As the world of entertainment adapts to the digital age, actors are increasingly turning to digital platforms to promote their brand, connect with fans and further their careers. In particular, Hollywood’s stars are leveraging popular digital platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to boost their visibility, create a larger fanbase, and expand opportunities within the industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at how some of Hollywood’s biggest stars are using digital platforms to further their careers.
YouTube
On YouTube, the latest trend among Hollywood stars is creating channels and posting celebrity-centric content. For example, actor Neil Patrick Harris opened his own variety show on the platform, aptly named “Neil’s Variety Show.” Additionally, A-listers like Chris Pratt, DJ Khaled, and Will Smith have also created YouTube channels to release exclusive content, interview other celebrities, and share backstories of their movies and projects.
Though garnering millions of views is certainly beneficial, top actors and influencers have also leveraged YouTube to promote upcoming projects or inspire their fanbases to take action on an issue. For example, Brad Pitt launched his own channel on the platform, which featured a special video advocating for an increase in US participation in the 2020 census.
YouTube also allows Hollywood stars to directly monetize off of their content, thus providing a supplement to smaller roles or projects in development. For example, YouTube star Logan Paul, who is also an actor, gained notoriety for his comedic vlogs. His channel brings in millions of views and has resulted in his involvement in feature films, creating endorsement deals, and other such ventures.
Twitter is one of the oldest and most popular digital platforms for Hollywood stars. Many of the top actors use the platform to share sneak peeks of upcoming projects, musings on their current career, and personal photos.
By having a strong Twitter presence, actors can spread their message far and wide, increasing the potential reach of their projects. Additionally, since Twitter allows for a great degree of interaction, stars can engage with their fans and show that they appreciate their support.
Recently, celebrities have begun to use the “trending moments” feature to make their content more visible. For example, when actor Tom Hanks posted a photo of himself portraying his character in the movie “Inferno,” it instantly trended, leading to near-instantaneous exposure.
Instagram & Tik Tok
Instagram and TikTok are two of the most popular digital platforms in Hollywood. On Instagram, stars are posting glamorous photos, promoting projects, and even inspiring their fans with fashion advice, home remedies, and more.
TikTok likewise allows stars to showcase their talents, by posting videos that feature singing, skits, and more. Some stars have gone viral thanks to posting skits and lip-sync videos, such as Charli D’Amelio, who is the only star to reach 100 million followers on the platform.
Like Twitter, celebrities can make use of Instagram’s and TikTok’s “trending” features to make their post a visible as possible. Additionally, both platforms also allow celebs to directly monetize their content, either through brand collaborations or through the sale of merchandise.
Conclusion
The digital age has allowed Hollywood stars to showcase their talents and reach fans across the globe. By utilizing the various digital platforms available, actors can expand the reach of their projects, grow their fanbase, and even monetize directly from the content they create.
The best part is, celebrities don’t have to be a YouTube sensation or trend on TikTok to make it in the entertainment industry. All it takes is a few strategic steps, a commitment to building a solid brand, and the willingness to engage with your fans.
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