Hollywood is notorious for being obsessed with celebrities that appear to never age. Readers cannot go through an issue of any fashion related magazine without being bombarded by people who are physically fit, fashion forward and have flawless skin and make-up.
Nowadays, many of those celebrities are actually significantly older than the way they look or act. The appearances of stars like Demi Moore, Jennifer Aniston and George Clooney can rival that of the younger Hollywood newcomers. Reality television star Kris Jenner has been seen out partying with daughters Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian. It may be a comforting thought to know that getting older does not necessarily mean an end to the fun and carefree lifestyle of “20-somethings.’ The hit ABC show “Cougar Town” proudly declares that 40 really is the new 20, but is that actually a good image to portray?
Although many middle-aged celebrities look younger now than they did at the beginning of their careers, a lot of that can be credited to cosmetic surgeries, enhanced and airbrushed photos and expensive anti-aging products. This may give the average person something to strive toward, but it can also have negative effects on their self-esteem if they cannot reach that level of “perfection.”
Body image issues are mainly associated with teen girls who want to imitate their favorite stars, but this type of behavior can be seen in adults too. Preoccupation with body image resulting, in lower self-image and the development of eating disorders is a problem among adults in their 40s and 50s as well. If the media praises those celebrities who look much younger than they really are, regular, everyday people will feel like they need to reach those unreal expectations to have worth in society.
Another problem with the “40 is the new 20” mentality is that our parents’ generation is invading on our young adult culture. Some of them are requesting their kids as friends on Facebook, using text messages to communicate with them and are even wanting to dress the same way. Working in retail, I have seen women in their 50s buying miniskirts, halter tops and graphic T-shirts in an effort to retain their youth. It makes it difficult for us as young adults to break away from our parents when they insist on behaving as we do.
While I’m not saying that our parents’ generation has to give up having fun in favor of a less exciting and more “age appropriate” way of life, it’s just that they shouldn’t become obsessed with trying to stay hip. They have already experienced their 20s and now it is our turn to be young.
Jenny Prokop, Assistant Opinions Editor
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