The recent trend of celebrity look-alike contests has taken the internet by storm, with people across the globe gathering to honor their favorite stars.
From the Timothée Chalamet contest in New York City that kicked off the trend, to the subsequent Paul Mescal event in Dublin, the Harry Styles gathering in London, and the Jeremy Allen White competition in Chicago, these lighthearted events have become the surprise sensation of 2024.
People have been flocking to compete for the coveted titles, cash prizes, and bragging rights of strikingly resembling their favorite celebrities.
This trend has expanded beyond traditional Hollywood heartthrobs, with look-alike contests celebrating figures like Zendaya, Rachel Sennott, and former president John F. Kennedy.
However, the question arises: what’s driving this sudden surge in popularity?
Beyond the thrill of dressing up and competing, these events also tap into people’s innate desire for community and shared experience. Attendees bond over their shared admiration for the celebrity being honored. The contests allow people to unite with like-minded fans and celebrate their mutual fandom in a celebratory, inclusive environment.
Junior Gabriana Bravo expresses, “It’s funny to see discourse about it on social media, like when people don’t think the winner was good enough. The content is pretty funny.
Although the lookalike contests exist with no harmful intent, there is a possibility that they could present controversy or dangerous situations.
The contests have come to an unexpected extreme, with people dressing up to mimic suspected criminals. Following the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City, video surveillance quickly revealed a man, Luigi Mangione, disguised in a dark hoodie and a face covering.
On December 7th, many NYC citizens gathered to attempt to replicate the suspect in a look-alike contest for a small prize. At the time, the suspect was yet to be caught, making the event humorous, while others grew fearful over the possibility that the assassin was hiding in the crowd.
However, none of the contests have been actual threats, making it appear that the competitions will solely bring humor to society.
Sophomore Sunayana Javvaji voices, “I think we should have a charter look-alike contest.” As long as there are people eager to dress up as their celebrity crushes and compete for the chance to be crowned the most convincing look-alike, the trend is likely to keep going strong.
