.jpg)
Actor/musician, Robert Pattinson (AP Photo/Matt Sayles).
It's no mystery that, like many girls, smart girls love actor/musician, Robert Pattinson, but you may not know why.
You're seeing his photo splashed on the covers of magazines at the check-out counter. You may have even seen him get zapped by an evil wizard and die in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire or reluctantly fall in love after 100+ years of searching for the right one in Twilight.
You may get the general vibe that there's something about this guy that sets girls' hearts racing (and some of their embarrassed moms and other interested women, too; truth be told), but you may be dumbfounded why even the smartest girls you know--those who might rather die than be called a 'fangirl'--also seem to love this British actor so very, very much.
There are a few reasons why.
Well, maybe a baker's dozen or so.
We'll keep it to 13.
Before we begin, it is important to note one thing about smart girls and Robert Pattinson. They know the difference between Robert Pattinson, the actor, and Edward Cullen, his character in Twilight.
Ok, with that caveat out of the way, let's begin:
1.) The first reason why is obvious. Smart girls aren't dumb when it comes to embracing tall, good looks; they just want to be sure there is something more behind what they see. In Pattinson's case, there is.
2.) Smart girls love talent. If a man can make them forget their troubles for awhile, or even better, enlighten them or carry them to a new place through a story or a song (both of which Mr. Pattinson can do), then he has their attention, admiration, and in some cases, a growing devotion. More than one talent? Double points. Robert Pattinson has double points. He is an actor, but he is also a talented musician and singer/songwriter.
3.) Humility scores big. It doesn't take an above-average intelligence to feel all warm and fuzzy when someone who is clearly more talented or better looking than the average person does not seem to know it (or show it, if he does)--and above all, does not take it for granted that you think he is above average in anything. Bravado doesn't cut it with the typical smart girl. She gets bored with it quicker than it takes the guy who is full of it to even realize he needs to get over himself. Pattinson is also not particularly sporty and gets teased by his co-stars when he gets hurt easily doing stunts. Many smart girls (at least, those who are not also student athletes) can relate to that.
4.) Robert Pattinson reads. Newsflash! Well, it's true. Smart girls read, and smart guys do, too. Readers share a special bond that is stronger than a lot of other things guys could do to try to attract girls. If some guys only knew. A lot of guys--a lot--do not read much. (A lot of girls don't either, for that matter, but we're talking especially right now about those who do). In interviews, Pattinson has talked about books he's read and has observed that several of the films he's appeared in so far happen to come from books.
5.) He has a great sense of humor. Pattinson makes people laugh. Watch a YouTube interview of Robert Pattinson--almost any one of them. The guy has a sense of humor that just won't quit, and best of all, it's self-deprecating. He's the kind of guy smart girls want to take home to their parents because they have absolutely no doubt in their minds that they will like him. Charm and a sense of humor go hand-in-hand.
6.) He knows how to be a gentleman and when. Somehow, to Americans, it goes with the charming British accent thing, but, more importantly, it shows a good upbringing. Robert Pattinson appears to have good instincts for when to be silly and when to be respectful. The maturity to know the difference is unusual for someone his age, and smart girls, who also tend to be rather mature for their ages, appreciate that. The British accent thing? Well, let's just say that smart girls know that one British accent does not a gentleman make, but perhaps the nerdiest among them may also take a special pleasure in the fact that Robert speaks perfect Queen's English and not in a more folksy, Cockney dialect (Americans are not generally aware of the social class bias that can sometimes get tied up with this distinction in England).
7.) He listens, and he's articulate. Watch him in a YouTube interview again. Do you see him listening to the questions carefully? Do you see him thinking about an answer rather than always blurting out the first thing that comes to mind? Do you see him try to give a fresh answer to the same question he's been asked 1.2 million times already? Smart girls see these traits and appreciate the actor's efforts to communicate thoughtfully, sincerely, and well. In the listening department as well, it doesn't hurt that he knows music so well that he can recommend an eclectic list of good musicians and songwriters that smart girls might not have yet heard of and would like to know more about.
