From TikTok to the Big Screen: Viral Stars Making Waves

In the digital age, social media platforms have not only changed how we communicate and interact but also reshaped the entertainment industry. TikTok, in particular, has emerged as a powerhouse for discovering new talent, turning ordinary individuals into global superstars overnight. Whether it’s through viral dances, funny skits, or relatable moments, TikTok has given rise to a new wave of internet celebrities who have made the leap from the small screen to big-budget films and television projects. These viral stars, once known for short, spontaneous clips, are now being cast in major motion pictures, influencing pop culture in ways that were previously unimaginable.
TikTok’s impact on the entertainment industry has become undeniable. As its user base continues to grow, it’s no surprise that major Hollywood studios, production companies, and even television networks are turning to the platform to find fresh faces for their projects. TikTok stars have proven that they are not just fleeting internet sensations—they can have long-lasting careers in the entertainment industry. In this article, we will explore some of the viral TikTok stars who are now making waves in Hollywood and discuss how TikTok is revolutionizing the way talent is discovered and nurtured.
1. Addison Rae: From TikTok Star to Hollywood Actress
Addison Rae, perhaps one of the most famous TikTok personalities in the world, rose to fame for her dance videos, lip-sync performances, and relatable content. As of 2023, she has amassed over 80 million followers on TikTok, becoming a household name in the process. Her journey to stardom began when she started posting dance videos to popular songs, which quickly went viral and earned her a massive following.
Addison Rae’s transition from TikTok to mainstream Hollywood came in 2021 with her starring role in He’s All That, a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 teen classic She’s All That. In the film, Rae played Padgett, a popular social media influencer who must transform a shy, unpopular classmate (played by Tanner Buchanan) into prom king. While the film didn’t receive overwhelmingly positive reviews, it was a major milestone for Rae, who was suddenly thrust into the world of Hollywood acting.
In addition to her acting career, Addison Rae has ventured into music and fashion, becoming an influencer for major brands like American Eagle and Reebok. Her rise in Hollywood shows how TikTok can be a launchpad for young talent to transition into acting, modeling, and even music. Rae’s success highlights the power of social media and how influencers can leverage their massive following to transition to more traditional entertainment avenues.
2. Charli D’Amelio: TikTok’s Dance Icon Gets into Film and TV
Charli D’Amelio, the most-followed person on TikTok, became an internet sensation due to her captivating dance routines and collaborations with other social media stars. Charli quickly went from posting casual dance videos to becoming a global icon, known for her choreography and easy-to-relate personality. With over 150 million followers on TikTok, D’Amelio’s viral status helped her gain major sponsorships, and soon, Hollywood came calling.
Charli D’Amelio made her acting debut in 2021 in the Hulu series The D’Amelio Show, which documents her rise to fame, personal life, and the dynamics of her family as they navigate their new public lives. While the show is centered on Charli’s family, it gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at her life and the pressures of being in the spotlight at such a young age. D’Amelio’s charisma and relatability made her an instant hit with viewers, further solidifying her place in mainstream entertainment.
In 2025, Charli D’Amelio is expected to star in Time to Dance, a movie that will focus on her journey to becoming a dancer and her rise on TikTok. The film will blend Charli’s real-life story with a fictionalized portrayal, showcasing the evolution of TikTok’s dance culture. The movie’s success is expected to further cement her place in the entertainment industry and could lead to more acting opportunities in the future.
D’Amelio’s trajectory from viral TikTok star to mainstream actress represents the power of social media in discovering new talent and providing them with opportunities that might not have been available before the internet era. TikTok has made it easier than ever for aspiring actors and performers to be noticed by casting directors and industry professionals, creating an entirely new avenue for success in Hollywood.
3. Bella Poarch: Viral Music Career and Acting Projects on the Horizon
Bella Poarch’s rise to fame on TikTok began with her lip-sync videos, most notably her viral video to the song Sophie Aspin Send by Millie B, which earned her millions of views. Her signature eyebrow-raising gesture, combined with her infectious energy, made her one of the most recognized faces on the app. However, Poarch didn’t stop there—she expanded her career into music by releasing the highly successful single Build a Btch* in 2021, which garnered millions of streams worldwide.
