Celebrities face scrutiny over activism effectiveness post-'Imagine'

Five years ago, Gal Gadot shared a video featuring celebrities singing John Lennon's "Imagine" during the early days of the pandemic. The video was meant to convey unity and hope. However, it was widely criticized for being tone-deaf and self-indulgent, especially given the severe struggles many were facing at that time. In the video, Gadot begins by expressing her philosophical thoughts after days of self-quarantine. She refers to an Italian man singing on his balcony, saying, “Doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from, we’re all in this together.” Celebrities like Zoe Kravitz and Mark Ruffalo join in, but the performance felt out of touch for many viewers. Despite some singers showcasing their talent, the video does not age well. The piece reflects a shift in how celebrities are perceived. In the past, their social media presence was often celebrated. However, the release of the "Imagine" video marked a turning point. The following months saw increased scrutiny of celebrity activism. Critics pointed out that simple posts, like black squares in support of Black Lives Matter, lacked real substance. Over the past five years, many celebrities have remained silent about important issues. A further decline in public trust for Hollywood has emerged, especially with parents and the media. This silence is seen as a response to fear of being ridiculed, as prominent figures struggle to find their voice in a complex world. While it may be a relief that celebrities are becoming more aware of their impact, there is also a sense of nostalgia for the times when they at least seemed to care about societal issues.