8.) He thinks. Wow--another newsflash (he walks; he talks--LOL!). This reason, though, is also evident in his interviews. Robert appears to want to give a thoughtful response to questions asked of him most of the time. His answers themselves sound like they are from a person who thinks about subjects beyond sports scores or fast food. It makes one want to read something that Robert may have written. It is said that he has kept journals and written screenplays. It shows. Catherine Hardwicke, Twilight director, says he has, or is, an "old soul." Smart girls get what that means.
9.) He's a kind and generous public person and friend. Anyone who allows fangirls to take pictures with him endlessly when he is out on his own time and not at a public function cannot be called anything but kind and generous. Pattinson's friendships--old and new--seem to indicate that he is a loyal and trusted friend. He is already using his newfound fame to help open up opportunities for his British friends' careers (musicians who co-wrote songs with him that ended up on the Twilight soundtrack, for example).
10.) He's not perfect. Pattinson's got a bit of an edge that keeps him from being totally perfect. He smokes (which might be one reason not to bring him home). He embraces what some say is a typical young Brit habit of going out to pubs almost nightly, and he doesn't seem to care who sees him there. He's himself, which smart girls love. He's not trying to be someone he's not to fit into someone else's image of who he should be. It's called being genuine, flaws and all. There's something a little dangerous, a little unpredictable about him, too. Catherine Hardwicke saw it and says it was another reason why she cast him as Edward Cullen.
11.) He's not afraid to show his vulnerability. Pattinson is said to be quite shy. Certainly, his soft spokenness and nervous ticks in interviews (combing his fingers through his hair, among them) seems to validate this. How 'manly' is it, then, when someone that shy is also that comfortable with himself that he can admit he has areas in his life that are in conflict with one another, like everyone else? Mr. Pattinson's sensitivity will serve him well as an artist. His good-natured goofiness will serve him well in making friends. The combination of the two will likely appeal to people in power in the entertainment industry.
12.) He's creative, has ideas and ambition. Pattinson will continue to surprise audiences for at least the next few years with the film roles he decides to take on outside of the Twilight saga. Right now, much of his career is dependent on those choices, and he seems like the kind of actor who will be thoughtful in making those choices, if he chooses to stay with acting at all. Those who have worked with him say he is a hard worker.
13.) The whole Hollywood thing does not overly impress him. You get the feeling Robert Pattinson could leave all of this newfound fame and glitz behind him tonight if he found a different means of expression or a line of work that interested him more. Not being tied to chasing fame and fortune is an admirable quality that smart girls--and people of all kinds--find unusual and admirable.
True or not to how he is in real life, this is Robert Pattinson's public persona as it stands right now. Of course, it could change in an instant, and in this Internet age, the change would ripple around the world in a matter of minutes, and the tide could turn against him. When people talk about the pressure of fame, it might have something to do with maintaining a likable persona, even when you're tired of it--unless the persona is not a persona at all--it's the way you really are.
Smart girls know that, too, which is why they temper their love for this actor/musician with a curiosity about their own worlds and a zest for their own lives. They know it's fun to get a little short of breath, or a little weak in the knees when a new picture of Robert Pattinson shows up in front of their eyes yet again, but their feet still remain firmly planted on the ground.
Smart girls (and some of their blushing moms, as well as interested women of all ages) are keeping their eyes on their favorite actor, Robert Pattinson these days--not only for the enjoyment from what they see, but also to watch with interest for what the talented actor/musician chooses to do next.
What's that? Not feeling particularly smart, but still love Robert Pattinson? Join the club! What's that? You're a smart girl, you say, and you don't love Robert Pattinson? Well, you're entitled to your educated opinion, of course, but I know a few other smart girls who might ask you for 13 reasons why.
[Bottom photo: Robert Pattinson accepting an award at the MTV Movie Awards. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)].
