A celebrity lookalike epidemic has taken the world by storm in 2024. It wasn't something we expected, but it has brought a unique and fascinating phenomenon to the forefront. Our fascination with doppelgangers isn't new; it has been a part of our culture for a long time. Remember the viral 'Kate Moss' McDonalds moment last year? Fans were disappointed but not surprised to learn it was her lookalike Denise Ohnona instead. And this year, Ohnona took it to another level by walking the Marine Serre show at Paris Fashion Week.

Timothée Chalamet's Contest: A Riotous Success

This October, a revolution-sparking lookalike event emerged in New York, attended not only by thousands but by Timothée Chalamet himself. It was a truly remarkable success, but the cops had to shut it down just as Chalamet joined the party. Since then, amateur contests have been popping up around the world, with people hunting for the best fake Harry Styles, Jeremy Allen White, Paul Mescal, and more. From Chicago to Dublin, fans are gathering to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrity lookalike, despite the fact that most entrants only resemble the celeb's third cousin twice removed.

Perception and Curiosity

When our friend says someone looks like us, we can't help but be curious. We turn around and scan the street, wondering if it's really us. This curiosity about how others perceive us is a deep part of our human nature. Chalamet's attendance at his own lookalike competition shows that even celebrities are curious about how they are seen by others. But as a celebrity with more at stake, there may be a fear of being overshadowed by a more wacky lookalike. In the end, there is only one Timothée Chalamet, but the experience was still a lot of fun.

Fandom and Connection

The top prize in these contests is only $50, but that's not the point. These contests are about fandoms coming together, connecting with like-minded people, and sharing stories. Saskia Kemsley, a journalist and judge of the Styles lookalike contest, says it was simply a fun group of people looking for something comedic and joyful. It's about celebrating the celebrity and each other. Whether it's the first time seeing the real Harry Styles in concert or the actual Jeremy Allen White walking into a farm or firehouse, these moments bring people together.

Lack of Female Representation

One downside of these contests is the lack of female representation. Last week, fans gathered in Oakland to find the best Zendaya doppelganger, but there are still not enough opportunities for women. As X user @DixPeyton pointed out, lookalike contests for women may end badly because people hate women. But it's time we assume that inherent male confidence and embrace our own likeness to our favorite celebrity ladies. Going to a lookalike contest can be a great day out, and who knows, we might even see the real celebrity there.