Richard Dyer's Star Theory. For A2 Media

1. Richard Dyer’s Star TheoryRichard Dyer’s Star Theory
-Naomi Kirk-Muir

2. A star is a CONSTRUCTION
• The star is sculpted by the media, magazines and the record label,
they aren’t a real person.
• The star has constructed an image for themselves.
• Performers like Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus may be flamboyant and a
certain way on the screen, but in private they could be completely
different.

3. A star is a COMMODITY
• A star is used to sell records, merchandise and concert tickets.
• A star is relatable so people are more inclined to buy things
associated with the star.

4. A star is an IDEOLOGY
• The star represents a specific group of people, so they will have a
message that relates to the group.
• People look up to the star, so they may replicate the actions of the
star.
• This means the star must be relatable, yet aspirational.

5. The PARADOX of the star
• The star must be ordinary, yet extraordinary.
• The star must be both present and absent.