(c) Copyright by Connie Ann Kirk. All rights reserved.
Related Articles:
Smart girls don't grab Robert Pattinson
If you could cast Robert Pattinson, what movie role would you choose?
Robert Pattinson's vampire flick pics, both from 'books'
Robert Pattinson's 'Love Story'
Robert Pattinson, 'A Scoundrel' in Bel-Ami?
Pierce Brosnan (James Bond) believable as Robert Pattinson's (Edward Cullen) dad in 'Remember Me'?
Summer 2009, Books on Film preview
Comment Below:
Are you a fan of Robert Pattinson's? Why or why not? Do you think his public persona is the same as he is in real life?
Comments
Thank you Connie, for this article.
It's really refreshing to see an article that tells his good qualities and isn't trying to tear him down.
I agree with PJ, this is a great article with many valid points.
Everything you have said is perfect and I'm very happy that you did not once refer to his fans as *gasp* tweens or teens. Many of us smart women are in our 20s, 30s and even 40s!! Rob's appeal is ageless and you have wonderfully defined why we love him. So I thank you.
Amen to all of this! It's exactly why I think he's the total package! Good looks, smart, sincere, and very genuine. What an adorable, sexy sweetheart of a guy! Better try to snag him Kristen, if you're smart!
YES! Finally!! REAL reasons to love Robert Pattinson!
Absolutely perfect. I'm a teen and I hate being looked at like I'm two for liking Rob. I couldn't give a care if he played the hottest what-and-what on earth. I like him for his wonderful personality. This is going into my bookmarks.
You're amazing for writing this. Thank you. This is exactly why I love him. For all these reasons you listed above. The media always assumes it's because he's physically beautiful or because (and this one always bothers me) he plays "Edward Cullen." NO. It's because of everything you said: he's talented, he's humble, he's generous and sweet, he's smart, he's hilarious, and, yes, of course, he's absolutely gorgeous (and doesn't even realize it).
So thank you. <3
I Love your article.Yes I am a huge fan of Rob's.For many reasons,his acting,music personality,sense of humor,smile.he is adorable,and many more little quirks about him.I do believe he is the same way in real life as he is in public,but I am inclined to think he is a lot more relaxed and I'm sure absolutely hilarious when not in the public eye or being swarmed by fans.
that was really perfect, i was trying to find a way to explain the why? thing to my husband i'll just make him read this, it's too true, it's like reading my mind out, thank you
What an amazing article! These are the reasons I love Rob & think he's an amazing person I'd like to have tea with & talk books & music with. I'm glad you've written this article!
Wow, that was just so well written, and just so true, I love your other articles.
I just love this article very true, and very well said
These descriptions are spot on, which is why we LOVE him!
I think this list is why his appeal transcends the age groups of women - I hope these are peices of who he really is and he never falls into the Hollywood pit of the "Moviestar" mentality- this type of actor (and man) really is rare and a refreshing change - a pleasure to witness as well!
You nailed it! Thanks!
Thank you or validating that it is not merely twelve year old girls who appreciate Mr. Pattinson and that we apprecitate him for much more than playing a sexy 17/150 year old vampire. I would like to add that is not only girls and mom's of girls who are drawn to him. I am a thirty three year old woman who gravitates towards Mr. Pattinson for the exact reasons you spoke of above and I look forward to what the young artist brings forth next.
Thanks for taking the time to express these great points... and not writing up gossip and sensationalism! This was very thoughtful and respectful.
This was very well written. Thank you for writing that. It was PERFECT.
Truth be told I didn't care that much for Twilight but I was impressed by Mr. Pattinson's preformance in it because it was smart. He was able to create for all these girls something they could project their "love" on to. That, I think, exemplifies several of your reasons i.e. he's a smart man. Smart people like watching smart actors, it's refreshing if nothing else.
And being adorable definitely doesn't hurt.
You nailed it Connie! This is how I feel.
I loved this! THank you.
No one here knows Pattinson.
