30+ People Share Their Entertaining Stories About Working With Celebrities
Redditors shared their experiences working for and with the rich and famous
There are countless jobs that seem interesting and cool to do. Depending on who you are, there will be different types of jobs that would be more appealing than others.
Some folks interested in ocean life and the vast unknowns of the deep would likely find Marine Biology a pretty sweet gig. Others, like myself, are so deeply terrified of open water that anything having to do with a boat would be a nightmare of a job.
Others love the hustle and bustle of the entertainment industry. Putting themselves out there, getting names, and getting noticed.
Or maybe you don’t want to be in the spotlight, but next to it. An ideal job in such situations would be an assistant to celebrities.
You’d get to meet some of your own favorite stars, get into exclusive parties and places, see how the rich and famous live their lives. Maybe even receive some extra bonuses or rad gifts.
I mean, at least that’s what one would assume. But, there is a LOT that we don’t know about working for or with celebrities.
That’s where our favorite online forum, Reddit, comes in. One Reddit user decided to take it upon themselves to pose the question on the popular r/AskReddit community.
“Redditors who have worked with celebrities, what are they really like?” This prompt inspired many interesting and entertaining stories about all sorts of celebrities.
Commenters shared their own personal encounters and even some juicy details about how these superstars live. And what they are like to those who don’t share the same notoriety.
We’ve collected 30+ stories from this thread. Keep reading to see what others may have experienced, maybe your favorite celeb shows up!
The Question that inspired the fun
RedditDanny DeVito
"I waited on Danny DeVito, he got incredibly drunk on limoncello but was the nicest man and signed my check pad. Ditto Chase and Jen Utley."
giphyBarbra Streisand
"I was accidentally cc'd in an email chain with Barbara Streisand. Her grammar seemed fine to me," reflects the unexpected nature of celebrity interactions. As Dr. Robert Cialdini, a renowned influence researcher, states, "The way we communicate can greatly affect our perceptions of others, even in casual settings." You can explore more about his insights on influence at Dr. Robert Cialdini's website.
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The Influence of Celebrity Culture
The desire to work with celebrities often stems from societal admiration and the allure of fame, which can create unrealistic expectations about personal and professional interactions. Research from the University of Pennsylvania highlights how celebrity culture can lead to the phenomenon known as 'celebrity worship syndrome,' where individuals develop intense, obsessive feelings toward celebrities, often at the expense of their own well-being and relationships. This psychological attachment can impact those who work with celebrities as they might feel the pressure to conform to the celebrity's lifestyle or expectations, leading to emotional distress.
Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Social Psychology suggests that this admiration can warp perceptions of self-worth, causing individuals to compare themselves unfavorably against the seemingly glamorous lives of celebrities. It's essential for those in the entertainment industry to maintain a healthy perspective and recognize that behind the glitz, celebrities are also human, with their own struggles.
Nicolas Cage
"I was a stand-in for a Nicolas Cage film. He mostly kept to himself and would walk around with a cigar being all Nic Cage-like. During one fight scene, there was a small amount of fire involved and something went wrong. He got super angry and started yelling at everyone. It was awesome," shared a production assistant. As Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, notes, "Intense emotions can surface in high-pressure environments, especially in creative fields like film." For more insights on human behavior in stressful situations, visit her website at helenfisher.com.
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Lindsay Lohan
"Worked in private clubs/nightlife in NYC for three years. Met quite a few celebrities, but the two takeaways I remember most easily;
Lindsay Lohan listens to the worst fucking music. Seriously, deplorable. She also won't let anyone else DJ. But goddamn she danced for about 11 hours straight.
Stevie J from Love and Hip-Hop and his girlfriend/fiancee? are really cool. Actually very nice, very funny, and very in love. They genuinely find the fake fights and tension on their show humorous"
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Jennifer Lopez
"I worked at Sirius Radio, the most notable encounters I had.
