A celebrity is generally a person in a society who is famous or known by the widest number of people in that society.
In a media society, fame is usually generated by the media. However, sometimes people can become famous even though they don't go into the media.
Generally the word celebrity is associated with the celebrated. However, celebrities can be defamed. Some celebrities can be restored to fame. Some celebrities can even become infamous.
Most celebrities are likable. But even "non-likable" celebrities often have charisma, even if of the "anti-heroic" sort.
Celebrities and public figures are not private people. They are public figures. Public figures have to decide how much of the private man should go into the public world. Sometimes they do not decide upon this. Often celebrity journalists invade the privacy of celebrities.
Celebrities often become experts at dealing with controversy, especially when they are controversial.
Celebrities who study celebrity can also become experts at being celebrities.
There is also a social psychology of celebrity. Celebrities and their fans are learning more and more about the role of celebrities and the role of fans in society.
