10 Celebrities Whose Reputations Took A Hit

Jessica Wilson
Dec 26, 2023
Dec 27, 2023

Celebs often rise to prominence for their talent, charm, or significant contributions to their respective fields. However, the world of fame has sometimes twists. Certain famous people find themselves entangled in scandals that cast a shadow over their once-shining careers. These scandals can range from personal controversies to professional missteps, leading to a shift in public perception.

In this article, we’ve delved into 10 instances where celebrities faced unexpected challenges , exploring the unfolding of scandals and their lasting impact on both the individuals and their public image.

#1. Lance Armstrong

Source: Wikipedia

Lance Armstrong, once a revered cyclist with seven consecutive Tour de France wins, faced a downfall when the United States Anti-Doping Agency revealed his involvement in a widespread doping program. He not only used performance-enhancing drugs but also orchestrated what the agency called “the most sophisticated doping program that sport has ever seen.” Armstrong said goodbye to several of his titles and faded into sports infamy.

#2. Amber Heard

Source: East News

The Depp v. Heard saga took unexpected turns. Initially, Johnny Depp faced public backlash, losing his role in the “Fantastic Beasts” series. However, perceptions shifted, and Amber Heard became a target. The ex-couple sued each other, leading to the infamous 2022 trial. Social media turned against Heard, worsened by the verdict finding her liable for defamation and awarding Depp $15 million. Depp was also liable for defamation, with Heard winning $2 million. Both appealed but eventually settled.

#3. Matt Lauer

Source: Michael Ostuni/Patrick McMullan / Getty Images

Matt Lauer, a longtime news anchor, faced a downfall with sexual harassment allegations leading to his firing in 2017 amid the #MeToo movement. Hosting "Today" for two decades, Lauer's disturbing actions came to light, and more victims shared similar stories. Journalist Ronan Farrow, in "Catch and Kill," suggests NBC knew about Lauer's behavior before his termination, marking a significant moment amid changing news consumption habits.

#4. J. K. Rowling

Source: East News

Even with the controversy, “Harry Potter” remains a big deal. HBO is turning the books into a TV series. But there's a problem. The author, J.K. Rowling has gotten backlash for her views on gender, especially about transgender people. Many in the Wizarding World, including past actors and fansites, disagree with her. Some even call her transphobic. Despite this, some still love the Harry Potter series while disapproving of the author's opinions.

#5. Paula Deen

Source: East News

Paula Deen, a prominent Southern chef, faced a significant setback in 2013. Accused of racial and sexual discrimination, it was her admission of using a racist slur in a deposition that caused her downfall. Almost all of her business partners severed ties, leading to a swift decline in her public presence.

#6. Kevin Spacey

Source: East News

Kevin Spacey's fall from grace was swift. On October 28, 2017, he was a beloved Oscar-winning actor, but the next day, he became widely hated. Actor Anthony Rapp accused Spacey of assaulting him in 1986, leading to over a dozen more victims sharing their stories. Spacey was dropped from many projects, including 'House of Cards.' Charges were filed, but he was acquitted. Despite that, there's a dark cloud over his name now.

#7. Ellen DeGeneres

Source: Michael Rozman / Warner Bros.

Ellen DeGeneres made history with her iconic TV moments, like the groundbreaking 'The Puppy Episode.' However, her successful talk show career took a hit in 2020 when former employees accused her of creating a hostile work environment, including instances of racism. Despite an attempt to apologize, her reputation suffered, leading to the decision to end 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' a few years later.

#8. Michael Richards

Source: East News

In the '90s, 'Seinfeld' was a massive hit, and Michael Richards, known for his role as Kramer, often stole the show with his comedic antics. Winning three Emmy Awards, his legacy seemed untarnished until November 17, 2006, when he was caught on video making a racist tirade at the Hollywood Laugh Factory. This incident shattered his reputation and effectively ended his

comedy career.

#9. Roseanne Barr

Source: East News

Even with its cultural success, 'Seinfeld' faced competition, and 'Roseanne' was a part of it. The show, celebrated for its working-class themes, earned Barr an Emmy in 1993. After ending in 1997, it returned 21 years later but was canceled after just nine episodes due to a racist remark by Barr on Twitter. The president of ABC called it 'abhorrent [and] repugnant,' leading to widespread agreement. Consequently, Barr wasn't part of the reworked version, 'The Conners.

#10. Bill Cosby

Source: East News

A beloved figure in the '60s and '70s, Bill Cosby gained national fame as Cliff Huxtable on 'The Cosby Show,' earning the title 'America's Dad.' However, in 2014, his history of sexual assault became widely known as numerous women came forward. One accuser, Jewell Allison, noted, 'He got away with it because he was hiding behind the image of Cliff Huxtable.' Despite a 2018 conviction, it was overturned about three years later, not because the court claimed Cosby was innocent, but due to a violation of due process.

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10 Celebrities Whose Reputations Took A Hit

#1. Lance Armstrong

#2. Amber Heard

#3. Matt Lauer

#4. J. K. Rowling

#5. Paula Deen

#6. Kevin Spacey

#7. Ellen DeGeneres

#8. Michael Richards

#9. Roseanne Barr

#10. Bill Cosby

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