Jennifer Aniston is one of my favorite celebrities to follow.  I do not do it often, but when I am at the gym I enjoy reading the magazines about celebs.  It is fascinating to know what they are up to, not all of them, but certain ones like Aniston.  I chose to follow her simply because of her interesting life.  She was the most popular character on, which arguably could be one of the greatest TV shows of all time, Friends and enjoyed several great seasons with a remarkable cast.  She was on top and the fame and glory came with it.  

All along though, she seemed so down to earth.  She was just Jen or "Rachel" to most people.  Then, she got hitched to Brad Pitt!  The dream couple!  Everyone loved them and they looked so good together!  The marriage lasted 7 years and was suddenly interrupted.  Her world seemed to be turned upside down as rumors spread about her husband and his playful, flirty behavior with Hollywood's bad girl, Angelina.  That must have been hard on Jen, but despite this, she never seemed quite rundown.  She must have endured severe pain, betrayal, and heart break, but I felt that it was never enough to destroy her.  She is a strong individual and it showed, no matter how the media portrayed her.  She never ended up at any of the Hollywood stars' "retreat" centers.  She was much to strong for that.  

As I have followed the media stories regarding Jen, I have learned a lot about her as well as media.  First of all, Jen keeps to herself and it is the paparazzi that go hunting for her.  They will come up with anything to put her in the paper.  She has been connected with multiple bachelors in Hollywood, all of which are rumors.  To me, it seems that the media wants Jen to find happiness and they think she needs to find it in a man.  They are constantly pushing for her to find a new guy.  Dozens of stories headline, Jen seen with some male celebrity.  I think that the public feels for Jennifer.  They know her marriage was ruined and because she is America's good girl, they identify with her.  The good girl always deserves to win out in the end.  I think the public and the media are waiting for that win.  They want to see Jen settle down with some handsome man and "be happy".  They get so involved in her personal life and try to make changes for her through their stories.  It is as if they are creating this life for her that they wish she would adopt.  Clearly, she will not because she is her own person and is an independent and strong-willed woman.  She wants to do what she wants to do and she wants to pursue her own dreams and visions.  

Although it is nice to read how she is doing, I do feel for her when the media accuses her of being with a new man every week.  It must get tiring after a while or she must have a wonderful support group who look after her and keep her level-headed.  Whatever it is, it works and I think she does a great job of keeping grounded while always in the limelight of Hollywood.  She is America's "good girl" and she plays it well.

Thoughts

So, after writing that post, it got me thinking about what makes Jen Aniston so great.  How can she balance being famous and being down-to-earth?  I wonder if it has something to do with the celebrity machine?  It obviously affects people differently.  I'm not positive because I am not present during the "make over" from ordinary to star quality, but I wonder if the amount of time spent in the "makeover" aspect of the machine has a serious impact?  Every star goes through the machine but some people seem to remain somewhat normal.  I look at Jen and her journey.  She did have that nose surgery years ago, the deviated septum, which changed her physical features.  I feel like that is the only type of pressure she endured or at least what the media begged me to believe.  Other than that, she seems to be able to lead a somewhat balanced life.  Even with her split from Brad Pitt, she still "survived".  Although tabloids dogged her for months, and they still do, we never heard that "Jen seeks treatment at..."  She never seemed to crack under the pressure like so many stars do (Owen Wilson, Britney Spears, just to name a few).  It made me question as to why this is?  What makes Jen so much stronger than these other stars?  She clearly suffered a mighty blow when she split with Brad.  They were Hollywood's Golden Couple.  They were the "perfect couple"; the duo everyone wanted to be.  The couple everyone loved and adored.  She definitely realized how much she meant to people and the relationship especially.  That is surely a pressure situation and it is remarkable that she has come this far.  I find Aniston to be a great role model and a person that people can definitely relate to.  It must be why she is dubbed America's "good girl".

