Over these past few weeks, many Americans have been shut up in their homes with the anxiety of unemployment, loss of resources (toilet paper included) and the fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus. This has been something that has not only plagued Americans, but everyone around the world. Across Europe, people are clapping from their balconies to show their appreciation toward healthcare workers. Citizens are hosting miniature concerts from their balconies as a way to quell tensions in such a tumultuous time. All these great acts of kindness and solidarity has, of course, led to celebrities partaking in their own acts of unity; only this time, to comedic effect.
Back in March, actress Gal Gadot recruited major stars in the world of Hollywood to sing a cringe-filled rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine.” The Twitter-verse had a field day. One user said, “Gal Gadot and the rich trying to be relatable. No one want to hear it, just donate and go.” While Gadot had the greatest of intentions, it came off as vain.It doesn’t help when the first lyric is “Imagine there is no heaven…” as people are losing their livelihoods.
Furthermore, Madonna posted a video on social media of her completely naked in a bathtub full of rose petals. In the video, Madonna calls the coronavirus “the great equalizer.” Additionally, actress Vanessa Hudgens posted an Instagram Live video downplaying the virus all because Coachella was canceled. Much of the public has only become annoyed and outraged with how celebrities are handling this crisis. It has not helped that celebrities that are diagnosed with COVID-19 are given easy access to test kits compared to the average American. Celebrities are tested even if they do not show COVID-19 symptoms. This goes to show that while much of this virus did not create greater inequality among celebrities and everyday people, it definitely highlighted it to greater effect. Though much of Hollywood has been facing major backlash, there have been a few celebrities that have hit the mark. Actor John Krasinski has used this time to create his YouTube series Some Good News. In his videos, he brings together celebrities to help highlight positive stories during this dark time. In his latest episode, he brought together the original cast of Broadway’s smash hit Hamilton to surprise a nine-year-old fan. Krasinski’s series works because he doesn’t do it for vanity or to state a personal, political viewpoint. He seems as if he just wants to bring happiness to many of us that are in the dark on what the future holds. Other celebrities have also donated their paychecks or resources to aid in the pandemic. Rappers Jay-Z and Meek Mill donated 130,000 surgical masks to correctional facilities. While Hollywood may have the occasional slip up, some do step up to the plate. Comment below, what other celebrities are bringing change during this quarantine?