Date of Award
Spring 2020
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Media & Communication; College of Arts & Sciences
First Advisor
Lisa Holderman
Second Advisor
Alan Powell
Third Advisor
Michael Dwyer
Abstract
Richard Dyer’s Stars and general studies analyze the unusual phenomena surrounding influential film stars and their unmitigated power to compel and amaze those outside of the spotlight. His studies separate the theory into three intermingling parts: stars as a social phenomenon, stars as images, and stars as signs. There are many components in Dyer’s studies that can be extracted and used in analyses of particular actors and actresses. However, this does not solely revolve around film stars. In this analysis, I will be examining the famous pop music icon and recent actress, Lady Gaga. Through an analysis of her style, consumption, social interaction, and many personas, I will be expanding on Dyer’s theory of celebrity/stardom and Horton’s and Wohl’s theory of parasocial interaction and relationships. My goal is to show, through her experiences and transformations, the inner-workings of stardom, and the pressure it places not only on the stars themselves, but also on the public, who look for advice and attention from those they place on pedestals.
Recommended Citation
Lee, Allora R., "Richard Dyer's Star Theory Applied to Musician/Actress: Lady Gaga" (2020). Capstone Showcase. 7.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2020/media_communication/7
Included in
Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Other Music Commons, Public Relations and Advertising Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons, Social Media Commons
Richard Dyer's Star Theory Applied to Musician/Actress: Lady Gaga
Richard Dyer’s Stars and general studies analyze the unusual phenomena surrounding influential film stars and their unmitigated power to compel and amaze those outside of the spotlight. His studies separate the theory into three intermingling parts: stars as a social phenomenon, stars as images, and stars as signs. There are many components in Dyer’s studies that can be extracted and used in analyses of particular actors and actresses. However, this does not solely revolve around film stars. In this analysis, I will be examining the famous pop music icon and recent actress, Lady Gaga. Through an analysis of her style, consumption, social interaction, and many personas, I will be expanding on Dyer’s theory of celebrity/stardom and Horton’s and Wohl’s theory of parasocial interaction and relationships. My goal is to show, through her experiences and transformations, the inner-workings of stardom, and the pressure it places not only on the stars themselves, but also on the public, who look for advice and attention from those they place on pedestals.