Throughout my 20-year career covering the entertainment industry for the Mirror, I’ve noticed a common trend: the bigger the celebrity, the kinder they tend to be. While reality TV personalities have often proven challenging to work with, there have been some notable exceptions among the A-listers. Here are my top five encounters with down-to-earth stars, presented in no particular order.
Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country, stands out for her exceptional memory and personal touch. In my two interviews with her in Nashville and London, she always recalls details from our previous conversations, making each encounter special. Despite early morning interviews, Dolly’s warm hospitality shines through, even extending to tours of her merchandise warehouse where we could freely browse and select items.
Meeting Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, initially made me apprehensive due to his elusive reputation. However, I was pleasantly surprised by his self-deprecating humor and genuine warmth during our interview in Mexico City. Mick’s VIP treatment extended beyond the interview, ensuring I joined his inner circle for a memorable concert experience.
Olivia Newton-John, known for her hospitality and kindness, graciously welcomed me to her Californian ranch in 2019. Despite personal challenges, including her recovery from cancer, Olivia shared her passion for environmental causes and offered a personal tour of her garden. Our interview turned into a relaxed evening of wine and conversation, highlighting her genuine and caring nature.
Rihanna’s humor and intelligence shone through in our encounters in Glasgow and Los Angeles. Despite challenging circumstances, such as our initial interview following a late-night show in Scotland, Rihanna’s down-to-earth demeanor and humor made the experience enjoyable. Even during tougher discussions, she handled them professionally and gracefully shifted the focus to positive topics.
Jon Bon Jovi, a seasoned musician, impressed me with his enthusiasm and storytelling during our meetings in New York and London. Despite his long career, Jon remains humble and engaging, sharing humorous anecdotes and showing genuine appreciation for his experiences in the industry. His willingness to connect on a personal level reflects his down-to-earth nature and enduring passion for music.
In conclusion, these encounters with top celebrities have showcased their genuine personalities, kindness, and ability to make lasting impressions beyond their fame. Each interaction revealed a different facet of their characters, emphasizing their humility, warmth, and professionalism in the entertainment world.