As Beyoncé once said, “[A] Diva is a female version of a hustler.” What ever happened to the OG diva? Divas and Y2K core were once synonymous with the roars of the early 200s in pop culture and media.
The Icons
When most people think of divas, names like Paris Hilton, Naomi Campbell and Mariah Carey tend to pop up most. This is partly due to their personalities and media presence. However, divas don’t always have to be females. Queen frontman, the late Freddie Mercury, has also been called a diva.
In media, films and television shows have also been known to have their own divas, including Cher Horowitz from “Clueless” and Regina George from “Mean Girls.” With their sass and utmost goals to be fashion icons, it doesn’t appear that Cher or Regina would necessarily be ashamed to be called ‘divas.’
Some people own the title and are proud of being called divas, like Mariah Carey. While others don’t feel so proud, like Naomi Campbell. Carey also understands that it is part of her brand.
There are things people are not aware of, because this whole quote unquote ‘diva’ thing is always what people see first… Yes, I play into it. “And yes, part of that is real. I can’t help it.
Mariah Carey
Who is Today’s Diva?
More recently, Chappell Roan has been labeled a ‘diva’ for having an outburst at a photographer on the red carpet for the 2024 MTV VMA Awards after being yelled at. While she was praised by some for her handling of the manner, she was also criticized for her behavior.
Having an outburst doesn’t make you a diva. Part of the charm of a classic Y2K diva is that you have to embrace the title and be proud of it. In this day and age, with our overconsumption of media and exposure to influencers and celebrities? Who shall be crowned the title of ‘diva’?
Perhaps it could indeed be Chappell Roan or maybe, Nikki Minaj. One of the shticks of a diva is their constant sense of feeling self-righteous yet proud to think of themselves as the best there is, which could be viewed as being rather narcissistic.
Divas come in all shapes and sizes, they don’t just have to be blonde and wear pink and be disrespectful at all times, much like Sharpay Evans. Divas are fun and iconic, as they are synonymous with pop culture. Let’s aim to bring back friendly divas to our screens and media!
Who do you think is our generation’s diva? Let VALLEY know on Instagram or X @VALLEYmag!
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