Celebrity culture has always been prominent in the entertainment world, with many striving to mimic the lives of certain stars. Recently, a new trend has gained immense popularity worldwide: celebrity lookalike competitions. The contests are exciting and entertaining for both the lookalikes entering and the fans spectating. Ranging from stars such as Timothée Chalamet in New York City to Glen Powell in Austin, Texas, many of the contests have exhibited noteworthy lookalikes. However, the trend is gradually losing its impact as people who, rather than trying to look like the stars, simply need to be humbled.
A”Chalamania” in New York City
The fad began on Oct 27. in Washington Square Park, as hundreds of curly-haired, scrawny men dressed as Willy Wonka flocked together for the long-awaited Chalamet lookalike contest. Sparked from a paper flyer put up by YouTuber Anthony Po, contestants filled nearly every inch of the park, all vying for the title of being Hollywood’s heartthrob Chalamet’s number-one lookalike.
The excitement was palpable as contestants paraded around the park, hoping to win the $50 cash prize. Both the contestants and viewers eagerly awaited the competition’s results. As tensions rose, so did the commotion. One striking lookalike, Matt Mannix, was taken away in handcuffs. The arrest left the crowd shocked, heightening the suspense and tension.
Amidst the chaos, a remarkable surprise unfolded: Chalamet arrived (no, he did not win). Delighted fans swarmed the “Dune“ actor, taking pictures and videos with him before his early exit. Chalamet’s appearance made for a satisfied crowd, thrilled to have seen the star in real life.
The event concluded, and Miles Mitchell took home the $50 cash prize and bragging rights.
‘Normal People‘ Mimicking the Stars
The immense success of the Chalamet lookalike competition has sparked a viral trend with new celebrity lookalike competitions taking place weekly in different cities worldwide. A few competitions like the Chalamet one feature many impressive doppelgangers and provide attendees with an enjoyable experience.
One of the first lookalike competitions to take place during the start of the sensation was centered around “Normal People“ actor Paul Mescal. The competition, which took place in Dublin, featured several impressive lookalikes wearing five-inch seam shorts, hoodies and ball caps. However, the wired headphones dangling from the contestants’ necks truly captured the essence of Mescal.
Jack Wall O’Reilly won the Mescal lookalike contest, bringing home three pints or €20.
Other notable contests that featured impressive lookalikes included the Jeremy Allen White one in Chicago, which brought in more than 50 contestants wearing white t-shirts and blue aprons, aiming to resemble White’s character in FX’s hit award-winning series “The Bear.” Another competition took place in Austin, Texas, spotlighting Powell. His mother and aunt judged the event and FaceTimed him during the gathering as he revealed the high stakes for the competition: a cameo in his upcoming film.
The Idea is Not the Same
While many competitions have been neck-to-neck, others are falling flat, and the concept is beginning to lose appeal.
On Nov. 9, a frenzy of Harry Styles wannabe lookalikes gathered in Soho Square, London. One contestant even brought a watermelon and a sugar package about Styles’ song “Watermelon Sugar.” However, he forgot to get elements that resembled Styles’ looks. The contest was disappointing as many participants had little to no resemblances.
Unfortunately, every competitor at the Joe Keery lookalike competition in Chicago was lied to when told they looked like the “Stranger Things” actor. The competition was disappointing with each of the nine contestants barely resembling Keery. However, attendees seemed to enjoy themselves and added fun to their Saturday afternoons.
Embracing Fun and Playfulness
Celebrity lookalike competitions have taken the world by storm. In major cities, the events honor significant actors like Mescal and famous singers like Styles. As fans dress up and embody their favorite celebrities, the contests exemplify how the world craves lighthearted and silly things. It is always a good reminder to slow down and not take life too seriously.