But, But every You Tube clip you see him in he's joyful, funny, goofy, smart and real.
Also, clips of him and the other guys of Twilight, they all genuinely really like him. He honest, vulnerable, loveable, yet strong and freakin seriously sexy and getting powerfully sexier with each passing moment, not just because he's dreamy, but because of the whole package!
This article rocks! I'm in my 30's. I had no interest in the Twilight hype at all. I didn't even think RPattz was remotely attractive. Then one day I was bored, I decided to watch it and loved it! It brought me back to memories of my first love and the intensity of it. I started looking up Robert and just loved his personality. His good humor and laugh just radiated warmth. I found him to be absolutely hilarious. Love love love his wit and how intelligent and articulate he is. Just adds to his tremendous sex appeal! The most appealing thing about him is that he just doesn't care what people think about him (e.g. dirty hair, not an athlete). He's the anti-Hollywood. The anti-Zac Efron who has to look and act perfectly. BARF!!
I'm one of those "blushing moms." I think I adore Robert Pattinson more than both my daughters! Of course, since I am a bit older and wiser, I see more of his "talents" than they. I see a gentleman, I see an artist, I see a human being trying to adjust to this new, crazy fame. I am newly divorced and after experiencing a "crush" on Mr. Pattinson -nowing I was a complete idiot for having same -I decided to wake up, lose weight, and find Mr. Right all over again. Thanks for stirring back up the hormones, Robert!
I love the 13 reasons listed they are so true. If I wasn't old enough to be Robert's mother I would definitely go for him. He is everything I look for in a 40 something year old man. It's amazing how a 23 year old has all of those qualities and you can barely find one in an older man. Thanks for the post it was great!
Kudos to you for a well-written, intelligent and 100% positive article about Rob Pattinson. There are so many negative items written about him, or half positive with a pop of negativity. This was truly brilliant and I believe that this is the real Rob. If not, than he's an even better actor than we presume. I am far from being a teenager, I am smart and I adore Rob. I am also "not" embarrassed by it. With all the reasons you listed, what's not to love?
Bravo to Ms. Kirk for she has seen the truth. This article is about the best I have seen written about Rob. Being a smart 'older' girl myself, I believe that Rob is exactly what he appears to be...Genuine! He is every girl's dream, the guy we've all searched for, the guy some of us have been fortunate enough to know. Even with his tics and faults, Rob is still a role model that young men should aspire to and a glimps of what young ladies should expect. Kudoes to his parents for raising such a great guy and congrates to the girl that gets him.
There are many smart and older women who think he is great but are ashamed to say so perhaps because of the age difference or that we are respected professionals in our own lives. I am, and unashamedly admit that he is very crush-worthy and there is no harm in admiring him from afar. If anything, he sets the standard on how men should be like... interesting, above all. Absolutely agree with all your observations on him...
Nice one Connie! About time some truth comes out about Robert. I couldn't put it better myself... I think people do get lost and stuck in the whole 'Twilight' 'Edward Cullen' thing, and not really see who's behind the character, but you have it down pat, and yes he loves his music, and probably more than acting.. I'm so glad he hasn't changed with the whole spotlight thing!!
This totally explains it all. Watch the movies, listen to the songs, watch the hilarious interviews on You Tube and you'll start putting it all together and come to the above same conclusion ... Perfect article. You nailed it!!
What a great job you did in describing why so many women are attracted to Rob! If you mention said attraction, people seems to attribute a fangirl mentality to you - regardless of age. The opposite is true. The looks draw you in, but it's his personality that generates real affection. He has a very unique combination of traits that we're all lucky to have noticed, and it makes us want the best for him and his career.
Bravo! This article almost exactly explains my idea of who and how Rob is. Whether or not he is truly this way in person does not really matter. It is not like I or anyone I know will be friends with him. Rob is a fantasy. This article just explains why he is.
