Richard Dyer argues that there are two paradoxes regarding celebrities or 'stars'. First, stars are both ordinary and extraordinary - they engage in normal daily activities that make them seem relatable, but also possess extraordinary talents that make them unique. Second, stars are both present and absent - they are constantly discussed and their presence felt, but they remain ultimately unreachable and not truly part of our lives.

1. Richard Dyer, a media theorist, believes when
it comes to celebrities or 'stars' there are
two paradoxes (contradictions) about them.

2. Stars are ordinary and
extraordinary
Ordinary
• Stars can be seen as
ordinary through the daily
activities they take part in,
(e.g. spending time with
friends) which makes
them relatable to their
fans and the public.
Extraordinary
• But, stars also posses an
extraordinary quality,
which makes them
different to everyone else.
For example
their amazing voice or
acting skills.

3. Present
• A star is present in our
lives through the way we
talk about them socially,
follow them and discuss
them on social media and
even try to be like them.
Absent
• But a star is also out of
reach (absent) and not
actually in our lives.
Stars are both present and absent