In a world overwhelmed by chaos and uncertainty, it seems that some individuals are turning to smoking as a form of solace. Often reminiscent of the dark undertones in a horror film, many feel that, like in *The Cabin in the Woods*, the system has failed us. This sentiment resonates deeply with Jared Oviatt, the brain behind the now-famous Instagram account @cigfluencers, which showcases glamorous pictures of celebrities indulging in smoking.

Oviatt views the act of taking a smoke break as a powerful equalizer. "I’m sure there will be some good, very depressing conversations going on over a cigarette over the next couple of weeks," he shares, reflecting on the collective experiences of frustration and disillusionment many are currently facing.

The Celebrity Smoking Surge

Once again, smoking has entered pop culture in a big way. Recognizable figures such as Ben Affleck have been spotted taking smoke breaks, prompting fans to document and share these moments online. Oviatt notes a noticeable uptick in celebrity smoking since June, particularly due to icons like Charli XCX and Jeremy Allen White, whose carefree attitudes are giving fans a glimpse of rebellion against the norms of present-day beauty trends.

"These celebrities are rejecting the narrative of always looking perfect," he explains. “They don’t care about the repercussions of smoking, and young audiences are noticing this.”

One striking example he mentions is Addison Rae, a social media sensation who unabashedly embraces smoking. "She represents a carefree spirit at a time when so many are obsessed with their public image," Oviatt says, highlighting the troubling influence this may have on impressionable youth.

A Connoisseur’s Choice

When asked about his go-to cigarette brand, Oviatt shares that it’s Camel Blues. In Canada, where smoking is significantly more expensive, it becomes a rare indulgence rather than a daily habit. He also points out that while celebrities like Rosalía and Dua Lipa are widely recognized for their smoking personas, there are lesser-known ones deserving of more attention, such as Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons.

The Nostalgia of Smoke

Interestingly, while many think of smoking celebrities from the 1990s, it seems that today’s stars are bringing it back in a new light. Oviatt reminisces about the days he would sift through archival photos, and now he's flooded with fresh images from today’s prominent figures. He delightfully mentions how surprising it is to see the likes of Kaia Gerber, the ultimate ‘nepo baby,’ adding to this youthful yet retro aesthetic by smoking on the set of her latest film, *Bottoms*.

Starting the Conversation

What inspired Oviatt to start @cigfluencers? It began with a simple blog post questioning whether smoking was only perceived as cool if performed by attractive people. When Rachel Sennott and Jeremy O'Harris shared his content, it sparked a growth in followers and interest — establishing a mini-phenomenon around the aesthetic of smoking.

When asked if he found clarity in his initial question, Oviatt stats, “It seems that smoking can elevate one’s image depending on who is doing it, even if they don’t fit the classic standards of beauty.”

The Social Dynamics of Smoke Breaks

As America processes emotional and societal challenges, smoke breaks are emerging once again as a space for dialogue and connection. Oviatt suggests that such breaks foster discussions among individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s at a workplace or a party, the moments shared over cigarettes may offer a form of collective catharsis in these divided times.

In conclusion, while the current revival of smoking among celebrities raises eyebrows, it also ignites conversations about societal norms, self-image, and everything in between. So, light one up and join in; after all, what better way to bond over life’s challenges than through the shared experience of a smoke?