Poarch’s success in the music industry has been impressive, and she’s even garnered comparisons to other social media stars-turned-musicians like Billie Eilish. However, Poarch has also expanded her horizons by entering the world of acting. She is set to appear in the upcoming film Dollhouse, which is a live-action adaptation of her music video for Build a Btch*. The film will center on Poarch’s character, who is forced to navigate a dystopian world where she is controlled by societal expectations.
Poarch’s rise to fame shows that TikTok stars can successfully transition not only into acting but also into other forms of entertainment, such as music, fashion, and even producing. With her unique blend of talent and creativity, Poarch is poised to become one of the most influential social media stars to cross over into Hollywood, potentially paving the way for other influencers looking to break into acting.

4. Zach King: Master of Vines and Visual Storytelling Transitions to Film
Zach King is best known for his “magic vines”—short videos that use clever editing tricks to create the illusion of impossible stunts or transformations. His videos, which feature optical illusions and seamless transitions, have earned him millions of followers on TikTok, where he continues to post content that pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling.
King, who initially gained fame on Vine, successfully transitioned from the now-defunct platform to TikTok, where his creative videos garnered viral attention. As of 2023, King’s TikTok account has over 70 million followers, and his ability to blend visual effects with humor has earned him a spot in mainstream media.
King’s journey into the world of film is marked by his partnership with Hollywood studios to create visually stunning commercials, promotional videos, and short films. His work has even landed him opportunities in feature films and TV. King is expected to be a major force in visual storytelling for years to come, with several of his projects currently in development for the big screen.
King’s transition from social media to traditional filmmaking speaks to the growing demand for creators who can bring innovative, visually captivating ideas to film. As more TikTok stars are recognized for their unique storytelling techniques, we can expect more collaborations between influencers and Hollywood.
5. Loren Gray: Music and Movies Collide
Loren Gray became a viral sensation thanks to her lip-sync videos and musical content on TikTok. With over 50 million followers, Gray built a loyal fanbase that extended far beyond TikTok. She has since transitioned to music, releasing singles like Queen and Options, which have garnered significant attention on streaming platforms.
In 2023, Gray ventured into acting with her role in The Hype House, a Netflix reality series that documents the lives of some of TikTok’s biggest stars as they navigate fame and friendships. This project marks the beginning of Gray’s exploration into acting, as she looks to combine her passion for music and film. As her career continues to evolve, Gray’s ability to juggle both music and acting could set a new standard for TikTok stars crossing over into traditional entertainment.
Gray’s future in both music and film is bright, and her growing influence in Hollywood shows that TikTok stars are increasingly viewed as multi-dimensional talents capable of dominating multiple entertainment sectors.
6. Dixie D’Amelio: From TikTok to Music and TV
Dixie D’Amelio, like her sister Charli, has become a household name thanks to her TikTok presence. However, Dixie has used her platform to expand her career into music, with her debut single Be Happy becoming a huge hit in 2020. Her deep, raspy voice and relatable lyrics have gained her a solid following in the music industry, and she has since released an EP and numerous singles.
Dixie has also continued to make waves in television, particularly with her appearance in The D’Amelio Show on Hulu, which chronicles her life, career, and personal experiences with fame. The show has been praised for its portrayal of the challenges and pressures of growing up in the spotlight. As Dixie D’Amelio’s career evolves, she may continue to break new ground as both a musician and an actress.
Conclusion
From viral TikTok videos to Hollywood movie sets, the journey from social media stardom to traditional entertainment has become a common and celebrated path for many influencers. These stars have proven that viral fame is not a passing trend, but a legitimate career launchpad that can open doors in music, film, television, and beyond. The ability of TikTok and other social media platforms to provide global recognition and opportunities for self-expression has revolutionized how talent is discovered, giving a fresh voice to creators who are reshaping the future of entertainment.
As more TikTok stars continue to make the leap from the small screen to the big screen, one thing is clear: social media is no longer just a place for entertainment—it’s a powerful platform that creates cultural icons. The transition from TikTok to Hollywood is no longer a rarity, and it’s a trend that will likely continue, shaping the entertainment industry for years to come.