Nicola here. A new book about celebrity was published a couple of weeks ago. Called “Dead Famous” it’s written by Greg Jenner, a historical consultant on Horrible Histories and traces a history of celebrity from the Bronze Age to the modern day. The Amazon blurb reads: “Celebrity, with its neon glow and selfie pout, strikes us as hypermodern. But the famous and infamous have been thrilling, titillating, and outraging us for much longer than we might realise.” Quoted examples are Lord Byron, the Shakespearean actor Edmund Kean and Sarah Bernhardt.
Way back in 2007(!) I wrote a book called Lord of Scandal which was about a Regency celebrity. I was writing it at the same time that I was researching my MA dissertation and it was this research into heroes that fed into the book. Now I have a new book, The Forgotten Sister, coming out in a couple of weeks that also features celebrity, this time in a slightly different way, drawing on parallels between the cult of Queen Elizabeth I and modern-day fame.
In The Forgotten Sister, Lizzie Kingdom is a modern-day celebrity who enjoys (or even takes for granted in the beginning) the 
privileges and pleasures of fame. There are strong similarities between her and the character of the young Elizabeth I and it was fascinating researching the way in which Elizabeth’s image was created. One of the main ways that this was done was through art. Elizabeth’s image-makers very deliberately used political imagery in her portraits: the crown and the sceptre, emphasising her status as queen and her divine right to rule, and alongside that they also used pearls to denote purity, and the rose, the star, the moon, the phoenix and the ermine. In one of her most famous portraits, Elizabeth is wearing a pelican brooch to signify the selfless love of a mother for her people.
The presentation of Elizabeth as ageless with a “mask of youth” appearance was also deliberate as a reassurance to people that she had longevity. This wasn’t simple vanity! The opulence of her dress was also a way to build up her image and the portraits of her show clothing and jewellery of staggering magnificence. I thought hard about Elizabeth and the process of image-making when I was writing the character of Lizzie, and it made me reflect that these days it may be easier to project a particular image on social media but it's also a lot easier for it to be swiftly destroyed as well.
Looking back at the history of celebrity, it''s arguable that Roman gladiators were the first real celebrities, roared on in the arena, each with their own group of fans. In 1992 this concept was reinvented as a TV show (minus the gory death!) and made modern celebrities out of some of the participants. History really does repeat itself in different forms!
Celebrity really came into its own in the 18th century, however, when the growth of metropolitan society and the spread of literacy meant that gossip about the private lives of people in the public eye could be disseminated much more easily than ever before. Scandal sheets, which started as early as Elizabethan times, referred to celebrity gossip as “secret history.” This was the way in which the public found out about Nelson’s ménage a trois with Sir William and Lady Hamilton. Journalists were not above hanging out in seedy taverns to pick up gossip from servants over a game of dice.
As I discovered when I studied him, Nelson was also the master of self-promotion. He consciously used the press to create the hero persona that drew him to public attention and acclaim. His decisive tactics at the Battle of St Vincent had contributed much to the victory and his daring capture of two enemy ships was seen as the most spectacular moment of the day. But this in itself would not have been sufficient to elevate him to hero/celebrity status – many naval captains had achieved just as much. However Nelson promoted himself by giving an interview intended for publication to Colonel John Drinkwater, an author who witnessed the Battle of St Vincent. He also published a narrative: “Nelson’s Patent Bridge for Boarding First-Rates” (editors take note of the catch title!) which was a huge popular success. It’s hard to imagine the book being read avidly in houses up and down England though. Perhaps it was one of those books everyone buys and no one reads! 😊
As with Elizabeth I. Nelson was not averse to using portraits to emphasise his prowess in more ways than one. They were the selfies 
of the day. I love the story that his 1798 portrait by Guy Head paints him at the moment of victory at the Battle of the Nile, “showing a phallic sword thrust suggestively into the furled French colours.” The meaning of the portrait could scarcely be less subtle and was no doubt immediately understood by every Englishman who saw it. In a further twist on the phallic symbolism, Nelson gave the painting as a personal gift to Emma Hamilton.
And whilst we’re on the subject of image, let’s not forget that supreme self-publicist, the poet Byron. “I awoke one morning and found myself famous,” he said in 1812, after the publication of the first two cantos of Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage had brought him instant literary success. This was disingenuous; he had been working on his celebrity for years and continued to do so, realising that there was nothing so effective as spinning your own legend. He accompanied the publication of his poem The Corsair in 1814 with a self-portrait complete with exotic headscarf and cutlass, thus identifying himself explicitly with the smouldering piratical hero. Even his departure from England was a piece of theatre as he took a coach that was modelled on Napoleon’s campaigning carriage with the conceit of the initials NB (Noel Byron) emblazoned on the side.
A public appearance has always been a way for a celebrity to enhance their fame and again, this 
isn’t a new phenomenon. I’m fascinated by the Misses Gunning, two sisters from a genteel but poor Irish background who became so famous for their beauty that they attracted a crowd wherever they went. Maria Gunning (on the right) had her own bodyguard to protect her from being mobbed when she went out in Hyde Park! There’s definitely a modern parallel there with some famous sisters… Then there was Beau Brummell, the famous arbiter of fashion. If he lived now, he would no doubt have his own designer clothing brand.
