MomSkoop
TikTok has become one of the most powerful platforms for launching careers in entertainment. What started as viral dance videos and funny skits has turned into real opportunities for many creators.
Some stars went from making content in their bedrooms to landing major acting roles, music deals, and brand partnerships. Here are the creators who successfully turned their TikTok fame into lasting success.
1. Addison Rae
Dancing her way into millions of hearts, Addison Rae became one of the first TikTok creators to break into mainstream Hollywood.
She started posting dance videos in 2019 and quickly gained over 88 million followers.
Her bubbly personality and impressive choreography caught the attention of major entertainment companies.
Addison landed a starring role in the Netflix movie “He’s All That” and signed a multi-picture deal with the streaming service.
She also launched her own beauty brand called Item Beauty and has worked with brands like American Eagle.
Her transition from social media to traditional entertainment shows how TikTok can open doors to bigger opportunities.
At just 23 years old, she’s built an empire that extends far beyond the app.
2. Bella Poarch
With one simple lip-sync video, Bella Poarch created the most-liked TikTok post of all time.
Her video to the song “M to the B” has over 60 million likes and launched her into superstardom.
Born in the Philippines, Bella’s mysterious persona and distinctive tattoos made her instantly recognizable.
She didn’t just stay on TikTok though.
Bella launched a successful music career with her debut single “Build a B*tch” which gained over 600 million views on YouTube.
She’s signed with Warner Records and continues releasing music while maintaining her massive social media presence.
Her journey from Navy veteran to pop star demonstrates the unexpected paths TikTok fame can create.
3. Khaby Lame
Without saying a single word, Khaby Lame became the most-followed person on TikTok.
The Senegalese-Italian creator makes videos silently mocking overcomplicated life hacks with his signature deadpan expression and hand gestures.
His content is universal because it needs no translation.
Khaby went from working in a factory to having over 160 million followers.
He’s landed partnerships with Hugo Boss, appeared at the Cannes Film Festival, and worked with major celebrities.
His success came during the pandemic after he lost his job and started creating content.
Now he’s one of the highest-earning TikTokers and has expanded into acting and modeling opportunities worldwide.
4. Charli D’Amelio
Starting with dance videos in her Connecticut bedroom, Charli D’Amelio became TikTok’s first mega-celebrity.
She was the first person to reach 100 million followers on the platform.
Her relatable teenage energy and impressive dance skills resonated with millions of viewers worldwide.
Charli has since competed on “Dancing with the Stars,” launched a Hulu reality show with her family, and created her own product lines.
She’s worked with Prada, Valentino, and other luxury fashion brands.
Her influence extends beyond social media into mainstream pop culture.
At 20 years old, she’s built a business empire while staying true to the dancing content that made her famous originally.
5. Nara Smith
Imagine making everything from scratch, including bubblegum and Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, all while looking effortlessly glamorous.
Nara Smith became a viral sensation with her “tradwife” cooking videos where she creates elaborate homemade versions of everyday foods.
Her calm voice and stunning appearance while cooking captivated millions of viewers.
She’s married to model Lucky Blue Smith, and their family content adds another layer to her appeal.
Nara has partnered with major brands and appeared in fashion campaigns.
Her unique content style sparked countless parodies and discussions about modern homemaking.
What makes her stand out is how she turned a niche cooking style into mainstream entertainment that keeps people watching.
6. Alix Earle
Getting ready videos became Alix Earle’s ticket to influencer stardom and massive brand deals.
The University of Miami student started sharing her makeup routines and honest product reviews in late 2022.
Her authentic personality and relatable college lifestyle resonated with young women everywhere.
Alix’s influence became so powerful that products she mentions sell out within hours, a phenomenon called “The Alix Earle Effect.” She’s partnered with Amazon, Rare Beauty, and countless other major brands.
Her rapid rise to fame happened in just months, proving that authenticity still matters in social media.
She now attends exclusive events, travels the world, and has become one of the most influential voices in beauty.
7. Zach King
Magic tricks meet digital editing in Zach King’s mind-bending videos that leave viewers wondering how he did it.
Before TikTok existed, Zach was creating illusion videos on YouTube and Vine.
When he joined TikTok, his perfectly edited “magic” videos found an even bigger audience.
He’s worked with major movie studios, appeared in commercials, and written books for young readers.
His creative approach to video editing has earned him over 70 million followers.
Zach’s success shows that high-quality, creative content never goes out of style.
He’s turned his video skills into a full production company and continues pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with smartphone filmmaking.
8. Xandra Pohl
From college dorm rooms to Sports Illustrated model, Xandra Pohl’s journey happened faster than most people could imagine.