Dee Snider : Hard worker, hustler
P. Diddy : Demanding asshole prone to temper tantrums
Sam Jackson : Personable & funny
J-Lo : Always angry and in a hurry
Diamond Dallas Page : Funny guy, always on
Mick Foley : Friendly wise ass
Wes Craven : Nice to everyone, even interns"
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Working with high-profile individuals also involves navigating complex interpersonal dynamics, which can be fraught with stress and pressure. According to a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, professionals in high-stakes environments often experience heightened anxiety levels due to the expectations placed on them. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as perfectionism or burnout, particularly when individuals feel they must meet the constantly changing demands of a celebrity client.
Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion can be beneficial in these situations. Research shows that mindfulness techniques can significantly reduce stress levels, allowing individuals to focus on the present moment rather than fixating on perceived future failures. Implementing regular mindfulness practices could help mitigate the anxiety associated with working in such high-pressure environments.
Eminem
"I landscaped Eminem's house, one of, if not the coolest guy I've ever met. He would come out probably every hour or so and ask how we were doing, offered to get us bottles of water or sodas. Talked to him about Detroit Tigers baseball for a little bit. Really down to earth humble guy," said a worker reflecting on their experience. According to Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, "Humility is a key trait in successful relationships, as it fosters connection and understanding." For more insights on relationships and humility, visit Dr. Helen Fisher's website.
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Drew Barrymore
"I've done a lot of work on houses for celebrities, and most of the time you won't ever see them and will only deal with an assistant. That being said, Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a renowned relationship therapist, notes, 'The homes of celebrities often reflect their unique personalities and lifestyles, which can be surprisingly relatable.' In my experience, Jane Lynch is a lovely lady, and Drew Barrymore has the most normal-feeling house of a celebrity I've ever seen—so many shoes, though! As Dr. Solomon points out, 'Celebrity homes can often feel like a blend of glamour and authenticity.' Also, Michael Jackson's house is undeniably creepy."
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Kellie Martin
"Worked with Kellie Martin and Samm Levine years ago on a short film. Kellie is one of the sweetest people I've ever met, which totally took me a back for someone who grew up on TV. (Google Life Goes On, kids.)
Samm Levine would play poker with the crew in between takes. Really nice guy. It always makes me happy when he pops up on something because I know what a fun hang he is."
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The Role of Social Comparison
The phenomenon of social comparison theory shows that individuals often assess their own worth based on the perceived successes of others, a tendency that can be particularly pronounced in the entertainment industry. According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, this comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially when working alongside highly successful celebrities.
To counteract this, it's crucial for individuals to cultivate a sense of self-worth that is independent of external validation. Developing a personal set of criteria for success, rather than relying on societal standards, can foster resilience and self-acceptance. Engaging in personal growth activities, such as setting and achieving personal goals, can also help reinforce a positive self-image.
Darius Rucker
"I had the opportunity to work with a celebrity, and it was quite the experience. According to Dr. Paul Bloom, a psychology professor, 'Interactions with high-profile individuals can often reveal their true character, which may not align with public perception.' This sentiment resonates with many who have had similar encounters in the entertainment industry. It's essential to remember that fame does not always equate to kindness or humility." - Dr. Paul Bloom
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Woody Allen
"Owner/operator of nightclub restaurant in a major city. There are so many, this may be redundant as its imo but...
Some of the actors from Sopranos - They were *off the page mob cliche
Many Basketball players - Specifically Paul Pierce , very low key and humble.
Howard Stern crew - Ronnie is a fucking lunatic, Howard is extremely generous very shy and his wife is beautiful in every way possible
Woody Allen (loves Jazz and basketball) though i've only met him 3 times he's the kind of guy who remembers your name etc. He doesn't smile much but its deceptive as he seems really happy in general.
Raymond Scott Benzino is fucking asshole and belongs in jail
Sean Combs loves English people , crystal and thug passions ...its a long story
Bobby Brown likes to dress down and dance all night by himself...he loves heineken and was very nice to staff and never asked for vip etc etc The loss of Whitney clearly devastated him.
tl;dr the sopranos are the sopranos IRL
Edit : Off vs Of aka I'm an illiterate douche"
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Michael McDonald
"Server in a fairly classy place. Have met a few notable people.
