Let’s face it, many of us dream about the perks that come with fame. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Being a popular person comes with its own set of challenges and situations that those of us in the background don’t experience. One of these is when a stranger asks for a photo on the street.
We all know someone who could fill an entire album with selfies alongside famous people they meet throughout their life. And if it’s someone you admire, it’s natural to want a keepsake to remind you that it wasn’t just a dream.
For many celebrities, this part of fame is enjoyable, and they actively engage with their fans. But there are also those who prefer not to take photos with strangers, even if it might seem like a simple request.
The thing is, since most of us don’t know what it’s like to constantly take photos with strangers, we need to be empathetic. There are times when even we’re not in the mood, and we can’t stand ourselves. So, who are some of the celebrities who choose not to take photos with fans?
Kayleigh Rose Amstutz has experienced a major shift in her life, going from an emerging artist to a well-known singer. In just a few months, she’s seen her fanbase grow significantly. But with great success comes not only responsibility but also a lot of patience. Since Chappel is now in the public eye, every move she makes is being watched closely. And, as we know, she hasn’t always handled the attention well.
Chappel has also spoken out against people who ask her for photos at inappropriate times, as well as the criticism she faces when she refuses. ‘I’m just a normal girl, and you’re just a normal girl.’ The singer continued in another video, explaining that, although she’s a musician, she shouldn’t have to put up with that kind of behavior.
Chappell Roan talks about the mistreatment she’s been receiving from fans:
“I don’t care that abuse and harassment and stalking is a normal thing to do to people who are famous or a little famous…That does not make it okay. That does not make it normal.” pic.twitter.com/SoHGVClUiB
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) August 19, 2024
Dua Lipa has a similar experience to Chappell when it comes to fame. She went from being an up-and-coming artist to an international superstar. While it didn’t happen overnight—there was a lot of hard work involved—it can certainly feel that way. Because of this, the singer makes a conscious effort to keep her personal and family life separate from her public persona.
She’s gone viral on several occasions for turning down photos when she’s out as a ‘regular person’ on the streets or enjoying a vacation with her family.
Dua lipa no se tomo fotos con fans porque estaba conociendo Rio De Janeiro con su familia!pic.twitter.com/59FJ4d0eNz
— DUA LIPA ARGENTINA | Fan Account (@dualipanoticia) September 10, 2022
The actress has explained why she often declines taking photos on the street. She shared this with InStyle magazine, clarifying that she refuses to take pictures when she’s off the clock, which she admits “offends a lot of people.”
“It doesn’t mean I’m not appreciative, of course, that people are fans, or happy to see me. But I always say to people, ‘I’m not working.’ [And that means] I don’t want to be identified as being in this time and place with you. I’m doing my own thing.”
Scarlett has openly addressed this somewhat sensitive topic, which often comes with criticism. While her answer isn’t always a strict “no,” if she’s in a professional setting—like at premieres, events, or TV shows—she’s more than happy to take photos with her fans.
In short: If she’s in a professional environment, feel free to ask Scarlett Johansson for a picture. But if she’s out buying bread or enjoying a coffee, it’s better not to ask.
The Guardians of the Galaxy actor explained to US Weekly why he refuses to take photos with his fans. “If I go out and want to do normal things, I have to be comfortable disappointing people. So I just don’t take pictures with people. Because that’s not about enjoying the moment; it’s about stealing the moment to brag about later. So I say, ‘Would you settle for a handshake?’ And then they take the picture anyway.”
The Joker actor commented on taking photos with fans, mentioning that a woman once asked him for a photo. “I said, ‘You know what? I don’t do that, but thanks so much for coming up. We chatted a bit. It was fun. Then she went and bought her tube socks, and I bought my stupid little sweatpants, and that was it.”
This way, these artists maintain their personal privacy and do their best to keep their career and personal life separate.