Public relations; engineering public faces
In Hollywood, image is more important than reality. A scandal, a controversy, or even a lawsuit can change the course of an actor's career. That's why the public relations industry in Hollywood is one of the most complex and influential power networks in the world. Public relations companies and crisis managers play the role of judge and jury; they can erase a face from the scene or turn a despised character into a flawless hero.
For example, in the 1950s, when Elizabeth Taylor faced intense public backlash after her affair with Eddie Fisher (Debbie Reynolds' husband), public relations managers tried to create an image of her as "innocent and a victim of love." Soon after, she appeared in romantic films and quickly regained public acceptance.
Machine of elimination and news control
In the world of cinema, nothing is ever leaked to the media by accident. Every revelation is managed, and behind every rumor, an invisible player is present. The media that feed on Hollywood are dependent on the controlled flow of information for their survival. When news about a movie star is released, it often means that a group in the background has decided it's the right time to publish it.
A striking example of this is the Harvey Weinstein scandal. For years, rumors about him had been circulating, but no media outlet dared to publish the information. Finally, journalists from The New York Times and The New Yorker, with the support of powerful figures like Ronan Farrow, uncovered the story. However, it's interesting to note that many actors and filmmakers remained silent until Weinstein was destroyed in the media; this is a sign that the Hollywood crisis management machine only fails when it's no longer possible to rebuild a person's image.
Power of social networks; a changed equation
The advent of social networks has altered this equation. Now, actors and artists can directly connect with their fans. This development poses a threat to the traditional Hollywood public relations system, as control over the narrative has slipped out of the hands of behind-the-scenes entities. However, the main players, crisis managers, and media advisors, are still trying to manipulate this new space to their advantage.
The Amber Heard and Johnny Depp case is an example of this shift in the power equation. Initially, traditional media tried to tarnish Depp's image and portray Heard as a victim, but the intense pressure from social media users changed the narrative. Ultimately, the court and public opinion shifted in Depp's favor, demonstrating that Hollywood's media control is no longer one-sided.
Silence, best strategy in a crisis
In today's landscape, dealing with scandals has become more complex. Traditional crisis management methods are no longer effective. Hollywood crisis managers now resort to the strategy of "targeted silence" more than ever. Sometimes, the best way to control a crisis is to ignore it. Many high-profile cases fade away from collective memory when celebrities refrain from reacting.
Brad Pitt, after Angelina Jolie's allegations of misconduct on a flight, showed little direct reaction. His public relations team took control of the narrative by releasing brief statements. As a result, the issue gradually faded from public attention, and Pitt continues to be involved in significant projects.
Hollywood; A game where there's always a winner
Although actors and celebrities are under media scrutiny, the real losers in this game are those who fall outside the circle of control. Hollywood, like a massive machine, devours everything in its path, and only those who know how to manage the system can emerge unscathed.
The Mel Gibson case is an example of this. After his anti-Semitic remarks in 2006, he was virtually ostracized from the film industry. However, after years of silence and gradual image management, he returned to major projects. This demonstrates that despite the incredible complexities of the Hollywood world, if there is proper management behind the scenes, it's not impossible to rebuild a persona.
Hollywood, with its mysterious ecosystem, continues to function. Image management, narrative manipulation, and power plays are integral parts of this industry. Only when one of the players makes a significant mistake or crosses the unwritten red lines does the system discard them, and another star takes their place.
NOURNEWS