Actors are role models whether they like it or not. Studies have shown that young people are influenced by their favourite stars, both on and off the big screen. Much of the glamour smoking exudes is related to who is smoking.    Actors rarely discuss the industry pressures to start smoking, for a role or otherwise. Many actors start smoking under the age of 20 and the younger a person begins smoking the more highly addicted they become.    Actors who smoke are in the position to evoke changes and influence their fans. Actors are real people who are just as affected by the cycle of smoking. The reality of smoking is rarely shown coughing, wrinkles, number of attempts to quit, disease.

Britney Spears , singer/actor smoking off duty, yet still seen as a role model announced recently she is expecting a baby, - time to quit Brit, ooohh baby one more time...

 

Print ad of actress Drew Barrymore smoking. Her shirt clearly portraying the rebel attitude.. Photo Source: http://www.samh.net/drew/smoke/smoke001.html

Drew Barrymore: "'I get through anywhere from two to three packs a day', she declares, with undeniable relish. 'It's disgusting. It's awful. But I love it! Ooh I love it. If there could be an alcoholic word for smoking then that would be me. I'm a smoke-aholic. Definitely. Marlboros. That's my brand. It's such a great consistent taste. I love everything about smoking. I love the it cures my oral fixations. I love that it's something to do, it's something in my hand. I like the smell of it, the taste of it, I love smoking! I love the first one in the morning, I love the last one before I go to bed and every one in between. If I could I would smoke and eat at the same time. Whether it's obsessions or fixations, this is definitely one of mine. But if it's a fault, then it's one I take pride in." GQ Magazine, Apr. '95