There’s an interesting question being asked about celebrity at the moment. With a world health crisis taking place, are people interested in celebrities any longer? What is their role now and do we even care? Some people are predicting that 2020 will see the end of celebrity as we know it, but with the example of the past centuries to draw on, it seems more likely that celebrity will survive and re-invent itself, just as it always has.
Is there a historical figure you would consider to have been a celebrity in their time? Is there any particular person you would have turned out to see?
Fabulous and interesting blog, Nicola. I’ve always been fascinated by the life, loves and sheer embracer of adventure that was Jane Digby. So fascinating to read about and of course, your blog highlights and make you realise that there are people in every generation who don’t conform. Interesting question. I think we’re always (and probably always will be) interested in stories of people who are larger than life. (I do think some of our historical examples could show these young ‘uns a thing or two though. They’re much more interesting for a start:)
Fabulous and interesting blog, Nicola. I’ve always been fascinated by the life, loves and sheer embracer of adventure that was Jane Digby. So fascinating to read about and of course, your blog highlights and make you realise that there are people in every generation who don’t conform. Interesting question. I think we’re always (and probably always will be) interested in stories of people who are larger than life. (I do think some of our historical examples could show these young ‘uns a thing or two though. They’re much more interesting for a start:)
Fabulous and interesting blog, Nicola. I’ve always been fascinated by the life, loves and sheer embracer of adventure that was Jane Digby. So fascinating to read about and of course, your blog highlights and make you realise that there are people in every generation who don’t conform. Interesting question. I think we’re always (and probably always will be) interested in stories of people who are larger than life. (I do think some of our historical examples could show these young ‘uns a thing or two though. They’re much more interesting for a start:)
Fabulous and interesting blog, Nicola. I’ve always been fascinated by the life, loves and sheer embracer of adventure that was Jane Digby. So fascinating to read about and of course, your blog highlights and make you realise that there are people in every generation who don’t conform. Interesting question. I think we’re always (and probably always will be) interested in stories of people who are larger than life. (I do think some of our historical examples could show these young ‘uns a thing or two though. They’re much more interesting for a start:)
Fabulous and interesting blog, Nicola. I’ve always been fascinated by the life, loves and sheer embracer of adventure that was Jane Digby. So fascinating to read about and of course, your blog highlights and make you realise that there are people in every generation who don’t conform. Interesting question. I think we’re always (and probably always will be) interested in stories of people who are larger than life. (I do think some of our historical examples could show these young ‘uns a thing or two though. They’re much more interesting for a start:)
I think some American Presidents are: Lincoln perhaps. Almost certainly both Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Perhaps Dwight Eisenhower.
Also perhaps Henry Ford.
During WWII, there was a parade of stars in St. Louis (and other cities no doubt) in order to sell more War Bonds. My sister and I (who had just seen Yankee Doodle Dandy) ran beside his auto during the entire circuit of downtown. I believe that is the only time I’ve followed a celebrity.
I think some American Presidents are: Lincoln perhaps. Almost certainly both Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Perhaps Dwight Eisenhower.
Also perhaps Henry Ford.
During WWII, there was a parade of stars in St. Louis (and other cities no doubt) in order to sell more War Bonds. My sister and I (who had just seen Yankee Doodle Dandy) ran beside his auto during the entire circuit of downtown. I believe that is the only time I’ve followed a celebrity.
I think some American Presidents are: Lincoln perhaps. Almost certainly both Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Perhaps Dwight Eisenhower.
Also perhaps Henry Ford.
During WWII, there was a parade of stars in St. Louis (and other cities no doubt) in order to sell more War Bonds. My sister and I (who had just seen Yankee Doodle Dandy) ran beside his auto during the entire circuit of downtown. I believe that is the only time I’ve followed a celebrity.
I think some American Presidents are: Lincoln perhaps. Almost certainly both Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Perhaps Dwight Eisenhower.
Also perhaps Henry Ford.
During WWII, there was a parade of stars in St. Louis (and other cities no doubt) in order to sell more War Bonds. My sister and I (who had just seen Yankee Doodle Dandy) ran beside his auto during the entire circuit of downtown. I believe that is the only time I’ve followed a celebrity.
I think some American Presidents are: Lincoln perhaps. Almost certainly both Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Perhaps Dwight Eisenhower.
Also perhaps Henry Ford.
During WWII, there was a parade of stars in St. Louis (and other cities no doubt) in order to sell more War Bonds. My sister and I (who had just seen Yankee Doodle Dandy) ran beside his auto during the entire circuit of downtown. I believe that is the only time I’ve followed a celebrity.
Thanks so much, Trish, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Wasn’t Jane Digby fascinating? I loved reading about her life, so inspiring! I particularly enjoy historical “celebrities” who were at least famous for doing something rather than nothing! As you say, some of the modern day ones are a lot less interesting.
Thanks so much, Trish, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Wasn’t Jane Digby fascinating? I loved reading about her life, so inspiring! I particularly enjoy historical “celebrities” who were at least famous for doing something rather than nothing! As you say, some of the modern day ones are a lot less interesting.
Thanks so much, Trish, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Wasn’t Jane Digby fascinating? I loved reading about her life, so inspiring! I particularly enjoy historical “celebrities” who were at least famous for doing something rather than nothing! As you say, some of the modern day ones are a lot less interesting.