Connie-You completely confirmed my recent attraction to Robert Pattinson. Those are words truly spoken because that is absolutely why I can't get enough of his humor, personality, and sexy manner. What a cool article...I love it. Keep 'em coming Connie I can't absorb enough about him.
Fantastic article. All the reasons why I love Robert Pattinson, he is so different from all the other young hollywood actors out there today.
Bravo on your article! You've described exactly why many women, not just teenagers, but women adore Robert Pattinson. It's the reasons you've listed as to why he's adored far more and above most of the other actors of his generation.
I was embarrassed to read this and so completely agree. I am in my 30s and scoffed at the Twilight hype. I saw the movie and thought it was "OK." I didn't believe the ages of the actors (thought Rob P looked too old to play 17 and wanted to know the truth) and that sent me on a YouTube journey that has left me in love with Rob Pattinson. I have been shocked at my own reaction and my continued obsession with watching his interviews. His humility was stunning to me. Of all 13 qualities you mention (which I all agree with), it is his very unusual self-depreciating view of himself which is incredibly refreshing and absolutely lovable. I only hope he stays that way. I worry that he may becoming full of himself - his later interviews have a different tone from his earlier ones. We'll see. (I hope that men read this article and learn a few things about what women truly find attractive in men.)
I´m totally agree with that 13 reasons to follow RP movements, wherever he was
Great article, everything written is spot on. Robert Pattinson is an amazing person and I follow him over the internet because I am curious about what he will do next in his performances, films and appearances. He just makes me laugh and feel good inside and all over. Thanks for the article and if you are reading this Rob, a great thanks to you too.
#14 ... If Rob is reading this (and we all know he probably is), I bet he can't make it through all 13 in one sitting before he gets embarrassed. He'll be back to finish it later though! That's why we love him... you nailed it!
This is very thoughtful. Hope that rob will not change over time. Just stay true to yourself.
Great article, I agree on all parts, I'm 30 and to me Rob doesn't seem 23. Hes a true artist and a true artist is hard to come by heart and soul. Being sexy as hell doesn't hurt either. In all seriousness when he does settle down, that is going to be one lucky lady.
Most men could careless about reading, writing being senstive, also Rob being so parnoid all the time makes him so much more real to me.LOL
Good God Connie, your points are right on the money! These are my sentiments exactly! I am recently widowed and to be perfect honest when I read about or see Rob it makes me just plain happy. When I need my spirits lifted, I go on YouTube and laugh at his adorable goofiness or am impressed yet again at what an intelligent and outstanding person he appears to be or am moved anew at his wonderful musical abilities. He gives the term "God's gift to women" a whole new meaning!
Connie, Connie...these are my exact words! You have been reading my blogs, babe! Good job, BTW!
Eloquent and profound - the article, its author, and its muse.
Great article... I agreed with the writer's observation..
Yep... that pretty much sums it up!
Besides this article being 100% accurate, it
made me feel good about myself. That's right: I'm a married mom, age 33, and I needed some validation. Thanks! :O)
I couldn't have said it any better. Being a 30 year old woman, it's strange that I actually feel so passionate about an actor. Especially such a young actor. I thought those days were over once I hit 20. It's a different feeling than it was back then also. Rob is someone that I think that a lot of women would also just like to know as a person. He's not just an object of affection. (Though he is an amazing looking man.) He just seems like a guy that could be anyone's best friend. Loyality in Hollywood is a rarity, but with Rob it's more than apparent than anyone I've ever taken notice to. Rob deserves greatness hands down. He is amazing.
I believe Mr. Pattinson's modesty, great sense-of-humor, honesty, amazing talent and good looks will take him far. Looking forward to his next projects outside of the Twilight series. I hope the people around him (publicist, manager, etc) take care of him...but let him still be himself. Thanks for this article Connie....exactly how I feel. I hope Mr. Pattinson reads this.
Love this.
One should be written on why smart girls love Jackson Rathbone.
awesome.. thanks you.,. that's why I adore Rob Pattinson,
Pages
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!