Michael McDonald (actor) extremely down to earth and nice as can be, offered me tickets to his comedy act.
Don Cheadle was kind of a prick, he didn't show much respect my way (why would he). Also very short and had halitosis. His wife was young and incredibly sweet as was the rest of his family.
The portion of the Boston Red Sox I took care of (coaches, players, and trainers) were extremely kind, laid back, and pretty funny. The coach gave my manager free tickets to the game since he's a huge fan.
George Takei has a fabulous entourage and is a great guy."
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The impact of celebrity interactions often extends beyond individual mental health, influencing broader social dynamics. A study from UCLA found that people working in entertainment frequently report feeling a sense of disconnection from their peers as they navigate a world that feels entirely different from the everyday experiences of most individuals. This disconnection can lead to feelings of isolation or alienation, particularly when they are unable to relate their work experiences to friends and family.
To build a supportive community, professionals should seek out peer groups that understand the unique challenges of working in the entertainment industry. Regularly engaging with colleagues for networking and support can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation, which is crucial for mental well-being.
P!nk
"I used to work in a super fancy very expensive high end restaurant when I lived in LA (Beverly Hills, go figure). Anyway, I met P!nk once, she was so nice! She tipped $100 and didn't mind when people asked for a picture or something, her daughter was with her too and the kid was so polite for such a young age. Jessica Simpson can go suck a dick, although I'm sure she's lost count on how many times she's done that. She was insanely self entitled, called each of the servers her 'slave' and various other names, just an all around bitch. Other celebrities came in and they were all polite but it's been a couple years"
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India Arie
"I had a chance to sit in on a recording session with India Arie. A four-time Grammy winner, she embodies beauty and talent, and is as down to earth, kind, and gracious as any person I've ever met. Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author, emphasizes the importance of character and kindness, stating, 'Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.' This perfectly captures the essence of India Arie's spirit."
An angel on Earth.
Joe Pesci
"My mom used to work for someone in Edgewater NJ and would often go outside for a cigarette break. She said everyday or so she would say hi to a guy with a hat and a nice big dog. This went on for 3 months or so and one day the guy comes up to her on say goodbye because he was leaving. He goes "Miss, do you know I'm Joe Pesci?". She had no idea and said he was super nice and polite and we all think they were such good friends because she didn't recognize him."
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Coping with Fame and Pressure
Many individuals working with celebrities face the challenge of managing their own identities in the shadow of fame. According to Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, vulnerability is often perceived as a weakness in high-pressure environments, leading to a culture of silence regarding emotional struggles. This can be particularly damaging, as it prevents individuals from seeking help or expressing their needs.
Encouraging open dialogues about mental health within the workplace can help break this cycle. Organizations can implement mental health days, workshops, or peer support systems that normalize vulnerability and promote emotional well-being. Studies show that fostering an environment that values mental health leads to more engaged and productive teams.
Kevin Jonas
"I haven't worked with him and I guess he's not that famous anymore, but Kevin Jonas used to come into a small shop where I worked part-time. He was always really nice and would always take pictures with fangirls and such. As Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, notes, 'Celebrities often have a unique ability to connect with fans, which can create memorable interactions.' This kind of engagement can leave a lasting impression, as I experienced when he complimented my shoes once lol." Dr. Helen Fisher
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Katy Perry
"had the chance to be a part of the visual/dance ensemble in the 2015 Super Bowl half time show. Katy Perry was a total bitch. still love her though."
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Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne
"My dad runs a company that does security and production for concerts. If there's been a band or a famous person that needs a stage in our town, he's met them. Zoe Deschanel doesn't. allow stage hands to make eye contact with her. Reba McIntyre travels around backstage in one of those typical looking stages cases, so she doesn't get stopped by fans. That kinda bluegrassy band that plays Timshel but who's name escapes me are apparently some of the biggest douchebags he's met. On the other hand, Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne chose to ate dinner with all the stage hands, apparently they're super nice. Def Leppard was bored one day and invited a bunch of the guys to play softball with em. The list goes on.
