Jenna Ortega and Winona Ryder are currently newsworthy themselves as they share the screen in the highly anticipated sequel, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” Ortega, at 23, is representative of a new generation of actors. Collectively, they are reshaping the dynamics of celebrity culture in exciting and innovative ways. Ryder, now 54, is a representation of the old guard of Hollywood. Together, their collaboration serves as a testament to the generational change in public figures’ relationship with mainstream media and their supporters.
Ortega’s assertiveness was on full display just a few weeks ago. She even took Simon Cowell’s famous phrase, “It’s a no from me,” and flipped that too on “IT Girl.” This red line became inextricably linked to Cowell’s caustic judgments on “American Idol.” Now, Ortega flips this on its head to put the focus on her strong opposition to harmful and invasive media practices.
In a parallel development, Sydney Chandler, another rising star known for her role in the recent TV series “Alien: Earth,” has made headlines for her refusal to partake in a video interview for Variety magazine. Chandler justified her decision with the statement, “I’m just a private person.” She elaborated on the distance she’s finding it more difficult to create between her public and private self.
The changing landscape of celebrity interactions became even more evident when Millie Bobby Brown confronted a photographer during a red carpet event. This created the backdrop for an era rife with culture wars. Among them were upskirting legislation and the ugly illustrations of then-celebrity gossip columnist Perez Hilton, who was famous for drawing unflattering cartoons on pictures of celebs. Hilary Duff courageously spoke out on the harmful and invasive nature of paparazzi culture. She explained that the reality of having humiliating photos of you taken while you’re forced to smile for the shutterbugs is all part of being a star.
Younger actresses like Ortega and Chandler are at the forefront of a movement that’s pushing back against these tired traditions. They are making it clear that they will not take any nonsense, and they’re changing the game on the Hollywood/paparazzi love affair. Their activities demonstrate that they are just not going to play by the rules that older generations might want to impose on them.
The infrastructure of old Hollywood, which has too often put image before individual agency, is on the cusp of great change. The older stars certainly didn’t expect younger celebrities to have the strength to stand their ground so firmly. This change is indicative of a larger cultural shift in how society is beginning to view privacy and consent.