Social media has become a springboard for many creators to transition into mainstream success. From YouTube sensations to Instagram stars, their talent and charisma have taken them far beyond the digital world. These influencers have turned online fame into opportunities in acting, music, and even hosting major shows. Their journeys show how the lines between social media and traditional media are blurring. Let’s explore some of the most inspiring stories of influencers who made the leap.
Liza Koshy
Liza Koshy began her online journey in 2013 on Vine, creating comedic skits that quickly garnered attention. Transitioning to YouTube, she continued her comedic content, amassing millions of subscribers. In 2017, Liza made her traditional media debut as the host of Nickelodeon’s Double Dare reboot. She also starred in the Netflix dance-comedy film Work It in 2020. Her engaging personality and comedic timing have earned her several Teen Choice Awards.
Lilly Singh
Known as “Superwoman” on YouTube, Lilly Singh started her channel in 2010, sharing relatable comedic content and motivational videos. Her success online led to her hosting NBC’s late-night talk show A Little Late with Lilly Singh in 2019, making her the first woman of Indian descent to host a U.S. late-night show. Lilly has also authored a New York Times bestselling book, How to Be a Bawse. Her work has earned her a People’s Choice Award for Favorite YouTube Star.
Bo Burnham
Bo Burnham began his career on YouTube in 2006, posting satirical songs and comedy sketches. His unique style caught the attention of traditional media, leading to his first comedy special on Comedy Central in 2010. Bo expanded his talents into filmmaking, writing and directing the critically acclaimed film Eighth Grade in 2018. The film won the Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay. Bo’s journey from online comedy to award-winning filmmaker is truly inspiring.
Colleen Ballinger
Colleen Ballinger created the character “Miranda Sings” on YouTube in 2008, parodying untalented singers who believe they’re destined for fame. The character’s popularity led to the Netflix original series Haters Back Off, which premiered in 2016. Colleen’s portrayal of Miranda has been praised for its originality and humor. She has also appeared on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Colleen’s ability to bring a YouTube character to mainstream media is a testament to her creativity.
Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s rise to fame began in 2007 when he posted cover songs on YouTube. His talent caught the attention of music executive Scooter Braun, leading to a record deal and the release of his debut album My World in 2009. Justin has since become a global pop sensation, winning numerous awards, including a Grammy for Best Dance Recording. His journey from YouTube covers to international stardom is a remarkable success story.
Troye Sivan
Troye Sivan started his YouTube channel in 2007, sharing vlogs and music covers. His online presence helped launch his music career, with his debut EP TRXYE reaching number five on the Billboard 200 in 2014. Troye has also ventured into acting, starring in films like Boy Erased in 2018. His work has earned him several awards, including a Billboard Music Award for Top Dance/Electronic Album. Troye’s seamless transition from YouTube to music and film showcases his multifaceted talent.
Grace Helbig
Grace Helbig began her YouTube career in 2008 with her daily vlog series DailyGrace. Her witty humor and relatable content gained her a substantial following. In 2015, Grace hosted her own late-night talk show, The Grace Helbig Show, on E!. She has also authored two books, both of which became New York Times bestsellers. Grace’s ability to engage audiences across different media platforms highlights her versatility.
Issa Rae
Issa Rae gained recognition with her YouTube web series Awkward Black Girl in 2011, which humorously depicted the life of a socially awkward black woman. The series’ success led to HBO picking up her show Insecure, which premiered in 2016 and received critical acclaim. Issa has been nominated for multiple Golden Globe and Emmy Awards for her work on Insecure. Her journey from YouTube to HBO underscores her storytelling prowess.
Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes started by posting song covers on Vine in 2013, quickly gaining a large following. His online popularity led to a record deal, and he released his debut album Handwritten in 2015, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Shawn has since become a prominent figure in the music industry, earning several awards, including American Music Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards. His rise from social media to global music stages is a testament to his talent.
Cameron Dallas
Cameron Dallas gained fame on Vine in 2012 with his comedic videos. His popularity led to roles in films like Expelled in 2014 and the Netflix series Chasing Cameron in 2016, which provided a behind-the-scenes look at his life. Cameron has also ventured into music, releasing singles and performing live. His ability to leverage social media fame into acting and music showcases his adaptability.
Kian Lawley
Kian Lawley began his YouTube career in 2010, creating comedic and lifestyle content. His online success opened doors to acting, with roles in films like The Chosen in 2015 and Before I Fall in 2017. Kian’s performances have earned praise for their depth and relatability. He also won the Teen Choice Award for Choice YouTuber in 2015. His journey from YouTube star to serious actor highlights his versatility and dedication. Kian remains a fan favorite for his engaging personality both online and on screen.
