Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet - IELTS Cue Card

The IELTS Speaking test is categorized into three different parts and the test takes between 11 and 14 minutes to be completed. It is more like an interview, and it happens between the test taker and a certified IELTS examiner.

Now let’s briefly see what happens in IELTS Speaking parts 1, 2, 3 and then look at the 'Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet' sample answers!

Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

You will be required to answer questions related to you like in IELTS Speaking Part 1 – home, family, friends, and your interests. (4-5 minutes)

Speaking Part 2: Cue Card

This is an IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue card round. You will be handed over a question in a cue card by the examiner and you will be asked to talk about it for 2 minutes. You will also have 1 minute to prepare for it. (3-4 minutes)

Speaking Part 3: Two-Way Discussion

This IELTS Speaking Part 3 is a follow-up task of part 2 that consists of questions based on the Part 2 topic. (4-5 minutes)

Below are three band 8 sample answers for the cue card topic, “Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet”. Read the expert-crafted sample answers on the topic to get a clear understanding of how to answer a cue card.

Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet – Sample Answer 1

Who is he/ she?

Well, not all famous people intrigue me much. But, if given the opportunity, there are some personalities I’d like to meet in person. Tom Hanks is one of these people.

Tom Hanks rose to fame in the 1980s owing to a succession of well-received comedies he starred. From then, he steadily moved towards dramatic roles, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role and establishing Hanks as a serious character actor in a leading man’s shoes. Tom Hanks has had an enduring effect on 21st-century pop culture and the contemporary zeitgeist because of his outstanding filmography and friendly, everyman attitude. You may know that he is the man behind “Forrest Gump,” “Cast Away,” and “Toy Story.”

What is he /she famous for?

Tom Hanks is a method actor in addition to being tremendously versatile. He makes an effort to become emotionally synced with the character he is portraying. He convinces you that he is the character he is portraying, whether it is a somewhat slow man with a golden heart, a Fed-Ex clerk stuck on a barren island or a ship captain.

He tends to attempt to connect with everyone he meets on a personal level and takes the time to speak with his admirers, and there are several accounts of him meeting admirers and bringing them gifts.

What would you do if you met him /her?

If I met him, I would tell him how incredible he is and ask him about his greatest filmmaking memories. I’d also like to know if he’s always wanted to be an actor and what makes him so enthusiastic about it. I’d also like to ask Hanks how he was able to flourish after failing in his early years.

At times, we look around for inspiration all across the world. It is propitious for one to look for some sort of inspiration that fuels up one’s energy or succours one’s falling spirit. However, sometimes what we seek is present within our closely knitted circle. That circle is our family where we generally don’t seek such motivation. I, too, was looking for such an inspiration once when I came to know of my uncle.

Vocabulary

1. Intrigue

Meaning: To arouse one’s curiosity or interest.

Example Sentence: Tom Hanks’ impressive acting skills and versatile roles have always intrigued me.

2. Zeitgeist

Meaning: The general intellectual, moral, and cultural climate of an era.

Example Sentence: Tom Hanks has left a significant mark on the zeitgeist of the film industry with his iconic roles.

3. Method actor

Meaning: An actor who uses techniques that involve personal experiences and emotions to better understand and portray a character.

Example Sentence: Tom Hanks is known as a method actor for his ability to deeply connect with the characters he portrays.

4. Admirers

Meaning: People who have a deep respect and liking for someone.

Example Sentence: Tom Hanks is adored by countless admirers worldwide for his talent and kindness.

5. Propitious

Meaning: Indicating a good chance of success or favorable conditions.

Example Sentence: Meeting Tom Hanks would be a propitious opportunity for anyone passionate about acting.

Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet – Sample Answer 2

Who is he/ she?

To tell you about a famous person I would like to meet, it would be Angelina Jolie – an Oscar-winning Hollywood actress.

She was born in the USA, in a family of actors. She began performing on the stage from a tender age and turned into a model when she was merely 16. Till date, she has appeared in a gamut of music videos as well. As far as her Hollywood career is concerned, it started flourishing in the mid-1990s.

What is he /she famous for?

Apart from being a marvellous and jaw-dropping actress, she is also a social activist and humanitarian. In addition to this, she has also been a UN Goodwill Ambassador. Angelina Jolie acquired fame because of her non-acting appearances and activities in international charity programs. She is known for her intelligence, ready wits, and dazzling beauty. Although I have seen plenty of her movies, I specifically started liking her after watching Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Gradually, she has managed to become the second most wanted female actor in Hollywood.

What would you do if you met him /her?

Upon meeting, I would like to discuss all of her best performances with her. I would like to share such incidents when she inspired me to the core. Also, I would humbly request her for a photograph with me. I would like to know how she feels about being one of the top actresses in the world.

Vocabulary

1. Gamut

Meaning: The complete range or scope of something.

Example: The new art exhibition featured a gamut of styles, from traditional paintings to modern digital installations.

2. Flourishing

Meaning: Developing rapidly and successfully; thriving.

Example: The tech startup is flourishing, with its profits doubling every quarter.

3. Jaw-dropping

Meaning: Extremely impressive, surprising, or shocking.

