it’s about humanizing the impact of these disasters and showing how each donation directly helps those in need. By posting video messages from volunteers and affected individuals, EIF created a narrative that made the crisis feel personal and immediate, inspiring action in a way that only the entertainment industry can. 

    Effectiveness 

    In my opinion, EIF’s response to the LA wildfires through Defy:Disaster was not only effective but also a beautiful example of what happens when the entertainment industry comes together for a cause. Their ability to quickly gather resources, engage their audience on social media, and coordinate relief efforts shows that EIF has mastered the art of crisis management in the nonprofit space.

    This program highlights the crossover of entertainment and social good, demonstrating how nonprofits can make a difference when they harness their networks and platforms. The success of Defy:Disaster in response to the LA wildfires offers a blueprint for other organizations looking to drive meaningful change during times of crisis.

    For more information on Defy:Disaster and how you can help, visit https://www.eifoundation.org/eif-programs/defy-disaster/?form=FUNLDDMZGLN.