Over the past few years, TikTok has exploded in popularity. What began as a lip-syncing app has grown into one of the most downloaded and used social media platforms in the world. As of September 2023, TikTok had over 1.8 billion monthly active users worldwide[1]. In the US alone, the app has seen astronomical growth, with over 128 million monthly active users as of January 2024 [2].
With its addictive short videos and powerful algorithm, TikTok has given rise to a new breed of internet celebrity. Top TikTok creators like Charli D’Amelio, Addison Rae, and Khaby Lame have follower counts in the tens or even hundreds of millions. Being named the TikTok Creator of the Year is now one of the highest honors a social media personality can receive.
The TikTok Creator of the Year award celebrates the creator who has had the biggest impact in culture and on the platform that year. More than just follower count or views, TikTok looks for someone whose creativity and authenticity have inspired trends, future creators, and the wider TikTok community.[3]
[1] https://www.statista.com/topics/6077/tiktok/
[2] https://backlinko.com/tiktok-users
[3] https://backlinko.com/tiktok-users
About Charli D’Amelio
Charli D’Amelio became popular on TikTok starting in 2019 when she was just 15 years old. She quickly amassed millions of followers with her viral dance videos to popular songs. Some of her most well-known dances have been to songs like “Renegade” by Big Freedia and “Lottery” by K Camp (source: https://hypeauditor.com/tiktok/charlidamelio/).
In under a year on the app, Charli reached over 50 million followers faster than anyone else on TikTok. As of January 2024, she now has over 150 million followers and averages around 7 million views per video she posts (source: https://socialblade.com/tiktok/user/charlidamelio). She is currently the most-followed person on TikTok.
Her popularity on the app has led to brand sponsorships, TV appearances, launching her own podcast, and more. The Connecticut teenager has become one of the biggest social media stars from her viral TikTok dances.
Charli’s Impact on TikTok
Charli D’Amelio pioneered dance trends and heavily influenced pop culture after joining TikTok in 2019 (https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/how-charli-damelio-became-the-face-of-tiktok). She quickly amassed a huge following with her choreography and dance videos. D’Amelio helped popularize many dances like the “Renegade” that then spread through TikTok and mainstream culture. According to the New Yorker, “Users were able to gain exposure at a faster rate, and, at the time, no one was doing dance content” (https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/how-charli-damelio-became-the-face-of-tiktok).
D’Amelio has also collaborated with many top creators like Addison Rae and James Charles on dance videos. These collaborations helped boost her popularity while also promoting fellow creators. Charli’s impact on TikTok through pioneering dances and collaborations was a major factor in her success.
Charli Named TikTok Creator of 2020
In December 2020, Charli D’Amelio was named TikTok’s Creator of the Year at the second annual TikTok Awards. According to TikTok, this honor goes to the creator who “made an indelible impact on the platform, while showing an embodiment of TikTok culture.”
Charli rose to fame in 2019 and quickly became one of the most popular users on TikTok. By 2020, she had reached over 100 million followers on the app. Her lighthearted lip-sync and dance videos helped establish many TikTok trends and challenges. According to Forbes, Charli was already the highest-earning female TikTok personality in 2019 at just 15 years old [1].
In winning Creator of the Year, TikTok cited Charli’s creativity, positivity, and ability to connect with her massive audience. They praised how she consistently provided entertainment and inspiration during a difficult year. Her talent and unrelenting work ethic allowed her to continue growing an engaged following and defining culture on the platform.
Response to the News
Charli was extremely grateful and honored to be named the Breakout Creator of 2020. In an emotional video posted after the announcement, she thanked her fans and expressed how unbelievable it felt to receive the award.
Many of Charli’s fans and fellow creators showed an outpouring of support on social media after the announcement. Fans praised her creativity, work ethic, and fun personality in making such engaging videos. Other top creators like Addison Rae congratulated Charli and said the honor was well-deserved.
However, some people criticized the choice, arguing that Charli simply got famous by doing basic dances to trending songs. A few said smaller or undiscovered creators were more deserving of the Breakout Creator award.
But most agreed that given Charli’s astronomical growth on TikTok and her impact on culture in 2020, she was a fitting choice for Breakout Creator of the year.
What This Means for Charli
Being named TikTok’s creator of the year for 2020 is a huge accomplishment for Charli D’Amelio that will likely lead to even more fame and opportunities. At just 16 years old, Charli already has over 100 million followers on TikTok, making her the platform’s most followed creator (People). This latest recognition further cements her status as TikTok royalty.
