Why Social Media Guarantees Celebrity Controversy

8. The Role of Parasocial Relationships in Heightening Outrage
The intensity of social media controversies is inextricably linked to the parasocial relationships that fans form with celebrities. Because stars directly share elements of their lives, followers develop an illusion of intimacy and personal connection, viewing the celebrity as a friend or trusted confidante. When the celebrity then says or does something controversial, it is not merely a public figure making a mistake; it is perceived as a personal betrayal of that illusionary bond. This perceived treachery fuels a more intense, emotional, and aggressive form of backlash than controversies sparked by distant, traditional media figures, making the resulting outrage disproportionately high.