5 Influencers Who Transitioned From Social Media To Real World Success!

These five influencers have not only dominated social media but also successfully transitioned into mainstream recognition, becoming bona fide household names. From YouTube sensations to viral TikTok stars, these trailblazers have transformed online fame into full-fledged empires!

1. Emma Chamberlain

Emma Chamberlain successfully transitioned from a quirky YouTuber to a fashion icon and founder of Chamberlain Coffee. In 2016, Emma started her YouTube account, where she made quirky vlogs of her coffee runs. As her account grew, she began collaborating with prominent YouTubers of the time, such as the Dolan Twins and Tana Mongeau, which catapulted her even further into the spotlight. By 2019, she launched her $20 million coffee brand, Chamberlain Coffee, and attended Paris Fashion Week in collaboration with Louis Vuitton. Both of these massive milestone events cemented her as more than just a YouTuber but a true phenomenon. 

2. MrBeast

Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, is a YouTube giant. But this wasn’t the case in the early days of his channel. He launched his channel in 2012, and it took 5 years of hard work before he broke through with his first viral video in 2017. From there, his growth skyrocketed. Over the next 3 years, he amassed more than 20 million subscribers, won the Streamy Award for Creator of the Year, and even launched his fast food chain, Beast Burger. By 2022, he had reached 100 million YouTube subscribers. Over the past decade, Jimmy has ventured into philanthropy and various business projects, consistently using his platform to give back in creative and impactful ways. His journey is an example of how hard work pays off.

3. Addison Rae

Addison Rae rose to fame as a TikTok sensation, but she’s been making bold moves into the music and entertainment industries. Once known as a founding member of the Hype House, the face behind countless viral TikToks, and a few cringy-but-iconic Pandemic moments, she’s evolved into a rising pop star. Her collaboration with Charli XCX and her hit song "Diet Pepsi" marked her introduction to the music scene. Her debut album dropped in June, marking a new chapter in her career. Addison is proving she is more than just a social media star. 

4. Jake Shane

Jake Shane is one of the internet’s fastest-rising stars, capturing attention with his signature blend of humor and authenticity. His breakout moment came in 2023 with a viral TikTok, and he’s been unstoppable ever since. In 2024, he launched his hit podcast, "Therapuss", where he has already hosted A-listers such as Ed Sheeran, Charli XCX, Katy Perry, and Glen Powell. Jake’s superpower is his relatability; he knows exactly how to connect with his guests and his audiences. He and Alix Earle make us feel so included, we’re starting to wonder if our group chat invite got lost in the mail.

5. Charli D’Amelio

Charli D'Amelio first created her TikTok account in 2019, and by 2020, she was the most followed account on the platform. She amassed global popularity during the Pandemic, landing a Super Bowl commercial, a spot in Paris Fashion Week, and a reality TV show all within a whirlwind 2 years. She is now performing in & Juliet on Broadway! From dance trends to reality TV to Broadway, she’s carved out a lasting presence beyond the screen.

Each of these online sensations highlights how internet fame can evolve into household name status. They didn’t just ride the wave of social media notoriety; they built brands and reshaped the influencer industry. Their journeys prove that today’s online personalities can become tomorrow’s icons. As the lines between internet fame and real-world impact continue to blur, one thing is clear: the influencer era is thriving and evolving.