4 Pop Culture Icons Worth Admiring
Pop culture is a powerful force that shapes our lives and inspires millions. In this article, we asked a Founder & Creative Director and a Composer, Producer & Influencer to share their thoughts on which pop culture icons they admire and why. You'll first discover why Keanu Reeves' respect for crew members garners admiration and conclude with how Julia Roberts' talent continues to mesmerize. With four unique insights, this article provides a fascinating look into the qualities that resonate most with industry experts.
- Keanu Reeves Values Crew Members
- Phil Lynott Transformed Rock Music
- Tom Silver Elevates Hypnosis Field
- Julia Roberts Mesmerizes with Talent
Keanu Reeves Values Crew Members
I work in the production industry, producing film and commercial content. To outsiders, this job is glamorous and exciting, but the reality can be very different. The industry often suffers from systemic mistreatment of crew members, who are expected to work long hours with little recognition, sometimes to the detriment of their own health and well-being.
Keanu Reeves is an actor who stands out not just for his talent but for his humanity. He consistently acknowledges the importance of the crew, and stories of his kindness on set are numerous—whether it's buying them meals, giving them bonuses, or taking time to listen and connect with them on a personal level. His humility and generosity remind me that true leadership in any creative project comes from valuing every individual involved. In an industry where people often go unappreciated, his efforts to ensure crew members receive fair treatment and recognition really resonate with me. His actions show that success doesn't have to come at the expense of others—a philosophy I try to bring into my own work.
Phil Lynott Transformed Rock Music
Phil Lynott was a tremendous talent and personality. His years in the band Thin Lizzy transformed rock with his distinctive voice, bass playing, and songwriting. Considering he was a Black man growing up in Ireland and yet garnered international acclaim was quite a feat. During the 1970s and early '80s, his music was sorely needed with its hard-rock edge, driving rhythms, and melodic/harmonized guitars. He always had a nod to his roots in Ireland, reflected in the music and lyrics. Generally, his lyrics were thoughtful and insightful, from Irish mythology, heartbreak, gambling, addiction, war, and much more. Truly a transcendental figure in rock that died too young.
Tom Silver Elevates Hypnosis Field
A pop-culture icon I deeply admire, though he may not be well-known to the general public, is the legendary hypnotist Tom Silver. In the world of hypnosis, he's a giant, known for dedicating decades to perfecting his scientific approach to hypnotherapy. He's also made waves on TV and stages across the globe, including performing at NBA halftime shows.
What stands out about Tom, beyond his incredible expertise, is his humility. Despite being a legend in the field, he's always approachable and willing to offer his insights. I didn't even know Tom back in 2018 when I was preparing for my TEDx Talk, "If You Can't Be Hypnotized, You Lose," but when I reached out, he graciously jumped on a video call to help me craft a powerful hypnosis demonstration.
Now, I'm thrilled that Tom has agreed to speak in-person at the 2025 Performing Hypnosis Summit in Las Vegas, where he'll be teaching his techniques to the next generation of stage hypnotists. His willingness to share his knowledge and elevate others in the profession speaks volumes about who he is.
Julia Roberts Mesmerizes with Talent
I have long admired and looked up to Julia Roberts, both as a woman and, most certainly, as an actor. Her elegance, poised demeanor, nuanced expressions, and infectious laugh have always mesmerized me. I've always been fascinated by her early work in such classics as Mystic Pizza, Steel Magnolias, and, of course, Pretty Woman, not only for putting her on the map but for the incredible imprint she has left in our hearts. Her dramatic roles captivate in Sleeping with the Enemy and Erin Brockovich, all while lending joy and lightheartedness in numerous rom-coms throughout. I continue to look forward to anything this original and breathtaking beauty serves up. For these reasons and more, I am forever grateful to the icon that is Julia Roberts, in her films and on the red carpet!