Just some thoughts

So, there hasn't been too much about Jen in the news lately.  She keeps a pretty low profile until her movies are released.  She is one of those actresses who, while still an A-lister, can keep attention to a minimum.  With her status, she could be galavanting around Hollywood.  I wonder what makes her different?  It is interesting to note how some famous stars can keep themselves grounded while in the limelight.  It is quite impressive and I think its a great quality to have.  So many stars nowadays, oh wait, they're not really stars (Paris Hilton, Kardashian girl); they just have tons of money and can afford getting the good looks.  They prance about not really doing much and just asking for constant attention.  It's annoying and silly.  I like actresses like Aniston and even Jennifer Garner, who actually have talent and make it to stardom.  They are able to remove themselves from the chaotic life of Hollywood.  They don't seem to get wrapped up in all the jazz.  I like that about them.  Despite the paparazzi attacks, they still remain level-headed and make appearances, but know how to do it and they do it well.  This is why I feel so many people respect Aniston and care about her.  She has that relatable quality that many people find comforting.  She doesn't act like she is above everyone; she is just trying to make it in the world like everyone else.  

A Baby for Aniston?

Over the weekend, it was reported that Aniston dropped $300,000 on a nursery!  A baby looks promising for the future, a baby boy in fact.  She's even decided on a name, Alexander, after her half brother, Alex.  She's excited to adopt the baby boy from an LA based adoption agency and finally, "settle down".  She loves LA and thinks it will be a great place for the baby to grow up.  This is a big step for Aniston and the press is sure to continue.  It will be interesting to see how it all pans out. 

Source:http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=92300

Time to Visit Greece

Jen is traveling to Greece to check out her roots!  Her father was born on the island of Crete and Jen has expressed her passion for learning about her cultural heritage.  Apparently her passion is real and intense....she has recently bought a DVD teaching her the Greek language.  She hopes to master this language or at least speak most of it, in 30 days.  I hope she does it!  That would be really cool and impressive.  Aniston is proud of her roots, insisting that it keeps her grounded.  Although she expressed that earlier in her career she struggled with these genes. It posed as a difficulty when trying to  conform to Hollywood's expectations.  

According to Gamson, this is a common issue that many individuals experience when they enter the "celebrity machine".  They are "raw materials" that need serious work.  They re-vamp their entire lives, from fashion sense to personality to overall look.  Everything about them seems to change and they are asked to become new people.  They are asked to let their old identity go, which includes their family lifestyles at times, their heritage, etc.  This seems apparent in every new star but once they make a name for themselves and become famous, they are able to rekindle those lost "identities".  I'm sure Jen had to suppress her Greek genes, why I don't really know or understand why, but it happened.  Now that she's a big deal in the celebrity world, she can bring her Greek pride back.  She can express her willingness to show her love for her heritage and culture.  It's a shame she had to drop it in the first place.  Individual identity is what makes you, you but as we have learned, the celebrity machine exists to manufacture what the public desires...

Source: http://entertainment.oneindia.in/hollywood/top-stories/scoop/2008/aniston-visiting-greek-roots-010408.html

Jen and celebrities...

After reading several stories regarding Jennifer Aniston, you really become aware of how hard it is to be in the celebrity business.  I know it's difficult hours and the work is stressful, but the outcomes are usually worth the work.  It's just fascinating though, to read these articles that record every little thing a celebrity does.  We hear about Jen laying in the sun. Jen's getting a haircut.   Jen went grocery shopping today!  Look, Jen has a new man (everyday)!  It's so crazy!  No wonder many celebrities seek help in remote retreats.  They media eye is always focused on them and it never tires.  You must constantly be on your game as a celebrity because you never know who's watching.  That's extremely stressful and I am sympathetic towards these individuals.  Unfortunately, they chose a profession that requires attention all day, everyday.  I wonder if when they start out with big dreams, they realize just how crazy it will be if they do make it big.  

Jen Puts an End to the Rumors!

It appears that Jennifer Aniston is getting sick and tired of her supposed "relationships" with every single man she encounters.  In a recent article, Aniston denied the newest rumor regarding her relationship with Orlando Bloom.  "Orlando is just a friend."  

This is all part of the celebrity machine.  Once you become labeled as "who you are", it sticks.  Unfortunately for Jen, her split with former husband, Brad Pitt, was her defining moment.  Every story following that heartbreak is somehow related back to her former marriage.  Although she is a successful actress, most known for her role as Rachel on Friends, Jen's former marriage is a big part of what defines her.  Celebrities are constantly tested by the public and the industry itself; they are immersed in a culture that constantly highlights the events surrounding their lives.  