Thanks so much, Trish, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Wasn’t Jane Digby fascinating? I loved reading about her life, so inspiring! I particularly enjoy historical “celebrities” who were at least famous for doing something rather than nothing! As you say, some of the modern day ones are a lot less interesting.
Thanks so much, Trish, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Wasn’t Jane Digby fascinating? I loved reading about her life, so inspiring! I particularly enjoy historical “celebrities” who were at least famous for doing something rather than nothing! As you say, some of the modern day ones are a lot less interesting.
Wow, Sue, that’s an amazing story! I can imagine that was so exciting at the time. Certainly there are some US presidents whose celebrity was and still is worldwide.
Wow, Sue, that’s an amazing story! I can imagine that was so exciting at the time. Certainly there are some US presidents whose celebrity was and still is worldwide.
Wow, Sue, that’s an amazing story! I can imagine that was so exciting at the time. Certainly there are some US presidents whose celebrity was and still is worldwide.
Wow, Sue, that’s an amazing story! I can imagine that was so exciting at the time. Certainly there are some US presidents whose celebrity was and still is worldwide.
Wow, Sue, that’s an amazing story! I can imagine that was so exciting at the time. Certainly there are some US presidents whose celebrity was and still is worldwide.
These days, it seems, the celebrity pie just keeps getting bigger and bigger, thanks to the d-i-y possibilities of Youtube, Twitter, etc. I’m surprised there isn’t a Celebrity for Dummies book (there isn’t, I checked Amazon, which suggested Pressure Cookers for Dummies–a droll guess by their Search algorithm). Self-appointed “influencers” abound, and anyone with a winsome pet or pretty kitchen can set up a nice little “name” business. I guess the various Kardashians rule, though I wouldn’t know one if it bit me, but there are lots of niche celebs, too. Which I think is lovely, since we can each find a few that reflect our own interests. We live in interesting times, in more ways than one.
These days, it seems, the celebrity pie just keeps getting bigger and bigger, thanks to the d-i-y possibilities of Youtube, Twitter, etc. I’m surprised there isn’t a Celebrity for Dummies book (there isn’t, I checked Amazon, which suggested Pressure Cookers for Dummies–a droll guess by their Search algorithm). Self-appointed “influencers” abound, and anyone with a winsome pet or pretty kitchen can set up a nice little “name” business. I guess the various Kardashians rule, though I wouldn’t know one if it bit me, but there are lots of niche celebs, too. Which I think is lovely, since we can each find a few that reflect our own interests. We live in interesting times, in more ways than one.
These days, it seems, the celebrity pie just keeps getting bigger and bigger, thanks to the d-i-y possibilities of Youtube, Twitter, etc. I’m surprised there isn’t a Celebrity for Dummies book (there isn’t, I checked Amazon, which suggested Pressure Cookers for Dummies–a droll guess by their Search algorithm). Self-appointed “influencers” abound, and anyone with a winsome pet or pretty kitchen can set up a nice little “name” business. I guess the various Kardashians rule, though I wouldn’t know one if it bit me, but there are lots of niche celebs, too. Which I think is lovely, since we can each find a few that reflect our own interests. We live in interesting times, in more ways than one.
These days, it seems, the celebrity pie just keeps getting bigger and bigger, thanks to the d-i-y possibilities of Youtube, Twitter, etc. I’m surprised there isn’t a Celebrity for Dummies book (there isn’t, I checked Amazon, which suggested Pressure Cookers for Dummies–a droll guess by their Search algorithm). Self-appointed “influencers” abound, and anyone with a winsome pet or pretty kitchen can set up a nice little “name” business. I guess the various Kardashians rule, though I wouldn’t know one if it bit me, but there are lots of niche celebs, too. Which I think is lovely, since we can each find a few that reflect our own interests. We live in interesting times, in more ways than one.
These days, it seems, the celebrity pie just keeps getting bigger and bigger, thanks to the d-i-y possibilities of Youtube, Twitter, etc. I’m surprised there isn’t a Celebrity for Dummies book (there isn’t, I checked Amazon, which suggested Pressure Cookers for Dummies–a droll guess by their Search algorithm). Self-appointed “influencers” abound, and anyone with a winsome pet or pretty kitchen can set up a nice little “name” business. I guess the various Kardashians rule, though I wouldn’t know one if it bit me, but there are lots of niche celebs, too. Which I think is lovely, since we can each find a few that reflect our own interests. We live in interesting times, in more ways than one.
LOL, Mary! I love that Amazon suggested pressure cookers in place of celebrity! I know there are books called things like “so you want to be Instagram famous” for wannabees. I have a winsome pet but he refuses to cheapen himself by becoming a social media brand He is however graciously appearing on my FB page at the moment, posing with beaches and historic houses! I think celebrity is here to stay even after the pandemic; I suspect things will go back to how they were before even if celebs appear less relevant during times like these.
LOL, Mary! I love that Amazon suggested pressure cookers in place of celebrity! I know there are books called things like “so you want to be Instagram famous” for wannabees. I have a winsome pet but he refuses to cheapen himself by becoming a social media brand He is however graciously appearing on my FB page at the moment, posing with beaches and historic houses! I think celebrity is here to stay even after the pandemic; I suspect things will go back to how they were before even if celebs appear less relevant during times like these.
