Are you scrolling through your phone right now on TikTok, Instagram, or other apps? Yeah, I thought so. The rise of celebrities is rising in the social media influencer world. So that brings us to the debate: are influencers replacing traditional stars, or are people craving more privacy and mystery?

GenZs—We're living in a time when celebrities are noted for their work—music, movies, modeling, etc. However, we're also living in a time when celebrities are also being noticed for their social media influencer platforms. Particularly TikTok.  

Several influencers are gaining popularity through their millions of social media followers, such as Gabrielle Moura, Brooke Monk, Nessa Barrett, Chase Hudson, and any Hype House members from 2019. Ironically, 75% of these TikToks are now producing music or modeling outside of TikTok. So, does that mean TikTok helps one become a dominant celebrity now? It may be due to the close relationship fans feel they have with their TikTok influencers. 

After all, being an influencer involves a lot of personal life, with privacy limited and open to the public. The only inclusion is how much or how little to put out online. Some find it exhilarating, while others think it invades their privacy. 

So here we are in the debate. Are influencers replacing traditional stars? Let's look at celebrities who have visited New York City lately. Jacob Elordi has been spotted on TikTok walking past many fans in Greenwich Village. Jacob, minding his own business and really only sharing his presence online through his work in Hollywood, still draws fans who are attached to him because of the fame he has gained over the years of acting. 

I would pay less attention to Jacob than to a TikTok influencer. Sometimes, privacy is cherished and cravable. People are attracted to the unknown. The mysteries one possesses. Is it always interesting when you know the answer to everything, such as in some influencers' platforms, filming the "spend a day in the life with me," "travel with me," or "what I eat in a day"

Celebrities, unlike influencers, are meant to entertain audiences. They are intended to stand for something. Whether it's films, modeling, mental health awareness, music, or gender inclusivity, Gen Z expects their role models to use their platforms for good. Values draw fans.

Similarly, these celebrities often possess a level of mystery. The mystery one holds triggers a dopamine rush when a secret is revealed to the public, making the individual appear more attractive and exciting. The bits of information to an individual are considered sacred, creating this exclusivity. As fans, we're more likely to remember these bits of information when there aren't enough of them.

Depending on what kind of fan you are, it might retaliate in the debate. However, privacy is still the most desirable. There's a reason a celebrity is a celebrity without needing to put themselves online consistently. If someone is filming you on TikTok, it may even justify the level of fame you have.