Example: The view from the mountaintop was absolutely jaw-dropping, with the entire city spread out below.

4. Humanitarian

Meaning: A person who seeks to promote human welfare and social reform, typically through charitable or philanthropic activities.

Example: The humanitarian spent years working in war-torn regions, providing aid to those in need.

Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet – Sample Answer 3

Who is he/ she?

Like how others prepare a bucket list or a to-do list, I have been adding innumerable celebrities to my to-meet list since my early childhood. Also, I have been extremely inclined toward reading, books, and imagination from my school days. Thus, it was quite natural for me to have plenty of authors dominating my list. One of the names that top the chart is Paulo Coelho.

A world-renowned novelist and Brazilian lyricist, Paulo Coelho has managed to make an appreciative place in the hearts of most readers. The reason behind meeting him is that I thoroughly relish his writings and have been touched by most of his stories. Diving deeper into his writings, I find this urge to meet him in person and get to know the person behind those words.

What is he /she famous for?

As far as the books are concerned, I am head over heels in love with Alchemist. I have read this book a gazillion times. It is thought-provoking, fascinating, and inspiring at the same time. One of the jaw-dropping facts about this book is that it has been translated into 67 languages and has acquired innumerable critically acclaimed and positive reviews. Since I know very little about the man behind this success, I am more than eager to have a conversation with him once in my life.

What would you do if you met him /her?

I would like to state that writers possess magical powers that help them blend a bit of truth and imagination to create long-lasting, remarkable stories. Who knows, meeting Paulo Coelho might help me develop that magical trait as well.

Vocabulary

1. Inclined

• Meaning: Feeling a natural tendency or urge to do something.
• Example: She has always been inclined to help others, even from a young age.

2. Novelist

• Meaning: A writer of novels, which are works of fiction.
• Example: The famous novelist has written numerous bestsellers over the years.

3. Gazillion

• Meaning: An informal and exaggerated way of saying an extremely large, indefinite number.
• Example: After the successful launch, they received a gazillion orders for their product.

4. Critically acclaimed

• Meaning: Receiving highly positive reviews and recognition from critics.
• Example: The film was critically acclaimed for its powerful performances and compelling storyline.

5. Long-lasting

• Meaning: Having a durable or extended duration, often referring to things that endure over time.
• Example: The antique furniture in the family has been passed down for generations, showing its long-lasting quality.

Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet – Part 3 Questions

1. What do you think makes a person famous in today’s world?

In today’s world, fame can be achieved through various means. Celebrities from the entertainment industry often gain fame through their talent in acting, music, or sports. Additionally, public figures like politicians or social activists become famous due to their contributions and influence in their respective fields.

2. Why do people often want to meet famous individuals?

People are often eager to meet famous individuals for several reasons. Firstly, celebrities and famous personalities are seen as role models, and meeting them in person allows their fans to be inspired and motivated by their success stories. Secondly, meeting famous people can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with individuals who have made significant contributions to society or culture. It’s a chance to learn from their experiences and gain valuable insights.

3. Are there any downsides to meeting a famous person?

Yes, there can be certain drawbacks to meeting a popular person. One potential downside is the invasion of their privacy. Celebrities often have very limited personal space and are constantly in the public eye. Meeting them might add to this intrusion, and they might not have the freedom to be themselves during such encounters. Another downside can be the possibility of disappointment. Sometimes, people build up high expectations when meeting a famous individual, and if the meeting doesn’t meet these expectations, it can lead to disappointment.

4. How do celebrities influence their fans and society?

Celebrities hold significant influence over their fans and society as a whole. Their actions, opinions, and lifestyles are closely followed, and they can use their platform to bring attention to important issues. For instance, they can advocate for social causes, raise awareness about environmental problems, or promote charitable activities.

5. In what ways can meeting a famous person benefit someone?

Meeting a famous person can bring several benefits to someone. Firstly, it can be an inspiring and motivational experience. Meeting a famous individual who has achieved success against the odds can encourage others to pursue their dreams and work hard towards their goals. Secondly, it can provide networking opportunities, especially if the famous person is from a field of interest to the individual. Hence, such connections can open doors to career or personal opportunities.

Vocabulary

Influence

• Meaning: To have an effect on the behaviour, decisions, or opinions of others.
• Example: Her speeches on environmental issues have the power to influence public awareness and encourage action.

Inspiration

• Meaning: Something that stimulates creative thought, motivation, or enthusiasm.
• Example: His journey from poverty to success serves as an inspiration to anyone facing adversity.

Disappointment

• Meaning: A feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction when one’s expectations are not met.
• Example: The movie received rave reviews, but some viewers expressed disappointment with the ending.

Networking

• Meaning: The act of creating and maintaining professional relationships for career or business opportunities.
• Example: Attending industry conferences is an excellent way to expand your professional network.

Intrusion

• Meaning: The act of entering someone’s personal space or affairs without permission or welcome.
• Example: Constant media intrusion into the private lives of celebrities can be overwhelming and stressful.

The given topic “Describe a Famous Person You Would Like to Meet” with the expert-crafted sample answers would have been of much help. Kindly make sure to use your own vocabulary and style of speaking to grab that Band 8 in the IELTS Speaking test!

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