We, the United States of America, are obsessed with celebrities. Their faces devour magazine stands, their personal lives become our conversation starters, and we cling on to their every word, becoming engulfed in their rhetoric like they are some sort of walking god. America’s borderline stalker like obsession with celebrities has resulted in every media outlet shelling out story after story about their daily routines, relationships, maternal matters, religious beliefs, even their personal political views. A Hollywood star’s enigmatic aura has captured many so profoundly that it has catapulted a new trend of media spotlighting. They now have center stage to talk about their views on the war, third world countries, how this country is run, and who is at the helm. Since when did the guy that played “Spiccoli” in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” become a political expert? Just because “The Terminator” got a seat in office doesn’t mean that every person captured on film is a Governor now, does it?

In hindsight, since youth these days seem to be hypnotized by anyone with a recognizable face-- copying their style, mannerisms, and values—maybe it is a good thing that celebrities are at least making people more aware of the issues that they might have ignored the first time around. My fifteen year old sister had a week long discussion in her Government class about our current global issues and it wasn’t the passionate lectures that her teacher gave her that stuck inside her impressionable brain—it was a small article in a celebrity laced magazine that revved her up. Screw what Mr. Johnson said, Gwyneth Paltrow named her son “Apple” and she knows all.

Despite these Hollywood stars being questionable sources in some people’s minds, at least they are sparking interest in many people that originally wouldn’t have given an ear. If it takes last years Academy Award winner for best actor to stir up thought in America, to make them aware of important political issues, then so be it. If it takes Bono or Puff Daddy to motivate our country’s future to “Rock their Vote” whatever it maybe—at least they are listening and getting more involved in their rights as an American citizen. Of course you will get the power tripping celebrity who uses his or her pedestal as a stool for wild propaganda and ridiculous ideas but for the most part the majorities of media spotlighted individuals use their popularity for a respectful cause.

Sometimes I shudder at America’s obsession with the Hollywood world. I don’t think I will ever understand movie star mania. However, if it takes a film icon, a highly touted rock star, or a television face to raise political awareness all over the U.S.A. and especially in our apathetic youth—I am all for it. Hell, it’s better than hearing about Brad and Angelina’s baby or what new alien friend Tom Cruise made. You got to love freedom of speech!