Source:http://entertainment.oneindia.in/hollywood/top-stories/scoop/2008/aniston-denies-dating-bloom-110408.html

How to Travel Like Jen

In a recent People article, the reporter talked about celebrities and their travel accommodations.  Some of them hardly ever stand in security lines, whereas countless Americans can wait for hours.  Not every airport offers the VIP treatment, some insist in "regular" treatment.  Jennifer Aniston is one celebrity who travels with accommodations everywhere she goes.  Just recently she was seen surrounded by security guards as she left LAX, for fear of being trampled by a crowd of adoring fans.  Many airlines respect the celebrity's privacy and do their best to protect them, but there are others who tip off the paparazzi, just to earn a buck.  It's really unfortunate for celebrities when they are going on vacation and are unexpectedly mobbed by a swarm of fans.  They're trying to take a break from work just like everyone else, but because of their public status, it is almost impossible.  They need the extra security and even though it's insane, sometimes the extra push through the security line.  I feel that without their "special treatment" we could be standing in the security line for a veryyyy long time as people endlessly approach, demanding autographs.  

  

New Film Company for Aniston

Jennifer Aniston and her friend, filmmaker and producer, Kristen Hahn, have teamed up to create a new film company.  The company is called Echo Films and it has already lined up several projects.   The projects are based on real-life stories and books.  Aniston will be the lead role in most of these projects.  According to Gamson, many celebrities use their powerful status for personal promotion.  They use the fame they have gained to jump start their own plans and ideas.  Jen is an established actor in Hollywood who has earned the money to exercise her independence.  As Gamson discusses, the battle for control in the celebrity industry is an ongoing issue.  Aniston's decision to develop her own film company is her own way of enacting her agency on the celebrity industry.  She demonstrates independence and confidence to break from the project-to-project routine that many actors go through.  Rather, she is demonstrating her versatility and the control she holds over making her own decisions regarding movies.  

Source:http://breakingnews.iol.ie/entertainment/story.asp?j=251127024&p=z5yyz773x

Aniston and Bloom, Gettin' Cosy?

Orlando Bloom and Jennifer Aniston were seen last week at a party for Ken Paves, celebrity hairdresser.  Apparently Orlando was flagged from all sides with women, including Eva Longoria and Courteney Cox, but his gaze was fixed on Aniston.  Rumors have been surfacing about these two and a possible...secret?  Could this be the case or another Aniston-single man link?

Source: http://www.entertainmentwise.com/news/41455/jennifer-aniston--orlando-bloom-get-cosy

Dramatic Weight Loss

In recent news, Jennifer Aniston has reportedly lost 7lbs in 7 days!  What could be the result of such a dramatic decrease in weight?  Well, it seems that neither the star nor others are worried.  It's been said that she's living a healthier lifestyle, consuming fresh fruit, relaxation, and laughter while on the set in Miami.  Jen admits she's happier with this new look, but is she?  Such a sudden decrease in weight is the response to something.  With tons of media coverage, it's no wonder she loses weight.  It's probably due to the constant stress she has to endure as she sees cameras flicking pictures of her on a daily basis. That could make anyone crazy.

Source:  http://jennifer-aniston-news.newslib.com/story/2854-3237294/

Aniston's...another new man?

Whoa!  Jennifer Aniston and Orlando Bloom, a couple??  In Hollywood, Bloom and Aniston were seen sitting together at Eva Longoria's new restaurant, Beso.  Hollyscoop.com reported that the two were seen sitting very close and Jennifer was "looking at him like he was her favorite guy in the world".  Every time Jennifer Aniston steps out into public with any single man, reports fly in about a possible new man.  She appears to be romantically linked to every man she's seen with yet, there's no development after the initial report.  We'll see how this new "romance" turns out...

Source: http://www.hollyscoop.com/jennifer-aniston/14.aspx

Aniston on Oprah

The latest buzz about Jennifer Aniston reveals her making a special appearance on the season finale of Oprah's reality hit, "Big Give".  She will apparently be announcing "big news" on the show, but what it is, remains to be a secret.  One can only speculate.  As for me, I have no idea what this "big news" is.  Any thoughts?

