The rainy weather didn’t dampen the spirits of Oakland residents who gathered for a look-alike contest of their hometown movie star Zendaya. The event drew fans and doppelgangers alike, with contestant Zainab Bansfield ultimately taking home the prize. Similar contests for celebrities like Timothee Chalamet and Dev Patel have been gaining popularity on social media, with the trend now making its way to San Francisco.
Cal State East Bay communications professor Nolan Higdon believes the trend reflects society’s obsession with fame and the ability of social media to make people feel famous. Despite the criticisms of promoting misogyny and unattainable beauty standards, event organizer Cassi Simms emphasized that the Zendaya contest focused on capturing the essence and vibe of the actress, not just her physical appearance.
The event provided a space for people to come together, have fun, and celebrate the diverse range of characters Zendaya has portrayed in her career. Simms, a black woman herself, aimed to create a positive and inclusive environment for fans to connect and enjoy themselves. While the real Zendaya was not in attendance, the event was a success, offering joy and connection to participants and fans worldwide.
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Photo credit www.nbcnewyork.com