EDIT: Mumford and Sons is the name of the "kinda bluegrassy" band."
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Additionally, the unpredictability of working with celebrities can trigger anxiety and stress. A 2021 study from the University of Michigan indicates that individuals in unpredictable work environments often experience chronic stress due to a lack of control over their circumstances. This can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction, especially when the demands of the job conflict with personal values or life balance.
To address this, it's beneficial for professionals to implement time management techniques that prioritize self-care and work-life balance. Setting clear boundaries around work hours and engaging in regular physical activity can greatly alleviate the stress associated with high-pressure jobs.
Charles Barkley
"Charles Barkley is a genuinely kind individual, as noted by Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, who states, 'Authenticity in our interactions, especially with those in the public eye, can reveal their true character.' I was the host at an Italian restaurant when he, his wife, and two children came in. He took the time to shake my hand (as the host, I felt quite honored) and expressed his gratitude for being seated away from the crowd. He even waited for the kitchen crew to retrieve basketballs from their cars to sign. The outspoken persona he displays on the court and TV is a role he plays, but it’s clear that he has a warm heart." Dr. Susan David
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Matt Damon
"Matt Damon stands out among the lot. He is the most down to earth actor I have ever been on set with. We chatted like old college buddies on the middle of a glacier each morning. If you are reading this Matt, you and the family welcome to come back anytime for a visit."
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John Leguizamo
"John Leguizamo is just a really nice guy.
I worked at a post production facility that was doing a sound mix for him last year and he was just all around really nice."
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Navigating Power Dynamics
Working with celebrities often involves navigating intricate power dynamics that can lead to feelings of intimidation or inadequacy. Research conducted at Stanford University suggests that power imbalances in workplace settings can significantly impact an individual's confidence and decision-making abilities. This phenomenon can be particularly evident in the entertainment industry, where individuals may feel overshadowed by the star power of their clients.
To mitigate these feelings, professionals should focus on developing assertiveness skills. Training programs that teach negotiation and communication skills can empower individuals to express their needs and opinions confidently, even in the presence of more powerful figures. This not only enhances personal agency but also improves workplace relationships.
Jeff Goldblum
"So I've done a fair bit of work as an extra, occasionally getting to be on set with a few famous people. We're not allowed to just go up and chat to the talent, but from the interactions I've had:
Jeff Goldblum, cool as fuck in person.
Kevin Kline, kind of a dick.
Morena Baccarin, seemed nice enough."
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Britney Spears
"My old guild leader was a music producer. At the time he hadn't done anything big and assured us we didn't know his work. After I pressed him a bit for info he told us he had just done a Britney Spears (post K-Fed) song and didn't want to say anything because he didn't want the guild to make fun of him. The album hadn't been released yet but he was really hoping it would make the album. I could tell he was pretty excited about it.
He had only talked to Britney on the phone, which he said was amazing because she didn't even really need to contact him. She thanked him for his work and was very appreciative. Not sure if his song ever made it on the album as I had stopped playing shortly after. I hope it did."
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Zach Galifianakis
"I did security detail for Zach Galifinakis and he is an anti social burnout that spends all day playing video games in his trailer while he smokes weed. Every day for a two weeks he just came out to eat and didn't speak much to anyone."
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Moreover, the emotional labor involved in working with celebrities can lead to compassion fatigue, a phenomenon recognized by mental health professionals. According to research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, compassion fatigue occurs when caregivers or service providers become emotionally drained from constantly managing others’ emotional needs. This is particularly relevant in the entertainment industry, where professionals often prioritize the emotional states of their clients over their own.
To combat compassion fatigue, it's crucial for individuals to establish self-care routines that prioritize their own mental health. Engaging in regular reflective practices, such as journaling or therapy, can help individuals process their experiences and restore emotional balance.
Richard Karn
"I was in a commercial with Richard Carne (Al from Home Improvement). Super super nice guy. We got to meet a mountain lion in that shoot," says a participant reflecting on their experience. According to Dr. Ian Kerner, a renowned sex therapist, "Working with celebrities can be both exhilarating and intimidating, but it's important to remember that they are just people too." For more insights on relationships and celebrity interactions, visit Dr. Ian Kerner's website.
