From Box Office to Backlash: Navigating Reputation Management
Reputation management and public relations are crucial in shaping celebrities’s public image. The journey can be wild, from box-office hits to instant social media backlash if you’re not careful! The struggle is real, and here’s why.
News is Everywhere
Publicists manage their clients' reputations, and we’re living in a fast-paced digital world where information is everywhere. Social media platforms have made this even more challenging, instantly sharing real and fake content. Celebrities can clap back with a single tweet and sometimes make the situation better or worse.
Take Blake Lively's PR Misstep on the It Ends With Us press tour. She faced backlash for promoting side businesses during interviews, calling the movie a chick flick, and not addressing the domestic violence throughout her movie.
Justin Baldoni's transformation from the heartthrob in Jane the Virgin to a controversial director shows how quickly things change. Reports of cast members unfollowing him on social media because of on-set discomfort show how important reputation management is.
The Art of a Comeback: Reputation Recovery
An honest apology is the first step towards a quick comeback. Publicists should guide clients with statements acknowledging the issue, showing they’re sorry, and their improvements.
The next step is to book a follow-up interview. Follow-up interviews let celebrities address things their way. Blake Lively could have:
· Raised awareness for domestic violence
· Shared her personal opinions
· Shared her plans to use her platform for positive change
Taking accountability and showing your growth comes next. Justin Baldoni should have:
· Been more honest
· Been more professional
· Committed to creating safe work environments
The final step is taking everything to social media. Social platforms are powerful tools, and PR teams can:
· Share positive behind-the-scenes footage
· Conversations with fans
· Support relevant causes and charities
Maintaining a positive image is important for everyone, from new talent to established icons. As the entertainment industry evolves, Publicists and strategies should, too.