LOL, Mary! I love that Amazon suggested pressure cookers in place of celebrity! I know there are books called things like “so you want to be Instagram famous” for wannabees. I have a winsome pet but he refuses to cheapen himself by becoming a social media brand He is however graciously appearing on my FB page at the moment, posing with beaches and historic houses! I think celebrity is here to stay even after the pandemic; I suspect things will go back to how they were before even if celebs appear less relevant during times like these.
LOL, Mary! I love that Amazon suggested pressure cookers in place of celebrity! I know there are books called things like “so you want to be Instagram famous” for wannabees. I have a winsome pet but he refuses to cheapen himself by becoming a social media brand He is however graciously appearing on my FB page at the moment, posing with beaches and historic houses! I think celebrity is here to stay even after the pandemic; I suspect things will go back to how they were before even if celebs appear less relevant during times like these.
LOL, Mary! I love that Amazon suggested pressure cookers in place of celebrity! I know there are books called things like “so you want to be Instagram famous” for wannabees. I have a winsome pet but he refuses to cheapen himself by becoming a social media brand He is however graciously appearing on my FB page at the moment, posing with beaches and historic houses! I think celebrity is here to stay even after the pandemic; I suspect things will go back to how they were before even if celebs appear less relevant during times like these.
I’m a great sports enthusiast and played a lot of cricket and soccer when young. Sir Don Bradman was my hero, arguably the best batsman of all time but also bowled leg breaks (as did I!). A sporting celebrity like Bradman had no need for portraits, as during the season he would be constantly in the news or the subject of radio commentary, especially when scoring centuries against England. Pity there are no romances involving this prince of the willow that I know of …. maybe because Americans just don’t seem to understand the game. Now that women are getting more involved, maybe the time is right for the first cricketing romance, even a time slip?
I’m a great sports enthusiast and played a lot of cricket and soccer when young. Sir Don Bradman was my hero, arguably the best batsman of all time but also bowled leg breaks (as did I!). A sporting celebrity like Bradman had no need for portraits, as during the season he would be constantly in the news or the subject of radio commentary, especially when scoring centuries against England. Pity there are no romances involving this prince of the willow that I know of …. maybe because Americans just don’t seem to understand the game. Now that women are getting more involved, maybe the time is right for the first cricketing romance, even a time slip?
I’m a great sports enthusiast and played a lot of cricket and soccer when young. Sir Don Bradman was my hero, arguably the best batsman of all time but also bowled leg breaks (as did I!). A sporting celebrity like Bradman had no need for portraits, as during the season he would be constantly in the news or the subject of radio commentary, especially when scoring centuries against England. Pity there are no romances involving this prince of the willow that I know of …. maybe because Americans just don’t seem to understand the game. Now that women are getting more involved, maybe the time is right for the first cricketing romance, even a time slip?
I’m a great sports enthusiast and played a lot of cricket and soccer when young. Sir Don Bradman was my hero, arguably the best batsman of all time but also bowled leg breaks (as did I!). A sporting celebrity like Bradman had no need for portraits, as during the season he would be constantly in the news or the subject of radio commentary, especially when scoring centuries against England. Pity there are no romances involving this prince of the willow that I know of …. maybe because Americans just don’t seem to understand the game. Now that women are getting more involved, maybe the time is right for the first cricketing romance, even a time slip?
I’m a great sports enthusiast and played a lot of cricket and soccer when young. Sir Don Bradman was my hero, arguably the best batsman of all time but also bowled leg breaks (as did I!). A sporting celebrity like Bradman had no need for portraits, as during the season he would be constantly in the news or the subject of radio commentary, especially when scoring centuries against England. Pity there are no romances involving this prince of the willow that I know of …. maybe because Americans just don’t seem to understand the game. Now that women are getting more involved, maybe the time is right for the first cricketing romance, even a time slip?
Can’t wait for your new book Nicola. Was checking today thinking it was coming out on the 6th for some reason. No such luck!!!
I answered a question on your newsletter about famous people and dinner, the answer would be the same here. I’d love to see Jane Austen and I’d definitely go to hear Winston Churchill speak. He made some wonderful speeches in his time. I haven’t much time for so called celebrities now.
Enjoyed the post.
Can’t wait for your new book Nicola. Was checking today thinking it was coming out on the 6th for some reason. No such luck!!!
I answered a question on your newsletter about famous people and dinner, the answer would be the same here. I’d love to see Jane Austen and I’d definitely go to hear Winston Churchill speak. He made some wonderful speeches in his time. I haven’t much time for so called celebrities now.
Enjoyed the post.
Can’t wait for your new book Nicola. Was checking today thinking it was coming out on the 6th for some reason. No such luck!!!
I answered a question on your newsletter about famous people and dinner, the answer would be the same here. I’d love to see Jane Austen and I’d definitely go to hear Winston Churchill speak. He made some wonderful speeches in his time. I haven’t much time for so called celebrities now.
Enjoyed the post.
Can’t wait for your new book Nicola. Was checking today thinking it was coming out on the 6th for some reason. No such luck!!!
I answered a question on your newsletter about famous people and dinner, the answer would be the same here. I’d love to see Jane Austen and I’d definitely go to hear Winston Churchill speak. He made some wonderful speeches in his time. I haven’t much time for so called celebrities now.
Enjoyed the post.
Can’t wait for your new book Nicola. Was checking today thinking it was coming out on the 6th for some reason. No such luck!!!
