Celebrities typically become well-known for their skills. For instance, many actors such as Julia Roberts, Al Pacino, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Meryl Streep are famous for their abilities to play diversified roles. Singers such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Justin Timberlake sell out concerts because they give great performances and many people like their songs. Tom Brady, LeBron James, Serena Williams, and Tiger Woods garner attention because they are among the best in their sports. As long as their skills remain strong and in demand, they continue to capitalize on their brands.
While honing a skill and performing at high levels protects celebrities and their brands, making them more valuable, publicity helps to maintain that value and keep celebrities in demand. The more celebrities are exposed, the more they are remembered and the more the public associates with them. While newer talent and age may play a factor in how long or how well celebrities can maintain their brand value, celebrities often use other methods than the skills that made them famous in the first place to keep their brand valuable.
For instance, many celebrities launch clothing lines that help to keep their brand thriving. Such lines include Fabletics by Kate Hudson, Ivy Park by Beyonce, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, Goop Label by Gwyneth Paltrow, Paper Crown by Lauren Conrad, and many others. Some celebrities launch their own perfumes. Justin Bieber, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Jennifer Aniston, Sean Combs, Derek Jeter, and David Beckham are just a few who market their own scents. The number of type of products celebrities launch is large. Other items may include purses, handbags, makeup lines, and so much more. In addition to their own lines, celebrities endorse a plethora of products including athletic gear, credit cards, medication, technology, and endless other products.
Although endorsing and launching products is another big avenue that can keep a brand alive, some celebrities also tap into new territory to keep their image public. For instance, many famous singers and athletes have dabbled with acting. They include Lady Gaga, Tim McGraw, Brett Favre, Christina Aguilera, Shaun White, and numerous others. Partnering with charities is also another way celebrities can benefit.
As you can see, developing, maintaining, and enhancing a celebrity brand can take a tremendous amount of time, work, experience, practice, and even stepping out of a comfort zone. However, the more a celebrity remains in the spotlight, the more important that brand becomes.