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Robin Williams
"I was an extra on the set of a very bad movie, "A Merry Friggin' Christmas." That said, Robin Williams was incredibly nice and rather subdued. Spent a lot of the downtime playing with a couple of the smaller kid actors, kinda like Cool Uncle Robin. Wendi McClendon-Covey was also very down to earth and nice. And Joel McHale is tall. I guess he's nice. Didn't get a chance to chat with him."
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Nickelback
"As an audio engineer I have worked with countless names including Justin Timberlake, Bieber, Metallica, Slayer, Diplo, Frank Ocean, Ariana Grande, Imagine Dragons, Steven Stills, Skrillex, Linkin Park and so so many more. The one story I always like to bring up is working with Nickelback. I was told they would be with me for a week and my first reaction was "great, just what I needed on my resume /s." I won't leave you all in suspense. They were by far my favorite band to ever work with. Usually in every band, there is one guy who is a total dick hole. First, the drummer shows up. He starts setting up his kit and is just the nicest dude. He asks me all sorts of questions about my life and shows a genuine interest in who I am as a person. One by one, the rest of the band rolls in each one as nice or nicer than the last. I used to play in a shitty metal band and every one of the guys is into metal and we have a great convo about music in general. Finally the whole band is there but Chad, so I think, well he's the one then. He's the dick. Chad finally comes strolling in and he's the nicest one of them all. They're all Canadian and the Stanley Cup finals are on. They just wanna drink beer and hang out and make music. At one point, Chad even does an impression of Patton Oswalt doing an impression of him, which by the way, was spot on. They laugh at people making fun of them because well, they are making music for a living and having a great life. They like music, chicks and money and making Nickelback songs is how they live. They like what they do and have no shame. All around they were one of my favorite experiences in the music industry. 10/10 would work with again."
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Building Resilience
Resilience is a vital trait for anyone working in the demanding environment of celebrity culture. Research from the University of Toronto shows that resilience can be cultivated through positive coping strategies and supportive relationships. Those who develop strong social networks and practice stress management techniques are better able to bounce back from challenges and setbacks.
Professionals should aim to stay connected with friends and family outside the industry, as these relationships can provide grounding and perspective. Participating in resilience training programs or workshops can also equip individuals with the tools necessary to handle the pressures of their work environment more effectively.
Aaron Paul
"Aaron Paul comes into the restaurant I work at whenever he's in town. I work in the kitchen so I don't interact with him directly, but the servers tell me that he's very humble and low-key, doesn't attract attention when he comes in, sits with a small entourage and is genuinely pleasant to be around. He tips well and tries to take a picture with every fan who asks. He looked to the kitchen and kinda thank you-waved to us last time he was in. I was kind of awestruck at how handsome he is. I know he's a hollywood actor, but I didn't expect him to look like he just rolled off a shoot where he didn't get beaten up/put into slavery."
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George Carlin
"Not me, but my dad, works backstage at a major theater in New Jersey. They are not allowed to ask for or receive autographs from guest performers. Every time George Carlin appeared there he would "accidentally" leave signed copies of his books behind for the crew."
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Donald Faison
"Did a movie with Donald Faison a few years ago. He acted like a jackass but he was in the middle of a lawsuit at the time," said a film industry insider. According to Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a renowned happiness researcher, "Stressful situations can lead to unexpected behavior, particularly in high-pressure environments like film sets." For more insights on managing stress in professional settings, visit Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar's website.
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The Importance of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a significant role in effectively managing relationships in high-stakes environments like celebrity work. Studies indicate that individuals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships, as they are more adept at recognizing and regulating their own emotions while empathizing with others. According to research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, higher EI is correlated with better job performance and job satisfaction.
Training workshops focusing on emotional intelligence can be beneficial for those in the entertainment industry. By enhancing EI skills, professionals can not only improve their communication and conflict resolution abilities but also foster a healthier workplace culture.