I answered a question on your newsletter about famous people and dinner, the answer would be the same here. I’d love to see Jane Austen and I’d definitely go to hear Winston Churchill speak. He made some wonderful speeches in his time. I haven’t much time for so called celebrities now.
Enjoyed the post.
Quantum, it’s interesting that you mention sporting heroes as celebrities because I always feel that they deserve the fame having excelled in their own field (the same as with any “celebrity” that is based on achievement rather than something less tangible.) As a keen cricket fan myself I could imagine including cricket in a time slip story…
Quantum, it’s interesting that you mention sporting heroes as celebrities because I always feel that they deserve the fame having excelled in their own field (the same as with any “celebrity” that is based on achievement rather than something less tangible.) As a keen cricket fan myself I could imagine including cricket in a time slip story…
Quantum, it’s interesting that you mention sporting heroes as celebrities because I always feel that they deserve the fame having excelled in their own field (the same as with any “celebrity” that is based on achievement rather than something less tangible.) As a keen cricket fan myself I could imagine including cricket in a time slip story…
Quantum, it’s interesting that you mention sporting heroes as celebrities because I always feel that they deserve the fame having excelled in their own field (the same as with any “celebrity” that is based on achievement rather than something less tangible.) As a keen cricket fan myself I could imagine including cricket in a time slip story…
Quantum, it’s interesting that you mention sporting heroes as celebrities because I always feel that they deserve the fame having excelled in their own field (the same as with any “celebrity” that is based on achievement rather than something less tangible.) As a keen cricket fan myself I could imagine including cricket in a time slip story…
Hi Teresa! Thank you so much for your kind comments about the new book! I think those two would make great dinner companions because individually they are so interesting but can you imagine the conversation between the two of them?! It would be extraordinary to be a part of that!
Hi Teresa! Thank you so much for your kind comments about the new book! I think those two would make great dinner companions because individually they are so interesting but can you imagine the conversation between the two of them?! It would be extraordinary to be a part of that!
Hi Teresa! Thank you so much for your kind comments about the new book! I think those two would make great dinner companions because individually they are so interesting but can you imagine the conversation between the two of them?! It would be extraordinary to be a part of that!
Hi Teresa! Thank you so much for your kind comments about the new book! I think those two would make great dinner companions because individually they are so interesting but can you imagine the conversation between the two of them?! It would be extraordinary to be a part of that!
Hi Teresa! Thank you so much for your kind comments about the new book! I think those two would make great dinner companions because individually they are so interesting but can you imagine the conversation between the two of them?! It would be extraordinary to be a part of that!
Fascinating subject! The most scandalous celebrity I know of the 18th Century was Elizabeth Chudleigh, she of the bigamy scandal and wearing virtually see-through clothes. She was definitely one who flaunted her celebrity status as long as she could get away with it.
Fascinating subject! The most scandalous celebrity I know of the 18th Century was Elizabeth Chudleigh, she of the bigamy scandal and wearing virtually see-through clothes. She was definitely one who flaunted her celebrity status as long as she could get away with it.
Fascinating subject! The most scandalous celebrity I know of the 18th Century was Elizabeth Chudleigh, she of the bigamy scandal and wearing virtually see-through clothes. She was definitely one who flaunted her celebrity status as long as she could get away with it.
Fascinating subject! The most scandalous celebrity I know of the 18th Century was Elizabeth Chudleigh, she of the bigamy scandal and wearing virtually see-through clothes. She was definitely one who flaunted her celebrity status as long as she could get away with it.
Fascinating subject! The most scandalous celebrity I know of the 18th Century was Elizabeth Chudleigh, she of the bigamy scandal and wearing virtually see-through clothes. She was definitely one who flaunted her celebrity status as long as she could get away with it.
Thomas Jefferson – Lafayette – Shakespeare – Lou Gehrig – Buster Keaton – Agatha Christie – Walter Cronkite
When my children were small, I always told them that when they grew up I was going to run away to become a Cronkite groupie.
I think one of the differences – in the past most celebrities were well known because of accomplishments – ruling England, defeating the French Navy or writing poetry etc. Now – well now the accomplishments are more difficult to see.
Thomas Jefferson – Lafayette – Shakespeare – Lou Gehrig – Buster Keaton – Agatha Christie – Walter Cronkite
When my children were small, I always told them that when they grew up I was going to run away to become a Cronkite groupie.
I think one of the differences – in the past most celebrities were well known because of accomplishments – ruling England, defeating the French Navy or writing poetry etc. Now – well now the accomplishments are more difficult to see.
Thomas Jefferson – Lafayette – Shakespeare – Lou Gehrig – Buster Keaton – Agatha Christie – Walter Cronkite
When my children were small, I always told them that when they grew up I was going to run away to become a Cronkite groupie.
I think one of the differences – in the past most celebrities were well known because of accomplishments – ruling England, defeating the French Navy or writing poetry etc. Now – well now the accomplishments are more difficult to see.
Thomas Jefferson – Lafayette – Shakespeare – Lou Gehrig – Buster Keaton – Agatha Christie – Walter Cronkite
When my children were small, I always told them that when they grew up I was going to run away to become a Cronkite groupie.
I think one of the differences – in the past most celebrities were well known because of accomplishments – ruling England, defeating the French Navy or writing poetry etc. Now – well now the accomplishments are more difficult to see.
