Lizzie Maguire, a name well known by many of the younger generations of today. The person behind the character, Hilary Duff, a teenage girl who’s rise to stardom started off with the popularity of Lizzie Maguire in the show which bears the same name. Now no longer just a small fry in the industry, Hilary Duff has become another one of Hollywood’s Masters of Media. With a well established fan base of her show which later made it to the big screens, a new album (Metamorphosis) debuting at the top of the charts, and her own clothing and accessories line (Stuff by Hilary Duff), Hilary has made a big name for herself in North America.

How many little girls in N.A. do not recognize the name Lizzie Maguire? Not very many, that much I’m sure of. Since Disney channel’s original series hit the air they’ve been tuning in and watching with much interest. It soon became one of Disney channel’s highest rated shows. The image that was being presented with her character was one in which that concerned/protective parents would approve of and young teenage girls could look up to. Hilary became a big star on the small screen and her name practically became it’s own brand name. With the success of the show, Hilary branched out and played one of the lead roles in a Disney original film (Cadet Kelly) which got spectacular ratings for the channel. It was obvious that Lizzie Maguire now had a strong following. In 2003 “The Lizzie Maguire Movie” was released in theatres. The film, due to the wide popularity of the show did unsurprisingly well. Starring in other films such as “Agent Cody Banks” and to be released titles such as “Cinderella Story” and “Cheaper by the Dozen” Duff has broken into the movie industry while still maintaining a firm grip on television with the Lizzie Maguire show.

Acting isn’t the only thing Hilary Duff has got in mind. Music has found a way into her career as well. Hilary’s new album Metamorphosis debuted in the number 1 spot on American music charts. Even before hand, a single off the Lizzie Maguire soundtrack entitled “I Can’t Wait” was released on CD and quickly went platinum. A Christmas album featuring other artists was also released and also did fairly well. This is just the beginning for Hilary’s music career. If things hold up, which they inevitably will, you can expect to see much more of Hilary Duff in the music scene, a role model unlike the skin baring Britney Spears. All of this helps with the strengthening of the Hilary Duff name.

“Stuff by Hilary Duff” the clothing and accessories line bearing the actor/singer’s famous name is mostly popular for that reason. Anything Hilary was strong and the large amount of merchandising was the evidence. Toys were made, video games were created, books were written and sold. It’s only the beginning of the Hilary Duff Empire with plenty of room for growth. The strength of her popularity won’t fade soon and neither will her presence in media.

If you don’t know who Hilary Duff is, chances are you know Lizzie Maguire. That’s quite alright to Hilary because it still sells the brand. Her face is likely recognized if both names don’t ring a bell. She is on T.V. many hours a week, has a few hit movies under her belt, with more to come, a promising music career, and a great merchandising campaign. Hilary Duff is undoubtedly well known and is a master of media. For those who are oblivious to the names, count yourself as a minority.