Neil Gaiman
"I used to read scripts for the Austin Film Festival, which would earn me a pass for the writing panels and film screenings for the festival itself. I didn't work with the guests directly but they were pretty approachable, especially after panels and screening Q&A's.
Ernie Hudson, Harry Anderson (of Night Court fame) and Neil Gaiman stand out particularly as being very gracious and friendly. I chatted with Hudson after a screening of a small indie movie he was in and he couldn't have been friendlier. He signed my Ghostbusters II DVD.
Neil Gaiman stayed to sign autographs after a late screening of the film Princess Mononoke, which he wrote the English-language script for. He was also very gracious to every single fan. Got him to sign one of my Sandman trade paperbacks"
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Nicki Minaj
"A friend of mine worked at a hotel for a while as a summer job. Nicki Minaj was touring at the time and she stayed at the hotel. The manager(s) had to brief the entire staff to treat her in different ways according to the color of wig she was wearing. As relationship expert Dr. Alexandra Solomon notes, "Understanding the nuances of personality can be crucial in high-stakes environments, especially when dealing with celebrities." My friend didn't end up interacting with her."
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Shakira
"Not my own experience but my accidental bodyguard's:
Shakira is beyond self-absorbed. She got driven around a golf cart and made him run alongside it the entire time
The Coldplay guys are fantastic and down to earth
Justin Bieber was... well, exactly how you'd expect him to be. Bodyguard eventually got so fed up with him that he ended up screwing around with him a couple times to get payback"
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Lily Tomlin
"I had the opportunity to be a chauffeur for Lilly Tomlin a couple of times. She was on the phone 99% of the time she was in the car and was definitely all business. However, she was not stuck up at all and was genuinely nice when she got in and out of the car. As Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, notes, 'Celebrities are often under immense pressure, but many remain grounded and approachable.' I also spent a day at Jay Leno's Garage during one of his video shoots, and he was a very down-to-earth, nice guy."
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Werner Herzog
"Worked with Werner Herzog. He is a complicated man. If he were a normal human man, he would sound unbelievably arrogant when you're just talking to him, but when you keep in mind who he is and what he's done, you realize he just has no reason other than to be completely honest about what he believes, which is weird compared to other people you talk to in Hollywood (and really people in general). It's also really weird, yet amazing, talking to someone who is an actual genius at their craft. I've never had anyone encourage me to read poetry more than that man."
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Peter Frampton
"I was backstage manager for Peter Frampton at one of his shows when he first moved to Nashville. He is shorter than you expect, but larger than life on stage. One of his guitars, a black triple-humbucker Gibson Les Paul, survived a plane crash and has the burns to prove it. Frampton is a humble, genuine and talented guy," says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist. "His authenticity resonates with fans and colleagues alike, making him a beloved figure in the music industry."
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And what about you?
Do you have any experiences to share? Have you ever met someone famous or worked for them?
Do you know someone who has? Get the gossip and let us know in the comments!
And share this article with your friends and family. Maybe you'll stir up some entertaining stories within your social group!
Psychological Analysis
The stories shared by Reddit users about their experiences with celebrities highlight a fascinating psychological dynamic: the allure of fame can often lead to unrealistic expectations and social comparisons. People may idolize celebrities, projecting their own desires for validation and success onto them, which can result in feelings of inadequacy when they don't measure up. Additionally, working alongside high-profile individuals can create intense pressure, leading to anxiety and emotional fatigue, making it essential for these professionals to prioritize self-care and develop strong support networks.
Analysis generated by AI
Clinical Perspective & Next Steps
In conclusion, the experiences of those working with celebrities reveal a complex interplay of psychological factors that can significantly impact mental health and job satisfaction. While the allure of the entertainment industry can be enticing, it's crucial for professionals to recognize the unique challenges they may face, including social comparison, emotional labor, and power dynamics.
Strategies such as developing emotional intelligence, establishing supportive networks, and practicing self-care can help mitigate these challenges. Ultimately, fostering a culture that values mental well-being and open communication will not only enhance individual resilience but also contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.