Thomas Jefferson – Lafayette – Shakespeare – Lou Gehrig – Buster Keaton – Agatha Christie – Walter Cronkite
When my children were small, I always told them that when they grew up I was going to run away to become a Cronkite groupie.
I think one of the differences – in the past most celebrities were well known because of accomplishments – ruling England, defeating the French Navy or writing poetry etc. Now – well now the accomplishments are more difficult to see.
Hi Nicola, loved this post! You wenches write the best posts, always so clever and interesting. What caught me about this post in particular was your obvious love of research. This is one of my favorite things as a writer as well. Some of the pictures you came up with were fantastic–the Sword & Lord Nelson (oh my) and Lady Hamilton–what a looker! I agree with your summation at the end that celebrity will, as always, find a way of reinventing itself, but right now as we all struggle with getting through one day at a time, shallow celebrity (especially of the Instagram kind) bores me to tears. I would much rather read the Wenches Blog, your next book, or talk to any of the interesting people all your readers have recommended. And I believe, at the end of these challenging times, more readers will want more HEA, enjoyable fiction than ever before!
Hi Nicola, loved this post! You wenches write the best posts, always so clever and interesting. What caught me about this post in particular was your obvious love of research. This is one of my favorite things as a writer as well. Some of the pictures you came up with were fantastic–the Sword & Lord Nelson (oh my) and Lady Hamilton–what a looker! I agree with your summation at the end that celebrity will, as always, find a way of reinventing itself, but right now as we all struggle with getting through one day at a time, shallow celebrity (especially of the Instagram kind) bores me to tears. I would much rather read the Wenches Blog, your next book, or talk to any of the interesting people all your readers have recommended. And I believe, at the end of these challenging times, more readers will want more HEA, enjoyable fiction than ever before!
Hi Nicola, loved this post! You wenches write the best posts, always so clever and interesting. What caught me about this post in particular was your obvious love of research. This is one of my favorite things as a writer as well. Some of the pictures you came up with were fantastic–the Sword & Lord Nelson (oh my) and Lady Hamilton–what a looker! I agree with your summation at the end that celebrity will, as always, find a way of reinventing itself, but right now as we all struggle with getting through one day at a time, shallow celebrity (especially of the Instagram kind) bores me to tears. I would much rather read the Wenches Blog, your next book, or talk to any of the interesting people all your readers have recommended. And I believe, at the end of these challenging times, more readers will want more HEA, enjoyable fiction than ever before!
Hi Nicola, loved this post! You wenches write the best posts, always so clever and interesting. What caught me about this post in particular was your obvious love of research. This is one of my favorite things as a writer as well. Some of the pictures you came up with were fantastic–the Sword & Lord Nelson (oh my) and Lady Hamilton–what a looker! I agree with your summation at the end that celebrity will, as always, find a way of reinventing itself, but right now as we all struggle with getting through one day at a time, shallow celebrity (especially of the Instagram kind) bores me to tears. I would much rather read the Wenches Blog, your next book, or talk to any of the interesting people all your readers have recommended. And I believe, at the end of these challenging times, more readers will want more HEA, enjoyable fiction than ever before!
Hi Nicola, loved this post! You wenches write the best posts, always so clever and interesting. What caught me about this post in particular was your obvious love of research. This is one of my favorite things as a writer as well. Some of the pictures you came up with were fantastic–the Sword & Lord Nelson (oh my) and Lady Hamilton–what a looker! I agree with your summation at the end that celebrity will, as always, find a way of reinventing itself, but right now as we all struggle with getting through one day at a time, shallow celebrity (especially of the Instagram kind) bores me to tears. I would much rather read the Wenches Blog, your next book, or talk to any of the interesting people all your readers have recommended. And I believe, at the end of these challenging times, more readers will want more HEA, enjoyable fiction than ever before!
Interesting post.
I’d have turned out to see Elizabeth I of England – or Catherine the Great of Russia. I like to imagine that I’d have been an aristocrat entitled to privileged access to those people – but would probably have been a member of the hoi polloi fighting in the streets to see them.
Interesting post.
I’d have turned out to see Elizabeth I of England – or Catherine the Great of Russia. I like to imagine that I’d have been an aristocrat entitled to privileged access to those people – but would probably have been a member of the hoi polloi fighting in the streets to see them.
Interesting post.
I’d have turned out to see Elizabeth I of England – or Catherine the Great of Russia. I like to imagine that I’d have been an aristocrat entitled to privileged access to those people – but would probably have been a member of the hoi polloi fighting in the streets to see them.
Interesting post.
I’d have turned out to see Elizabeth I of England – or Catherine the Great of Russia. I like to imagine that I’d have been an aristocrat entitled to privileged access to those people – but would probably have been a member of the hoi polloi fighting in the streets to see them.
Interesting post.
I’d have turned out to see Elizabeth I of England – or Catherine the Great of Russia. I like to imagine that I’d have been an aristocrat entitled to privileged access to those people – but would probably have been a member of the hoi polloi fighting in the streets to see them.
Ha! That’s an interesting choice, Liz. She sounds very much in the mould of a reality TV star these days who becomes famous for not very much and clings on for dear life!
Ha! That’s an interesting choice, Liz. She sounds very much in the mould of a reality TV star these days who becomes famous for not very much and clings on for dear life!
