Which theorist is associated with Star Theory of Celebrity and the star as image, commodity, and ideology?

• A. Dyer
• B. Hall
• C. Said
• D. Gilroy

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how celebrities are constructed and functioning in media as layered constructs—an image that is marketed as a product and carries social meanings. Richard Dyer is the theorist who develops this three-part view: the star as image, the star as commodity, and the star as ideology.

The star as image refers to the carefully crafted persona seen on screen and in publicity, built through performances, styling, and media representation. The star as commodity explains how that persona is packaged and sold—film rights, endorsements, posters, merchandise—turning the celebrity into a marketable product. The star as ideology shows the beliefs and values encoded in the star’s persona and narratives, which can reinforce or challenge social norms, such as ideas about gender, sexuality, and consumer culture.

For example, a glamorous film star is presented with a highly stylized image, is marketed across various media as a sellable product, and the persona often embodies and disseminates broader cultural ideologies. While other scholars like Hall, Said, and Gilroy are essential to different streams of media and cultural analysis, the specific framework of star as image, commodity, and ideology is associated with Richard Dyer.