Famous? Really?

My wife and I have had this discussion a few times. How do people become famous when they've done absolutely nothing to merit such accolades? This topic first came up when one of the Kardashian girls was in the news for no other reason than being famous. Famous for what, I'm not sure. Paris Hilton is another person of superstar status, and the only accomplishment she's had are amateur sex tapes. Other people do that and they're arrested. What makes these people so desirable to the public, that launches them to stardom, outside of a name they've inherited? They have no talent, they've done nothing of special merit, they haven't participated in any type of philanthropic work, they haven't even rescued a cat from a tree. I just don't see the enthrallment. People like this would be treated like a middle class citizen in my presence. There would be no special treatment, and I would demand respect from such individuals. I wouldn't be harsh, but definitely firm. And whining and crying just turn me into a cold piece of granite. There would be absolutely no sympathy on my behalf if complaining were part of the equation. I understand certain people need their ego stroked from time to time, and some actively pursue rock star status, but until you've proven yourself a genuine human being with something tangible to offer mankind, please step to the back of the line, and wait your turn.