What its look like to be Celebrity Bodyguard?

Close protection operators (CPOs) offer these services for celebrities, but companies and individuals offering these services must contend with a unique set of challenges.

CPOs must navigate the spotlight that comes with a principal's celebrity status and the surrounding fans. Many in the close protection field aspire to become celebrity bodyguards, as it allows them to travel the world and live an exciting life. However, the primary responsibility of a close protection agent is to ensure the safety and security of a celebrity.

Despite working to keep their principal safe, celebrities often disregard safety protocols in certain situations. A compromise between the CPO and the celebrity is necessary to achieve the goal of creating a safe environment.

CPOs must also learn to work with the press and paparazzi, as they are an unavoidable aspect of the job. In all close protection situations, CPOs must maintain confidentiality and avoid discussing anything that occurs, what they see, or what they know about their principal, celebrity, or anyone else. Unfortunately, many close protection personnel, particularly celebrity bodyguards, still struggle with the ability to "not see, hear, or speak about evil celeb behavior." This can be seen in the number of "celebrity bodyguard tell-all" articles found online.

It's important to note that a CPO may be tempted to compromise confidentiality for personal gain, such as notoriety or increased business. However, once a celebrity bodyguard establishes trust with their principal, the work becomes easier. Ideally, a CPO should speak with their principal about their preferred method of operation in order to create a secure environment.

As Ronald Eastman, CEO of Eastman Protective Agency, shares from his experience as a CPO for celebrities, "one thing you should know when you have this job is that you are not their friend, and it's easy to become what I call 'buddy guards'. When you cross the line, it's hard to get back. One thing a celebrity hates to hear is 'No,' so you have to establish where your boundaries are."

Working with celebrities is more complex than one may think. It requires careful logistical planning, and protection requires being aware of inappropriate human behavior. This is not something one usually needs to manage in other security positions.