As the popularity of lookalike competitions surges, young people in the UK and US are embracing this playful trend that offers a break from daily challenges and fosters community spirit.
Celeb Lookalike Competitions: A New Trend Fueled by Fun and Camaraderie

Celeb Lookalike Competitions: A New Trend Fueled by Fun and Camaraderie
The latest celebrity lookalike craze goes beyond mere resemblance, as participants seek connection and joyful experiences
In an age where social media reigns, a whimsical new trend has emerged: lookalike competitions featuring celebrities like Harry Styles and Timothée Chalamet. Celebrities have always captivated audiences, but the recent rise of such events reveals a deeper desire among participants for connection, laughter, and escapism in today’s fast-paced world.
The wave of lookalike contests began just weeks ago at a Timothée Chalamet competition in New York, which garnered considerable attention, including a surprise appearance from Chalamet himself. These contests are attracting throngs of young enthusiasts hoping to secure their own moment of fame alongside doppelganger-like competitors. The events often offer minimal prizes, yet the true reward seems to lie in the shared experience and joy of participating.
Participants like Miles Mitchell, a 20-year-old student, discovered a sense of community at the Chalamet competition. "Socialising can be really expensive, so my friends and I loved the fact this was a free and fun event," he remarked, highlighting how these contests provide a casual atmosphere in which to unwind and connect.
Oscar Journeaux, who recently won a Harry Styles lookalike contest in London, admitted he entered seeking publicity for his music career. "I thought I could get a bit of fame and promo for my music, and the industry is so hard to break into," he expressed. However, he also acknowledged the lighter motive behind these gatherings, as many participants seek simply to fill their time with something amusing.
Events organized by journalists and fans alike emphasize the community-building aspect of competitions. Katrina Mirpuri, who arranged one such contest, noted that it aimed to combat negativity prevalent in social media. "It wasn’t about who looked most like Harry," she explained. "It was a way for people to just be positive and celebratory about each other."
With inspiration from the competitions, participants continuously report a sense of camaraderie and joy. "It was nice to meet new people and it was cool that hundreds of young people decided to turn up and hang out," said participant Sudev Namboodiri. Such gatherings not only entertain but also promote connection, giving attendees a chance to relax and share pleasurable moments away from the anxiety of everyday life.
As the lookalike trend continues, events featuring different celebrity icons are sprouting up across cities, from Zayn Malik to others, fulfilling a desire for not only fun and laughter but also a sense of community in an increasingly disconnected world. Whether it’s for the love of a celebrity or the thrill of competition, these contests serve as a reminder of our shared human experience, highlighting joy amid escalating tensions in society.