The title will likely make Charli an even hotter commodity for potential sponsors and partners. She already has deals with major brands like Hollister and Morphe, but more lucrative partnerships will probably come calling now. Charli and her family have built an entire business off of their social media fame, with endorsements, merchandising and other revenue streams. This will provide even more opportunities to grow that business and their net worth, which is estimated to be in the tens of millions (Forbes).
The designation of creator of the year will likely make Charli a go-to person for advice and best practices for other aspiring TikTok stars. Her status on the platform is unmatched. While fame at such a young age comes with pitfalls, this achievement shows Charli’s talent for connecting with audiences and creating engaging content. For other young creators hoping to find social media success, Charli is now one of the ultimate role models and pioneers.
The Competition
Indy Clinton faced some tough competition for TikTok Creator of the Year. Some of the other top creators nominated included Andy Hearnden, known for his recipes and cooking tips, and Angelo Marasigan, known for his dance videos and trending challenges. Both creators amassed millions of followers in 2023 and created some of the app’s most viral videos.
Andy Hearnden, whose account is @andy_cooks, became hugely popular for his simple and fun cooking tutorial videos. He gained over 5 million followers in 2023 alone. His relaxed style of cooking instruction resonated with viewers, as did his useful tips for making tasty meals easily at home. Some of Andy’s top videos included 3 Ingredient Pesto Pasta, 2 Ingredient Banana Ice Cream, and 5 Minute Breakfast Quesadilla.
Angelo Marasigan, known as @_angelomarasigan on TikTok, grew his account dramatically by participating in dance challenges and trending meme formats. His expressive dance skills helped him gain over 4 million new followers in 2023. Some of his top videos included trending dances set to pop songs like About Damn Time by Lizzo and As It Was by Harry Styles. Angelo’s charismatic personality shined through in his creative videos.
While Indy Clinton ultimately took the grand prize, Andy and Angelo had standout years on TikTok as well. Their popularity and achievements speak to the level of talent within the TikTok community.
Charli’s Future Plans
Charli D’Amelio has hinted at several exciting upcoming projects for 2021 (Mar. 2021). In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she discussed starting a new makeup line with her sister Dixie and mentioned potential music collaborations. Based on current trends, many predict that Charli will continue gaining followers and cementing her status as TikTok’s biggest star. She may explore new content formats like YouTube vlogs or a Spotify podcast. Some analysts forecast Charli launching a major brand partnership or merchandise line given her massive popularity. With over 100 million TikTok followers, Charli’s 2021 seems bright, though she’ll likely aim to maintain an authentic connection with fans.
Advice for Aspiring Creators
As one of TikTok’s most successful creators, Charli D’Amelio has valuable insights for those looking to build their own audience on the platform. She recommends consistently posting quality content, finding your niche, and engaging with your viewers.
“Post as much as you can,” says Charli. “Consistency is key on TikTok if you want to grow a following.” She advises creators to set a posting schedule and stick to it, while also taking the time to craft high-quality videos.
In terms of niche, Charli found success in dance, but notes you can find an audience for virtually any interest. “Don’t be afraid to be yourself and let your personality shine through in your content,” she suggests. This authenticity helps connect with viewers.
Charli also stresses the importance of engaging with your audience. Respond to comments, create TikTok duets, and go live often. This makes followers feel invested. “Remember that your fans are the reason you’re able to do what you love,” she says.
By combining consistency, quality, authenticity and audience interaction, Charli crafted a formula for TikTok fame. Aspiring creators can draw inspiration from her approach as they work to build their own successful channels on the platform.
The Takeaway
Charli D’Amelio’s journey to fame and success on TikTok has resonated with creators and fans alike. As one of the pioneers of the platform, Charli helped pave the way for the many creators that have followed in her footsteps. Her authentic personality and relatable content quickly amassed a massive following, making her one of the most recognizable faces on TikTok.
Being named TikTok Creator of the Year for 2023 cements Charli’s status as an icon of the platform. Her creativity, consistency, and connection with her audience have helped her stand out in a crowded field. This recognition is not only a testament to Charli’s talent, but also underscores her lasting impact on the culture of TikTok.
Looking ahead, Charli’s award sets the tone for the future of the app. As TikTok continues to grow, Charli will likely remain one of its brightest stars. Her success story demonstrates how creators can leverage the platform to build powerful personal brands and thriving careers. For the next generation of TikTok users turned creators, Charli provides an aspirational model of what’s possible.