Ha! That’s an interesting choice, Liz. She sounds very much in the mould of a reality TV star these days who becomes famous for not very much and clings on for dear life!
Ha! That’s an interesting choice, Liz. She sounds very much in the mould of a reality TV star these days who becomes famous for not very much and clings on for dear life!
Ha! That’s an interesting choice, Liz. She sounds very much in the mould of a reality TV star these days who becomes famous for not very much and clings on for dear life!
Absolutely, Annette. So often now people seem to be famous for the sake of it whereas with sporting or other heroes and heroines it feels that fame had been earned.
Absolutely, Annette. So often now people seem to be famous for the sake of it whereas with sporting or other heroes and heroines it feels that fame had been earned.
Absolutely, Annette. So often now people seem to be famous for the sake of it whereas with sporting or other heroes and heroines it feels that fame had been earned.
Absolutely, Annette. So often now people seem to be famous for the sake of it whereas with sporting or other heroes and heroines it feels that fame had been earned.
Absolutely, Annette. So often now people seem to be famous for the sake of it whereas with sporting or other heroes and heroines it feels that fame had been earned.
Hi Kelly and thank you so much for the comment. Yes, Emma Hamilton was a very pretty girl, wasn’t she, as were the Misses Gunning and the certainly made the most of that like modern celebrities do of their looks! The Nelson painting makes me laugh, it’s so unsubtle!
I’m so glad you enjoy the Wench posts! We do enjoy our research and all other aspects of history and writing and reading and it’s great to have a community of other authors and readers where we can chat about all these things!
Hi Kelly and thank you so much for the comment. Yes, Emma Hamilton was a very pretty girl, wasn’t she, as were the Misses Gunning and the certainly made the most of that like modern celebrities do of their looks! The Nelson painting makes me laugh, it’s so unsubtle!
I’m so glad you enjoy the Wench posts! We do enjoy our research and all other aspects of history and writing and reading and it’s great to have a community of other authors and readers where we can chat about all these things!
Hi Kelly and thank you so much for the comment. Yes, Emma Hamilton was a very pretty girl, wasn’t she, as were the Misses Gunning and the certainly made the most of that like modern celebrities do of their looks! The Nelson painting makes me laugh, it’s so unsubtle!
I’m so glad you enjoy the Wench posts! We do enjoy our research and all other aspects of history and writing and reading and it’s great to have a community of other authors and readers where we can chat about all these things!
Hi Kelly and thank you so much for the comment. Yes, Emma Hamilton was a very pretty girl, wasn’t she, as were the Misses Gunning and the certainly made the most of that like modern celebrities do of their looks! The Nelson painting makes me laugh, it’s so unsubtle!
I’m so glad you enjoy the Wench posts! We do enjoy our research and all other aspects of history and writing and reading and it’s great to have a community of other authors and readers where we can chat about all these things!
Hi Kelly and thank you so much for the comment. Yes, Emma Hamilton was a very pretty girl, wasn’t she, as were the Misses Gunning and the certainly made the most of that like modern celebrities do of their looks! The Nelson painting makes me laugh, it’s so unsubtle!
I’m so glad you enjoy the Wench posts! We do enjoy our research and all other aspects of history and writing and reading and it’s great to have a community of other authors and readers where we can chat about all these things!
LOL, Anne, me too! I would have loved to see those women in real life; they must have been totally dazzling!
LOL, Anne, me too! I would have loved to see those women in real life; they must have been totally dazzling!
LOL, Anne, me too! I would have loved to see those women in real life; they must have been totally dazzling!
LOL, Anne, me too! I would have loved to see those women in real life; they must have been totally dazzling!
LOL, Anne, me too! I would have loved to see those women in real life; they must have been totally dazzling!
I remember Lord of Scandal well and I think I still have a copy around somewhere. With its focus on celebrity in the regency it was something different and unusual. I see it’s available inexpensively on Kindle.
Looking forward to The Forgotten Sister, which I would like to order from amazon UK, but I get a message that they can’t ship to the US. Do you have a US release date yet?
The last celebrity I turned out to see was Robert Evans, when he was doing “evenings with” around the time of Kid Notorious. I wanted to see if he was real, which he was 🙂
I missed seeing Cary Grant because he was appearing someplace in Orange County, and I missed Leonard Nimoy because I forgot I had bought the ticket. But I did catch Patrick Stewart when he was doing his first Christmas Carol one man shows — granted, it was an audience full of Star Trek fans, but it was amazing how he held the audience’s attention all by himself. I was going through some personal losses at the time and for a couple of hours he lifted my grief and loss, for which I will always love him.
I remember Lord of Scandal well and I think I still have a copy around somewhere. With its focus on celebrity in the regency it was something different and unusual. I see it’s available inexpensively on Kindle.
Looking forward to The Forgotten Sister, which I would like to order from amazon UK, but I get a message that they can’t ship to the US. Do you have a US release date yet?
The last celebrity I turned out to see was Robert Evans, when he was doing “evenings with” around the time of Kid Notorious. I wanted to see if he was real, which he was 🙂
I missed seeing Cary Grant because he was appearing someplace in Orange County, and I missed Leonard Nimoy because I forgot I had bought the ticket. But I did catch Patrick Stewart when he was doing his first Christmas Carol one man shows — granted, it was an audience full of Star Trek fans, but it was amazing how he held the audience’s attention all by himself. I was going through some personal losses at the time and for a couple of hours he lifted my grief and loss, for which I will always love him.
