Review Fix chats with author Eric North, who discusses his recently published list of the five happiest celebs and more.
Follow him on Instagram.
Head to his official site, here.
Review Fix: What went into this list of happiest celebrities? How did you make your picks?
Eric North: I’ve always gravitated towards people who are real, find it easy to smile, and are a little (or a lot!) eccentric. The same thing goes for celebrities and anyone in the public sphere.
From my earliest memories, I’ve always found hope and inspiration when someone I look up to is using their voice and platform for social change and the greater good. Whether it’s helping to increase equity, equality, or clean water initiatives I’m grateful for their ability to think about where they came from and how important it is to give back. It’s a scientific fact that we are happier when our actions are aligned with our capacity to do good.
Review Fix: Who are a few honorable mentions that didn’t make the list?
North: Sean Penn, I have a “non-creepy” crush on this man. We’re about the same age and I’ve always admired his courage and real-life actions to draw attention to the world’s atrocities. Whether it’s Venezuela, Ukraine, or Haiti, he’s on the frontlines in the most dangerous places fighting for the people without a voice. In a world of misinformation, churlishness, and gaslighting we need more Sean Penn’s and less Josh Hawley’s.
I’ve always been charmed by the generosity and spirit of Dolly Parton. She’s an amazingly gifted artist but has always found time for passionate causes. There are so many other causes that she’s supported, but illiteracy is a real problem in this country personalized by her father. The Imagination Library is one of her greatest acts dedicated to expanding access to books and increasing childhood literacy. Free books to anyone under the age of five that registers for the program. Over 205,000,000 books have been shipped and donated to date. I’ve always been a prolific reader and firmly believe in the life-changing benefits of reading.
A couple of others of note:
Salma Hayek is a passionate voice for anti-domestic violence and female empowerment.
Beyonce with her BeyGOOD foundation for mental health. She and her husband Jay-Z have been huge supporters of BLM and other social causes including mental health initiatives.
Review Fix: What can a non-celeb do to be as happy as the people that made this list?
North: We can make a pact with ourselves to be more vocal and ready to step in when the world needs us. Every action we take can be something that provides value and makes us happier and feel more accountable for our lives. I always recommend identifying our core values and aligning our actions accordingly. No cheating!
Review Fix: Any non-happy celebs you’d like to give advice to? What would you say to them?
North: For most, I’d honor them with respect for their talent and accomplishments. I’d also remind them of how much more they are capable of achieving and giving. They’ve worked hard and know what it takes. Just one small action can make a difference and multiply.
Even a few words of encouragement to others can be life changing. Celebrity is both a privilege and responsibility to not take anything for granted.
Review Fix: What’s next for you?
North: I’ve been dreaming about getting into live television in the near future, more writing of course, and getting the word out that we all deserve to be happy. Always creating more happiness warriors who are believers and achievers. It’s a lot of fun and extremely gratifying but I always believe that I can be better.
Review Fix: Anything else you want to add?
North: I’m always so grateful for any chance to get my thoughts in front of others. I never intentionally point fingers or provoke, but I want more of us to open our eyes and hearts. To forgive and set the past grievances aside. We can all gain the happiness that we deserve when we ourselves permission to experience happiness.
Leave a Reply