7 Celebrities and Giants Who Use Teleprompters (And You Didn't Even Know)
There is a myth that using a teleprompter is "cheating" or a sign that you don't master the subject. The truth? The world's greatest communicators use it. The difference is they use it so well it looks natural. If Barack Obama and Adele use it, why should you be ashamed?
The Truth About "Naturalness"
Naturalness in video doesn't come from memorizing text, it comes from being relaxed. And nothing relaxes you more than knowing exactly what you're going to say. The teleprompter doesn't take away emotion; it frees your mind to focus on emotion instead of memory.
The VIP List
1. Adele and Elite Musicians
Yes, even Adele admits it. In big shows, singers use teleprompters (often disguised on the stage floor) to remember lyrics to old or new songs. This ensures the show flows without "blanking out."
Lesson: Respect for the audience is not getting the lyrics wrong.
2. Barack Obama
Known as one of the greatest modern orators, Obama elevated the use of the presidential teleprompter to an art form. He shifts his gaze between the two glass panels so naturally that the audience feels he is speaking directly to each person.
3. News Anchors
Do you really think they memorize 1 hour of news every day? Anchors read 100% of the time. Their skill lies in dynamic reading and intonation, not memorization.
4. TED Talks Speakers
Although the TED format encourages memorization ("talk like you feel it"), many speakers use confidence monitors on the floor that act as teleprompters with bullet points or full text.
5. Giant YouTubers
Tech, science, and education channels (like Kurzgesagt, VSauce, or top tech review channels) use rigorous scripts. To maintain a fast pace (famous "retention editing"), reading is essential to avoid stuttering and facilitate cuts.
How to Use Like a Pro (Quick Tips)
- Distance is Key: Stand at least 1 meter (3 feet) from the camera to reduce eye movement.
- Write Like You Speak: Use colloquial language in the script. Don't use formal words if you don't speak that way.
- Use PromptNinja: Adjust the speed to your natural speech, don't try to chase the text. The text should follow you.