As the World Churns

Sorry to do this but I have to speak on fragile Paris Hilton and her jail stint. It was a shock felt around the world when the party girl was sentenced to jail time. Whether we see her relevance or not, Paris is a pop culture icon thus making this a big story. There’s no doubt that the legal system is sending a clear message to Hollywood celebrities and using Paris as a textbook example. And I don’t have a problem with it. I’m sure Nicole Richie and other legally challenged starlets and himbos are shaking in their designer shoes.

The legion of young clueless women who worship at the Paris alter are probably stunned. The hope would be an “a ha” moment will wakes them up and realize that there is more to life than trendy nightclubs, hot guys and Marchesa dresses. Marginal talent and youth can only take you so far. An education and common sense will never leave you.

This will definitely be a turning point for Ms. Hilton. It’s obvious that her health, most likely her mental health, has been effected by her incarceration. She’s obviously getting special treatment with her family allowed to cut the long lines and visit longer that usual. Will public resentment rupture her image? She told Barbra Walters that she won’t be playing dumb anymore but isn’t that part of her act. Will she be able to step aside from her vapid persona and present a mature woman who has done time in the pen? We’ll see.

In the wake of the Paris jail watch, there are some young Hollywood types that are great role models. They are proving that it’s hot to be talented, hard working and smart.

Mandy Moore

She was part of the blond teen queen invasion with fellow classmates Britney, Christina and Jessica. Her singing career may be on the back burner but she’s shown a sparkle on the big screen. She’s not afraid to have a little meat on her bones or play the girl next door. Her romances have been well documented but haven’t become her claim to fame. Young girls could learn a lot from her.

Natalie Portman

She’s as cute as a button, Ivy League educated and a budding style icon. Even when she’s playing a saucy stripper, she brings intelligence to the role. It takes guts to shave your head for a role.

Julia Stiles

Here’s another girl that has matured in front of our eyes. Her Kewpie doll good looks brought life to the off beat 10 Things I Hate About You. She’s grown as an actress but I’m still waiting for her big break through role. Meanwhile, she’s college educated and starting to direct.

Who else is should replace Paris Hilton as a role model?