Why We Grieve Celebrities: The Psychology of Loss & Liam Payne

In this solo episode, Dr. Marianne Trent explores why the loss of a celebrity like Liam Payne or Matthew Perry can feel so personal — even if we’ve never met them. We unpack the psychology of parasocial relationships, disenfranchised grief, and how mental health professionals may feel these losses even more acutely. Whether you're grieving a public figure or supporting others who are, this episode offers insight, compassion, and helpful tips.

Timestamps

• 00:00 – Why Do We Grieve Celebrities?
• 01:17 – Meet Dr. Marianne Trent
• 02:11 – Parasocial Relationships Explained
• 03:19 – Why Celebrity Deaths Feel Personal
• 04:11 – When a Reunion Is No Longer Possible
• 05:06 – What Is Disenfranchised Grief?
• 06:04 – Valid Grief Without Personal Connection
• 06:59 – Why Mental Health Professionals Feel It Deeply
• 07:44 – 4 Tips for Coping with Celebrity Grief
• 08:38 – Support and Resources
• 09:59 – Closing Remarks

Links:

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