Ashton Kutcher stated that Hollywood is not responsible for pushing unreasonably high beauty standards. He attributed the increasing desire for aesthetic perfection to wider society.
Kutcher, 47, stars in the science fiction series "The Beauty," which features a drug that transforms individuals into their most attractive versions. He informed BBC News that he believes the film and TV industry does not impose "aesthetic homogeny," suggesting that entertainment mirrors societal trends. He noted that shows include a range of actors, some traditionally handsome and others considered "really interesting."
Kutcher identified the constant presence of cameras and public visibility as the main contributor to perfectionism. In "The Beauty," he plays a tech billionaire who creates a beautifying injection, later encountering its side effects, such as sexual transmission and internal burning.
Kutcher acknowledged parallels between "The Beauty" and the 2024 film "The Substance," starring his ex-wife Demi Moore, expressing commendation for her performance. "The Beauty," adapted from a comic book by Ryan Murphy, explores contemporary societal discussions and includes a cameo from Meghan Trainor, who has publicly discussed her weight loss from using weight-loss drugs.
Kutcher recounted that discussions with Murphy during filming often revolved around weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Ozempic, focusing on public demand for these drugs for non-medical reasons and their potential societal impacts.
Kutcher also observed the growing social acceptance of cosmetic enhancements. Data for the UK in 2024 indicated 27,462 cosmetic procedures were performed, a 5% increase from 2023, alongside over 10,000 non-surgical procedures. He noted a cultural shift where cosmetic procedures are openly discussed.
Kutcher linked beauty to security, success, and power, citing the phenomenon of millionaire influencers who achieve influence through digital platforms. Co-star Jeremy Pope suggested the show prompts viewers to consider the extent of sacrifice for ultimate beauty or success, reflecting a contemporary cultural commentary.