lookalike

Lookalike refers to a person who bears a strong resemblance to another person, often a famous figure. The term is used as a noun (a lookalike) and as an adjective (lookalike features or appearance). The idea relies on visible traits such as facial structure, voice, and mannerisms being similar enough to be recognizable, though no two people are identical.

In entertainment and media, lookalikes perform as impersonators at events, fan conventions, or television appearances, and may be hired to evoke a celebrity without using the original person. In film and television production, lookalikes may serve as stand-ins or doubles when the primary actor is not available for a shot requiring appearance but not identity, though this is more commonly handled by professional doubles or body doubles.

In marketing and digital advertising, the term lookalike is used to describe audiences generated by algorithms to resemble an existing group of customers. Lookalike audiences enable targeting based on shared attributes, expanding reach while preserving relevance. The technique relies on data analysis and privacy considerations.

Social and ethical aspects include consent, rights to likeness, and the potential for misrepresentation or fraud when lookalikes are mistaken for the person they resemble. Cultural fascination with doppelgängers persists in literature and media, reflecting themes of identity and coincidence. Laws governing likeness rights vary by jurisdiction. See also doppelgänger, impersonation, likeness rights.