She gained attention for her lifestyle content and modeling photos while attending the University of Wisconsin.
Her stunning looks and engaging personality helped her stand out in the crowded influencer space.
Xandra became a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit rookie in 2024, fulfilling a dream many models work years to achieve.
She’s also worked as a correspondent for major events and brands.
Her content mixes modeling work with relatable college experiences and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the fashion industry.
At just 24, she’s proving that social media can accelerate traditional career paths dramatically.
9. Noah Beck
Soccer was supposed to be Noah Beck’s future until TikTok changed everything during the pandemic.
The former college athlete joined TikTok in 2020 and quickly gained millions of followers with his good looks, athletic content, and dance videos.
He became part of the Sway House, a popular TikTok collective.
Noah has since modeled for Hugo Boss, appeared in AwesomenessTV projects, and built a massive brand around his athletic lifestyle.
He’s also dated other famous TikTokers, keeping him in the spotlight.
His transition from college soccer player to full-time content creator happened in just months.
Now he splits time between creating content and pursuing opportunities in fashion and entertainment.
10. Kat Stickler
Divorce doesn’t usually lead to fame, but Kat Stickler turned her separation into relatable comedy gold.
She started making couples’ videos with her then-husband before their split.
After divorcing, Kat continued creating content about single motherhood, dating, and everyday life with refreshing honesty.
Her hilarious takes on parenting and relationships resonated with millions of followers who appreciate her authenticity.
She’s partnered with major brands and appeared on talk shows discussing modern motherhood.
Kat’s willingness to share vulnerable moments while keeping things funny has built her a loyal community.
She proves that you don’t need to be perfect to be successful on social media.
11. Dixie D’Amelio
Being Charli’s older sister could have defined her, but Dixie D’Amelio carved out her own path in music.
She started on TikTok alongside her younger sister but quickly pursued her passion for singing.
Dixie released her debut single “Be Happy” in 2020, which became a massive hit.
She’s since released multiple songs, gone on tour, and signed with major record labels.
Dixie also starred in her family’s Hulu reality show and has worked with fashion brands.
Her music career shows that TikTok fame can be a launching pad rather than the final destination.
She continues balancing social media with serious musical pursuits and performing for live audiences worldwide.
12. Spencer X
Beatboxing might seem like a niche talent, but Spencer X turned mouth percussion into millions of followers.
He creates incredible beatbox covers of popular songs and collaborates with famous musicians.
His unique skill set makes his content instantly recognizable and endlessly entertaining.
Spencer became the first beatboxer to reach 50 million followers on TikTok.
He’s performed with major artists, appeared on television shows, and toured internationally.
His success demonstrates that specialized talents can find huge audiences on TikTok.
Spencer continues pushing beatboxing into mainstream entertainment while inspiring others to develop their unique skills and share them with the world.
13. Mikayla Nogueira
Makeup transformations became Mikayla Nogueira’s specialty, and her Boston accent made her unforgettable.
She started posting makeup tutorials and product reviews with brutally honest opinions.
Her dramatic before-and-after videos and relatable personality helped her gain millions of followers quickly.
Mikayla has partnered with virtually every major beauty brand and launched her own makeup collaborations.
She’s become one of the most influential voices in the beauty industry.
Her impact on product sales is massive, with items she recommends frequently selling out.
Despite some controversies, she remains a powerhouse influencer who turned makeup skills into a multimillion-dollar career through authentic content and undeniable talent.
14. Nessa Barrett
Dark, emotional music found its voice through Nessa Barrett, who transformed from TikTok creator to legitimate recording artist.
She initially gained followers through lip-sync videos but always had musical ambitions.
Nessa began releasing original songs that connected with fans dealing with mental health struggles.
Her debut album explored themes of anxiety, heartbreak, and self-discovery with raw honesty.
She’s toured internationally and built a dedicated fanbase that extends beyond social media.
Nessa’s willingness to discuss difficult topics like eating disorders and mental illness has made her an important voice for young people.
Her evolution from viral creator to serious musician shows the artistic potential within TikTok’s platform.
15. Matt Rife
Stand-up comedy found new life through Matt Rife’s crowd work videos that went massively viral on TikTok.
He’d been doing comedy for years with moderate success before short clips of his shows exploded online.
His quick wit and interactions with audience members became must-watch content.
Matt’s TikTok fame translated into sold-out arena tours and a Netflix special.
He went from small comedy clubs to performing for thousands of people practically overnight.
His good looks combined with genuine comedic talent created a unique appeal that crossed demographics.
While some veteran comedians dismiss TikTok, Matt embraced it and built one of the fastest-growing comedy careers in recent memory.