Bethany Mota
Bethany Mota started her YouTube channel in 2009, focusing on fashion, beauty, and DIY content. Her bubbly personality and creative ideas helped her quickly gain millions of followers. In 2014, she competed on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, becoming the first social media influencer to participate in the show. Bethany has also launched her own fashion line and collaborated with major brands. Her success exemplifies how social media can pave the way for mainstream achievements.
King Bach
King Bach, whose real name is Andrew Bachelor, rose to fame on Vine in 2013 with his hilarious six-second skits. His comedic timing and creativity made him the most-followed person on the platform. Transitioning to traditional media, he appeared in TV shows like The Mindy Project and movies such as Fifty Shades of Black. King Bach has also earned nominations for Streamy Awards for his comedy. His ability to maintain his unique humor across platforms has cemented his career in entertainment.
Charli D’Amelio
Charli D’Amelio became a TikTok sensation in 2019 with her dance videos and engaging personality. Her meteoric rise made her one of the platform’s most-followed creators within a year. In 2022, she and her family starred in the Hulu series The D’Amelio Show, giving fans a glimpse into their lives. Charli has also competed on Dancing with the Stars, winning the Mirrorball Trophy in 2022. Her transition from TikTok to television showcases her growing influence in both digital and traditional media.
Noah Centineo
Noah Centineo’s early success on Vine in 2013 paved the way for his acting career. While he gained popularity for comedic and relatable videos, he made his big break in Netflix’s romantic comedy To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before in 2018. His charming performances earned him accolades, including a Teen Choice Award for Choice Comedy Movie Actor. Noah’s ability to connect with audiences online and on screen has made him a fan favorite. He continues to balance his social media presence with high-profile acting roles.
Emma Chamberlain
Emma Chamberlain started her YouTube journey in 2017, sharing relatable and humorous lifestyle content. Her quirky editing style and candid personality made her a viral sensation. By 2021, she had stepped into traditional media, hosting red carpet interviews for Vogue at the Met Gala. Emma has also won Streamy Awards and was included in Time’s list of the 100 Most Influential People on the Internet. Her ability to bridge the gap between digital and traditional media has solidified her status as a cultural icon.
Logan Paul
Logan Paul gained fame on Vine in 2013, creating outrageous and comedic content. After Vine’s shutdown, he transitioned to YouTube, where his vlogs reached millions. In 2018, Logan ventured into acting with appearances in movies like The Thinning and TV shows such as Law & Order: SVU. He has also gained recognition as a professional boxer, participating in high-profile matches. Logan’s multi-faceted career demonstrates his ability to adapt and thrive in various entertainment fields.
JoJo Siwa
JoJo Siwa began her career on YouTube in 2015, sharing dance tutorials, music videos, and vlogs aimed at younger audiences. Her colorful personality and signature bows made her a hit among children and teens. She transitioned to television, appearing on shows like Dance Moms and later starring in her own Nickelodeon specials. JoJo has won multiple Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for her influence and entertainment. Her career continues to grow as she balances music, television, and her online brand.
Addison Rae
Addison Rae became a TikTok star in 2019 with her dance and lip-sync videos. Her popularity led to opportunities in traditional media, including starring in the Netflix movie He’s All That in 2021. Addison has also ventured into music and fashion, releasing singles and launching her own beauty line. Her rise in both social media and Hollywood has earned her spots on Forbes’ lists of top-earning influencers. Addison’s success highlights the power of social media as a stepping stone to broader fame.
Michelle Phan
Michelle Phan started her YouTube channel in 2007, sharing makeup tutorials and beauty tips. Her innovative content helped her become one of the platform’s first beauty gurus. In 2015, Michelle co-founded the makeup brand EM Cosmetics and became a global ambassador for Lancôme. Her transition into traditional media included partnerships with major beauty brands and features in publications like Vogue. Michelle’s pioneering role in the beauty industry set the stage for countless creators to follow.
David Dobrik
David Dobrik began his career on Vine in 2013, sharing comedic skits and collaborations. He transitioned to YouTube, where his vlogs and pranks gained a massive following. In 2019, he hosted the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, further solidifying his mainstream presence. David has won numerous Streamy Awards for his content, showcasing his impact on digital and traditional media. His innovative style and ability to entertain across platforms have made him a household name.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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