I remember Lord of Scandal well and I think I still have a copy around somewhere. With its focus on celebrity in the regency it was something different and unusual. I see it’s available inexpensively on Kindle.
Looking forward to The Forgotten Sister, which I would like to order from amazon UK, but I get a message that they can’t ship to the US. Do you have a US release date yet?
The last celebrity I turned out to see was Robert Evans, when he was doing “evenings with” around the time of Kid Notorious. I wanted to see if he was real, which he was 🙂
I missed seeing Cary Grant because he was appearing someplace in Orange County, and I missed Leonard Nimoy because I forgot I had bought the ticket. But I did catch Patrick Stewart when he was doing his first Christmas Carol one man shows — granted, it was an audience full of Star Trek fans, but it was amazing how he held the audience’s attention all by himself. I was going through some personal losses at the time and for a couple of hours he lifted my grief and loss, for which I will always love him.
I remember Lord of Scandal well and I think I still have a copy around somewhere. With its focus on celebrity in the regency it was something different and unusual. I see it’s available inexpensively on Kindle.
Looking forward to The Forgotten Sister, which I would like to order from amazon UK, but I get a message that they can’t ship to the US. Do you have a US release date yet?
The last celebrity I turned out to see was Robert Evans, when he was doing “evenings with” around the time of Kid Notorious. I wanted to see if he was real, which he was 🙂
I missed seeing Cary Grant because he was appearing someplace in Orange County, and I missed Leonard Nimoy because I forgot I had bought the ticket. But I did catch Patrick Stewart when he was doing his first Christmas Carol one man shows — granted, it was an audience full of Star Trek fans, but it was amazing how he held the audience’s attention all by himself. I was going through some personal losses at the time and for a couple of hours he lifted my grief and loss, for which I will always love him.
I remember Lord of Scandal well and I think I still have a copy around somewhere. With its focus on celebrity in the regency it was something different and unusual. I see it’s available inexpensively on Kindle.
Looking forward to The Forgotten Sister, which I would like to order from amazon UK, but I get a message that they can’t ship to the US. Do you have a US release date yet?
The last celebrity I turned out to see was Robert Evans, when he was doing “evenings with” around the time of Kid Notorious. I wanted to see if he was real, which he was 🙂
I missed seeing Cary Grant because he was appearing someplace in Orange County, and I missed Leonard Nimoy because I forgot I had bought the ticket. But I did catch Patrick Stewart when he was doing his first Christmas Carol one man shows — granted, it was an audience full of Star Trek fans, but it was amazing how he held the audience’s attention all by himself. I was going through some personal losses at the time and for a couple of hours he lifted my grief and loss, for which I will always love him.
Thank you so much, Janice. I’m glad Lord of Scandal is still available. I have a soft spot for that book!
The Forgotten Sister is out in NA in November, so a bit longer to wait, but I hope it will be worth it! With the ongoing virus situation a lot of the paperback distributors here aren’t shipping books at all. I’m not sure if it’s the same in the US.
LOL on Robert Evans! That’s very interesting about Patrick Stewart – I’ve never seen him in real life but can imagine he’d be a very good speaker and a very timely one for you in that moment.
Thank you so much, Janice. I’m glad Lord of Scandal is still available. I have a soft spot for that book!
The Forgotten Sister is out in NA in November, so a bit longer to wait, but I hope it will be worth it! With the ongoing virus situation a lot of the paperback distributors here aren’t shipping books at all. I’m not sure if it’s the same in the US.
LOL on Robert Evans! That’s very interesting about Patrick Stewart – I’ve never seen him in real life but can imagine he’d be a very good speaker and a very timely one for you in that moment.
Thank you so much, Janice. I’m glad Lord of Scandal is still available. I have a soft spot for that book!
The Forgotten Sister is out in NA in November, so a bit longer to wait, but I hope it will be worth it! With the ongoing virus situation a lot of the paperback distributors here aren’t shipping books at all. I’m not sure if it’s the same in the US.
LOL on Robert Evans! That’s very interesting about Patrick Stewart – I’ve never seen him in real life but can imagine he’d be a very good speaker and a very timely one for you in that moment.
Thank you so much, Janice. I’m glad Lord of Scandal is still available. I have a soft spot for that book!
The Forgotten Sister is out in NA in November, so a bit longer to wait, but I hope it will be worth it! With the ongoing virus situation a lot of the paperback distributors here aren’t shipping books at all. I’m not sure if it’s the same in the US.
LOL on Robert Evans! That’s very interesting about Patrick Stewart – I’ve never seen him in real life but can imagine he’d be a very good speaker and a very timely one for you in that moment.
Thank you so much, Janice. I’m glad Lord of Scandal is still available. I have a soft spot for that book!
The Forgotten Sister is out in NA in November, so a bit longer to wait, but I hope it will be worth it! With the ongoing virus situation a lot of the paperback distributors here aren’t shipping books at all. I’m not sure if it’s the same in the US.
LOL on Robert Evans! That’s very interesting about Patrick Stewart – I’ve never seen him in real life but can imagine he’d be a very good speaker and a very timely one for you in that moment.