The emergence of the 'Super-Celebrity Activist': George Clooney and Angelina Jolie

Given the number of social and political issues prevalent in the world it is surprising how few A-list I lollywood actors involve themselves with these issues. Two celebrities stand out from the crowd in this arena: George Clooney and Angelina Jolie. As members of the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), which is the most influential foreign policy think tank in the United States (Lobe, 2005), Clooney and Jolie have used their celebrity status to highlight issues in the Sudan, and refugees, respectively. This paper explores the history and activism of these two celebrities and how through utilizing their celebrity, political connections, and even business partnerships, these celebrities have effected real change for thousands of people and in the process have themselves transformed into 'super-celebrity activists'.