These Celebs Released Creative PSAs to Inspire the Public
In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, many celebrities have committed to using their star power to educate and inspire the public. On every social media platform, you can find a wide variety of famous faces, from Instagram influencers, A-list actors, and even royalty, pitching in to help spread the world. Whether they’re sharing critical information about safety and hygiene, or telling their personal stories so that the public feels less alone, these stars are going way beyond the call of duty to help out during this challenging time.
Social distancing with the Terminator
Arnold Schwarzenegger has one of the most impressive (and diverse) resumes on the planet. The champion bodybuilder turned Hollywood action star can be credited as Mr. Olympia, the original Terminator, and the one-time governor of California.
Not surprisingly, he has a massive following on social media, with a Twitter account boasting a whopping 4.6 million followers. But rather than promoting a workout regimen, Schwarzenegger decided to release his own Public Service Announcement encouraging social distancing.
The Twitter video, featuring Schwarzenegger feeding his Shetland pony Lulu and donkey Whiskey at his dining room table, immediately went viral. While nuzzling his “girls,” he reminded the public to listen to the experts, stay at home to flatten the curve, and enjoy time with their families. He even playfully referred to his status as a member of a high-risk group. “Especially for someone who is 72 years old,” he said, referring to himself, “We don’t go out of the house anymore. After you’re 65, you’re not allowed [to be] out of the house in California.”
Stay at home as much as possible. Listen to the experts, ignore the morons (foreheads). We will get through this together. pic.twitter.com/FRg41QehuB
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) March 16, 2020
On Twitter alone, the video has garnered over 13 million views, demonstrating how star power can be used to get an important message to the public.
A reminder from royalty
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, better known as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, are certainly no strangers to the limelight or championing charitable causes. With over 11 million followers on their @Sussexroyal Instagram account, the dynamic duo have used their influence to promote literacy initiatives, an athletic competition for disabled veterans, and Australian wildfire relief.
But this time around, the royals are promoting the WHO’s guidelines for stopping the spread of the virus. In a multiple photo post, the couple posted an infographic reminding the public to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching their faces, and to practice social distancing. The post included photos of healthcare workers around the world, holding signs asking the public to stay at home.
Viral rebranding
British pop star Rita Ora, best known for her work with rappers like Iggy Azalea and Charli XCX, is used to switching up her look. Judging by her frequent public appearances sporting outlandish wigs, Ora is never afraid to experiment with a new aesthetic.
But this time, in light of the Coronavirus pandemic, Ora has launched a new line of merchandise, in partnership with the WHO and UN Foundation. Profits from the sale of the merchandise will go directly to the UN-sponsored COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.
The merchandise includes T-shirts, hoodies, hats and stickers emblazoned with a virus logo and text reading, “Stop the spread, play your part.” Ora has over 16 million followers on Instagram, and by promoting these products on her profile, she’s giving the charity fundraiser a major boost. Not to mention that endorsing the merchandise lends it a “cool factor,” which will hopefully lead to tons of purchases and millions of dollars raised for the fund.
Celebrities are incredibly influential in today’s world, and it’s reassuring to see that they are taking their responsibilities seriously. Using their enormous platforms to spread the word and save lives is an incredible way to give back. And seeing that stars are also concerned about the crisis makes us remember that the entire planet is united in the battle against the pandemic. Famous or not, we are all in this together.
