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Gen Z Prefers Old-School Fame Over Influence
9 Jun
Summary
- Zendaya is the top celebrity Gen Z wants to emulate.
- Many Gen Z adults seek non-famous career paths.
- Desire for influencer careers has significantly declined.

Recent polling indicates a notable shift in Gen Z's aspirations, with a growing preference for traditional fame and career paths over online influence. Zendaya has emerged as the most admired celebrity among young adults under 30, surpassing other prominent figures like Elon Musk and Taylor Swift. This choice suggests an admiration for a type of celebrity that balances public recognition with a carefully guarded private life.
Furthermore, the survey highlights a significant move away from aspirations of becoming influencers. A substantial majority of Gen Z respondents expressed interest in careers such as successful but non-famous tech entrepreneurs, respected intellectuals, or doctors. This contrasts sharply with earlier findings, indicating a generational move towards valuing substance and privacy over constant digital visibility and the pressures of the 'chronically online' lifestyle.