The Indicator from Planet Money Why every A-lister also has a side hustle
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Aug 14, 2025 Celebrities are launching personal brands in every imaginable sector, from beverages to beauty. Lisa Loeb shares her journey into eyewear, while John Legend discusses the blend of entertainment and entrepreneurship. The podcast explores how A-listers evolved from rejecting endorsements to embracing them, reshaping marketing dynamics. It also highlights the significant influence of these branding efforts on consumer culture, revealing personal stories of how celebrity products impact shopping experiences. This trend opens new income streams but also entails risks.
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Artist Turns Signature Look Into Product
- Lisa Loeb started a collection of eyewear after fans suggested she should have a line.
- She launched her first frames in 2010 as music industry changes made it more acceptable.
Cultural Shift Normalized Celebrity Brands
- Celebrity endorsements existed for decades but high-prestige actors often avoided ads historically.
- Cultural shifts and influencer norms have normalized celebrities launching and selling brands.
Franchise Power Shrinks Star Pay
- Movie-going now prioritizes franchises and IP over individual stars.
- That reduces actors' bargaining power and pushes them to seek income outside acting.