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Physical appearance and charm--however ill defined it might be--have a huge effect on how we perceive people.  You make reference to the head cheerleader, but rarely is the head cheerleader the most classically beautiful girl in school.  It is a social position reflecting appearance, personality, and ambition.
I am a research scientist and we claim to desire the best and brightest, but we are influenced by demeanor, contenance, and appearance just like everyone else.  Historically, all endeavors are predisposed to believe a particular personality is needed to suceed in that field of choice.  In the 40's there was significant social pressure among jazz musicians to use heroin.  Is a manic disposition required to be a successful novelist?  Do you need to be testosterone fueled missile to suceed in sports?  What about finance?  What about haute cuisine (I can assure you Jacque Pepin endured his series of hazing rituals)?
I believe talent finds the path to success, not historical archetypes, but who declares the winners?  Generally the champions of the prior generation, which is one of the reasons why stereotypes are so powerful and hard to shake.