▲

Actress Anne Hathaway is often the subject of public criticism, although the reasons for the animosity directed at her seem unclear. Unlike some celebrities whose controversial actions or statements provoke public backlash, Hathaway seems to face unwarranted hostility.

▲

Anne Hathaway faced widespread criticism in the 2010s, as seen by the trending hashtag #Hathahate on social media in 2013. It seemed that her enthusiastic demeanor and 'theater kid' exuberance provoked a strong reaction from many.

▲

The British comedian and talk show host James Corden often receives a negative reaction from the public. While he has a loyal fan base, some viewers find fault with his interview style.

▲

Why are celebrities like Anne Hathaway, James Corden, and Gwyneth Paltrow often the target of public disdain? Actress and wellness entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow is among the celebrities who consistently seem to incite public annoyance.

▲

According to Kaston Anderson-Carpenter, a psychology professor at Michigan State University, people often develop strong aversions towards others who possess characteristics unlike their own. This tendency to gravitate towards similar individuals can explain the negative feelings some may have towards those with immense wealth, such as the Kardashians, for example.

▲

Certain celebrities, like Lindsay Lohan, have provoked public displeasure due to their behavior that falls short of ideal. Anderson-Carpenter stated, "In our collective mind, we set up certain (often unrealistic) expectations of how celebrities should behave."

▲

Angelina Jolie provokes both admiration and hostility, often tied to her perceived role in the dissolution of Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston's marriage. Anderson-Carpenter notes that society tends to be more critical of celebrities compared to everyday individuals.

▲

Jennifer Aniston is a beloved star, unlike others who are less liked. But what makes certain stars more popular?

▲

As per The Science of People, "Humans are incredibly adept at picking up social cues–especially non-verbally." Could this be a reason that smiley stars such as Will Smith win the public's affection? (That is, before the infamous slap at the Oscars.)

▲

Actor Robert Pattinson receives significant criticism from the public. Is his body language potentially a reason? Science of People suggests that people form opinions about others within seconds, asking themselves, "Are you an ally or an enemy?"

▲

Science of People analyzed multiple photographs of popular celebrities Jennifer Lawrence and Anne Hathaway. Lawrence's pictures were perceived as radiating friendly, happy, and confident vibes, in contrast to Hathaway's.

▲

Studies indicate that emotions, whether good or bad, can be "contagious." John Krasinski, a well-liked celebrity, possesses a broad grin that might evoke positive sentiments among viewers of his photographs.

▲

In contrast, actor Ben Affleck, often included in 'most disliked celebrities' lists, usually musters only a partial smile that can be perceived as a smirk.

▲

Research has indicated that having an raised chin in photos can have a detrimental impact on how attractive a person is perceived to be. This posture may seem disdainful, especially when combined with a slight smile.

▲

Gwyneth Paltrow is a woman who seems to have everything, but lacks widespread popularity. Some find her smile condescending, especially when coupled with the privileged and preachy demeanor of her Goop wellness platform.

▲

Smiling stars like Dwayne Johnson are often ranked highly popular, and it's not surprising. "Facial mimicry" suggests that individuals unconsciously absorb the emotions of those they observe.

▲

A star's image can be influenced by minor factors such as photo angle and smile intensity, affecting how trustworthy they appear to others. Non-verbal social cues, like "trust signaling," play a significant role in shaping our feelings towards them based on their perceived trustworthiness in photos.

▲

An unhappy or tense expression in photos can evoke a similarly negative response. Carrell's sincere, broad smile has the power to lift people's spirits just by being seen.

▲

Some celebrities have become unpopular through actions, as well as appearances. Shia LaBeouf, for exemple, has been criticized for his behavior and physical appearance. His photographed aggressive demeanor and past run-ins with the law have created a negative public perception.

▲

According to Sharon Marcus, a Columbia University professor and the author of 'The Drama of Celebrity,' there are celebrities like Justin Bieber who generate both widespread adoration and intense dislike. Marcus explains that celebrities serve as subjects of public fantasy. "And fantasies are notoriously contradictory and polarized and kind of messy."

▲

Stars like John Mayer often face public criticism due to their history of dating multiple people or engaging in behaviors that may not be in line with societal values. However, Marcus acknowledges, "Even when we know a lot about their private lives, we don't know them the way we know people we've actually met."

▲

Fan culture evokes intense emotions, both favorable and unfavorable. Some admirers express adoration for Kristen Bell while harboring animosity towards other celebrities. According to Marcus, "In fantasy, what we love and what we hate can get very close."

▲

In an interview with USA Today, Marcus stated that female celebrities face "different standards" compared to male celebrities. These women must strive to find a middle ground between being perceived as self-centered or overly modest. Esteemed figures like Sandra Bullock are often praised by the public for achieving this delicate equilibrium.

▲

According to a study conducted in 2021, Roseanne Barr, a comedian known for her controversial behavior and racist tweets, has earned a place among America's most disliked comedians. She has faced public backlash and has been "canceled" twice.

▲

A poll by Buddy TV highlighted a potential "strong case for gender-based discrimination in the comedy world." This claim was supported by the fact that Amy Schumer, Ellen DeGeneres, and Roseanne Barr ranked the most disliked comedians, even following the scandal involving Bill Cosby.

▲

Buddy TV conducted a survey of 1,124 individuals, primarily millennial men. The findings revealed that despite being 'canceled' due to numerous sexual misconduct allegations, Louis C.K. was still less disliked compared to the three women in the top five.

▲

According to Pamela B. Rutledge's article in Psychology Today, criticizing celebrities can have tangible consequences. Rutledge emphasizes: "When you have a large number of followers, even a small percentage of haters create an avalanche of negative comments." While some may feel bitter towards reality TV personalities like Kim Kardashian for their seemingly undeserved achievements, expressing online hatred is unwarranted.

▲

According to Bowling Green State University professor and chair of Popular Culture, Jeffrey Brown, fixating on our disdain for a celebrity is a pointless endeavor. Brown asserts: "Sitting and fuming about a celebrity you hate is the definition of futile. It's not going to make that celebrity go away." Perhaps it's time to obliterate hate and instead embrace a more positive approach?

Sources: (USA Today) (Psychology Today)

▲

Certain celebrities evoke positive emotions from the public, while others invite criticism due to their problematic actions or statements. Additionally, there are famous individuals who simply tend to annoy people without any overt wrongdoings. Why do we experience such extreme responses towards celebrities? What causes people to be irritated by Anne Hathaway but adore Paul Rudd?

Explore this gallery to discover the reasons behind these contrasting reactions. Click on to get started.