Who was a famous name when you were growing up that young people today wouldn't have heard of?

[georgina]

I 100% get what you’re saying but I’d bet that most people on these boards would have a hard time naming and recognizing stars from current day. If we want them to remember the past, I think it’s only fair that we learn the now.

I agree many people don't know today's 'stars'. I'm 61 and really don't care about current celebrities, but I also don't care that my adult kids don't know past stars. For the most part they are irrelevant, unless they have made other contributions, such as philanthropy, advancing social justice, etc. My kids are pretty knowledgeable about history and keep up with current news.

 

[wabbott]

Bart Starr

 

[KVH]

I 100% get what you’re saying but I’d bet that most people on these boards would have a hard time naming and recognizing stars from current day. If we want them to remember the past, I think it’s only fair that we learn the now.

Totally agree. It's a two-way street. The difference I think is that, in the past, you really had to "be" someone to be a celebrity. If Gary Cooper, or The Duke, or Marilyn walked down the street, anyone at that time would recognize them. Today, a celebrity can be pretty much anyone from online who is notorious. Especially with the advent of online presence. As opposed to actually having accomplished something. Years ago, extras my be added to a war movie just to get shot and see them fall. If lucky, they had one line. And then went back to their job at the hardware store. Today, they wonder why they're not the next Richard Burton.

I blame superhero movies . . .

 

[KVH]

Bart Starr

Billy Johnson

 

[cleverclovers]

Howard Cosell

 

[karmic]

Art Linkletter

 

[KVH]

Charo

 

[Cogswel_Cogs]

Ed Koch

 

[mylilnikita]

Lawrence Welk
Engelbert Humperdink

 

[prairie_girl]

I agree many people don't know today's 'stars'. I'm 61 and really don't care about current celebrities, but I also don't care that my adult kids don't know past stars. For the most part they are irrelevant, unless they have made other contributions, such as philanthropy, advancing social justice, etc.

Totally agree. It's a two-way street. The difference I think is that, in the past, you really had to "be" someone to be a celebrity. If Gary Cooper, or The Duke, or Marilyn walked down the street, anyone at that time would recognize them. Today, a celebrity can be pretty much anyone from online who is notorious. Especially with the advent of online presence. As opposed to actually having accomplished something. Years ago, extras my be added to a war movie just to get shot and see them fall. If lucky, they had one line. And then went back to their job at the hardware store. Today, they wonder why they're not the next Richard Burton.

I blame superhero movies . . .

That’s a very good point.