Celebrity Lookalike Contests Are Rising Online, But They’re Not New

Celebrity lookalike contests are becoming increasingly popular on the internet, but the trend is not new. These contests have long captured the public's interest, with people showing off their resemblance to famous figures. The rise of social media platforms has helped amplify these contests, bringing them into the spotlight again, even though they've existed in various forms for many years.

In German folklore, doppelgängers are believed to be harbingers of bad luck, their presence often linked to misfortune. This belief seems increasingly relevant today, as celebrity lookalike contests rise in popularity amidst the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical turmoil, climate crises, and economic instability.

The trend began with actor Timothée Chalamet in October when hundreds gathered at Washington Square Park to watch several 20-somethings compete for the title of his unofficial doppelgänger. Organized by YouTuber Anthony Po, the event saw arrests and a $500 fine, but also included a surprise appearance by the Oscar-nominated actor. "It was insane," said Reed Putman, one of the contestants. "People were flooding (around you), recording, taking photos, or asking quick questions."

From there, the contests rapidly spread. In Ireland, men dressed in 5-inch shorts, similar to those worn by Paul Mescal, competed for a €20 prize. The competition was so popular it was replicated at a London pub. Subsequently, men in blouses and pearls assembled in London's Soho Square to vie for the title of best Harry Styles lookalike. The search for doppelgängers of Dev Patel in San Francisco and Zayn Malik in New York followed, and just last month, the Jeremy Allen White lookalike contest took place in Chicago, with participants channeling the actor’s iconic look from "The Bear."

Social media has fueled the rapid spread of these contests, with new ones appearing each week, often offering a small cash prize or celebrity-related items. For instance, White's contest winner received a pack of Marlboro Reds, while Zendaya's lookalike contest in Oakland featured a bottle of shampoo and conditioner from a brand she uses. These contests are particularly popular among Gen Z and Millennial audiences, who eagerly share them online. However, the concept of celebrity lookalike competitions is not new.

Charlie Chaplin Jr. recounted that his famous father entered and placed third in a lookalike competition at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood between 1915 and 1921. Dolly Parton also mentioned participating in one, at a gay bar in Santa Monica, although she didn’t win. The 1930s saw Shirley Temple lookalike contests, including one in Sydney in 1934, and another at the Cleveland Food Show in 1935 with over 900 children. For decades, Key West, Florida has hosted an annual Ernest Hemingway lookalike contest.

British sociologist Ellis Cashmore suggests that these contests reflect a broader societal shift. "I think they capture something we believe in the 21st century... that biology isn’t destiny," Cashmore said. He believes these contests signify that people can be whatever they want to be, emphasizing the malleability of identity. The events also offer a chance for individuals to form connections with others who share an interest in celebrity culture.

Andy Harmer, a professional David Beckham lookalike, posits that humans are inherently drawn to symmetry. He draws parallels to nature, noting that stick insects use their resemblance to survive, and some flowers mimic bees to encourage pollination. Harmer’s career as Beckham’s double, however, has not always been easy. He recalls facing backlash and threats during Beckham's controversial 1998 World Cup incident.

The idea that everyone has a doppelgänger is backed by research, with Dr. Manel Esteller from the University of Barcelona pointing out that identical twins have over 90% genetic similarity, but even non-relatives can share striking resemblances. A 2022 study published in Cell Reports found that lookalikes without familial ties can still share genetic traits.

For those fortunate enough to resemble a celebrity, being a lookalike can be a lucrative career. Harmer has supported himself for 20 years by impersonating Beckham, and Denise Ohnona, a Kate Moss lookalike, has walked Paris Fashion Week runways. Harmer advises aspiring lookalikes to view their resemblance as a form of "fancy dress" and not let it define them too much. For the victorious lookalikes, he offers practical advice: "Contact me, because I can turn your looks into money."

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com‍

Source: cnn‍