Media, Celebrities, and Social Influence: Identification With Elvis Presley

Abstract

The extensive reach of popular culture through global communication systems has given rise to the international celebrity. This study provides insight into the powerful influence that celebrities can have on those who identify closely with their mediated images. An ethnographic study was conducted of 35 Elvis Presley fans, including in-depth interviews of more than 2 dozen popular Elvis impersonators representing a broad demographic of this population. Results indicate that Elvis fans and impersonators develop strong identification with him by consciously role modeling his values and by changing their own lifestyles to emulate him. Based on these findings, we present some formative ideas for developing a theory of celebrity identification. We also discuss important implications of identification with celebrities and present suggestions for future research on accessing their mediated social influence.