Source: http://www.dailyindia.com/show/227236.php/Aniston-to-make-special-appearance-on-Oprahs-Big-Give-finale

Kids Cause

The latest news about J. Aniston shows her teaming up with good friend, Courteney Cox and fellow stars to raise awareness and money for the rare and debilitating genetic skin condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa.  This rare skin condition affects children primarily.  The goal is to raise $1 million in two weeks.  

Behaviors such as these demonstrate a celebrity's ability to exert his or her own power accumulated throughout the years.   When they get involved with local community efforts or causes, they do more than just role play in films and television.  They show sensitive side, a humanitarian, working hard to help bring about change.  Their power comes in the form of generating public awareness through their celebrity status.  This exertion of power can be beneficial, especially  for rare diseases or conditions like Epidermolysis Bullosa.  Not many people are aware that this condition exists and when celebrities like Aniston and Cox make it public, it draws attention.  It helps to create awareness and hopefully more monetary donations to help fight the cause.

Source:http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20185708,00.html

Jen's Caught in a Love Triangle

It seems some drama has surfaced during the production of Marley and Me.  According to transworldnews.com, Jennifer Aniston may be the "other woman" in the relationship between co-star Owen Wilson and Kate Hudson.  The two have reportedly become "close" on the set and Owen has been telling Kate all about Jen and how great she is.  As an A-list celebrity, the spotlight is constantly shining on Aniston.  She cannot escape the attention of the media.  In addition, rumors are surfacing that Aniston is writing a book about the breakdown of her marriage to Brad Pitt.  This will definately fuel the media and give many people what they want.  There are constant speculations about the Pitt-Aniston relationship and a tell-all book would ease the uncertainty of so many fans.  This example feeds into Gamson's comment about how celebrities use the public's desire for information for their own benefits.  If she publishes a book, the sales would skyrocket and she'd be making a ton more money.  It will be interesting to find out the reasoning behind her choice to write this book, if it's at all true. 

Making Time for Fun

Reporters for People.com are keeping busy, updating us daily on how Jennifer is balancing her busy work schedule with daily life.  It appears that she's making room for fun and relaxation.  Last Monday they wrote about what Jen did on the weekend with her costars in her upcoming movie.  She hit up some shopping, coffee trips, spa trips, and indulged in some gourmet cuisine.  Following up those activities was a night out with the "girls", whom I can assume are her friends and co-workers.

We read about countless stars who are suffering from the demands of living a Hollywood life.  To balance the negative with some positive, shedding light on how well Jennifer is handling her stressful life as an actor helps.  

Source:  http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20183079,00.html

Off the set of "Marley and Me"

Marly and Me is Jennifer Aniston's latest flick.  She's co-starring with Eric Dane (Grey's Anatomy) and Owen Wilson.  The article is brief but makes note that while Aniston is staying in Miami, where the set is located, she appears comfortable and happy, in her spare time "working out with regular guests, constantly smiling and being very friendly to all".   She's been spending her time away from the set relaxing and sipping martinis with friends.  It's always fascinating to me to read through celebrity news, catching an update on the lives of stars and making sure they are okay.  To me, it's amazing that we find it that enthralling.  But, I like everyone else, still read the articles and am curious to know.  

Source: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20182785,00.html

Oops

I forgot to put a link with the blog.  Here  it is :

http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en-us&q=jennifer+aniston&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=news_result&resnum=1&ct=title

Jen's Romance

It seems like all we ever hear about Jennifer Aniston nowadays is her love life or lackthereof.  Heading after heading on celebrity websites indicate that "Aniston dumps lover..." or "Jennifer Aniston breaks up with..."  Just type in "Jennifer Aniston" at Google Mail and you will see.  Even when she's been out of the limelight since her painful divorce from Brad Pitt, it appears that Jennifer is still capturing attention.  Having no personal relation to her, only absorbing what I read in magazines and websites, it seems like Jennifer Aniston tries to keep her relationships quiet but somehow the secret always seems to slip.  Celebrity news follows her love life fervently, relentless to just let her be.  Maybe that's the reason she's having these supposed issues with romance?  She can't find happiness and solitude when she's in the company of any man when people are constantly snapping photos in her face.