Ashton Kutcher recently shared his view on beauty standards in Hollywood, arguing that the real issue isn’t the film industry itself, but society’s obsession with perfection. Kutcher, now 47, stars in the new sci-fi series The Beauty. The show explores a world where a drug promises to make people their most attractive selves, but it raises important questions about the lengths individuals will go to achieve this ideal.
Kutcher points out that entertainment mirrors society. He believes that while some characters in shows are conventionally attractive, others are interesting and unique. He emphasizes that beauty isn’t just about fitting into a mold but embracing diversity. With cameras everywhere, our constant exposure to curated images has fueled a culture of perfectionism. This aligns with opinions from experts in psychology, who note that social media can negatively impact body image.
The topic of beauty is more relevant now than ever. According to recent statistics, cosmetic procedures are on the rise. In the UK, over 27,000 cosmetic surgeries were performed in 2024, a 5% increase from the previous year. Non-surgical treatments like Botox also saw significant growth. Kutcher noted this shift towards cosmetic enhancements becoming socially acceptable. Where once people kept procedures secret, they now openly discuss their choices over coffee.
In The Beauty, Kutcher plays a billionaire who creates a beauty-enhancing injection, leading to serious and unexpected side effects. This fictional plot resonates with modern trends, including discussions about weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. Many celebrities have started to share their experiences with these treatments, sparking conversations about health and body image on platforms like TikTok.
Critics of the show suggest that it satirizes the quest for Instagram-perfect beauty. Rebecca Hall, another star of the series, draws comparisons to Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, emphasizing the dangers of chasing external validation. Her role highlights how societal pressures about beauty can lead to deeper personal struggles.
In a world where beauty can be bought, Hall raises concerns that we are losing our individuality. She warns that if everyone looks the same, the definition of beauty will constantly shift. This reflects a growing unease with the pressure to conform to beauty standards fueled by social media and celebrity culture.
Ultimately, Kutcher and his co-stars aim to provoke thought about our society’s obsession with beauty and success. The show encourages viewers to reflect on the true costs of striving for unattainable ideals. In Kutcher’s words, beauty is often linked to power and success, but at what price?
For more on the impact of cosmetic surgery, visit the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
