In a world where social media fame can skyrocket overnight, the boundaries between viral stars and mainstream celebrities are increasingly blurred. The hosts of "Who? Weekly" dive into this phenomenon, examining whether figures like Addison Rae qualify as genuine celebrities. While Addison Rae has crossed that threshold, Brittany Broski remains firmly in the "who" category rather than the "them." This exploration delves into how micro-influencers navigate their way into broader media landscapes, challenging traditional notions of fame.
Brittany Tomlinson, known online as Brittany Broski, gained national attention through a simple TikTok video tasting kombucha. This moment catapulted her into various opportunities including Super Bowl advertisements, podcast ventures, and even launching a music career with a cover of Harry Styles' hit "Adore You." Despite these accomplishments, her recognition is largely confined to TikTok circles. As fleeting news cycles and influencers merge into mainstream media spectacles, discerning true celebrity status becomes complex. For pop culture journalists Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber, it's an intriguing challenge they tackle on their podcast "Who? Weekly," categorizing individuals into aspiring or established celebrities.
The Rise of TikTok Influencers
TikTok has become a breeding ground for new-age celebrities, reshaping the dynamics of fame. Figures such as Brittany Tomlinson have leveraged single viral moments into multi-faceted careers spanning advertising, media, and music. Although her reach extends significantly beyond initial TikTok fame, her household recognition remains limited to digital spheres. The evolution from a fleeting viral sensation to a sustainable career in mainstream media highlights shifting paradigms within celebrity culture.
Tomlinson’s journey exemplifies how modern influencers transition from brief moments of internet stardom into more enduring presences across diverse platforms. Her initial kombucha-tasting TikTok video became a cultural touchstone, leading to high-profile opportunities like Super Bowl ads and red carpet gigs. However, despite these achievements, her name does not yet resonate widely outside specific communities. This trajectory underscores the challenges faced by many influencers who strive to transcend niche audiences and achieve broader celebrity status. As platforms evolve, so too do the pathways toward recognition, making it essential for influencers to diversify their presence and appeal beyond singular viral hits.
Redefining Celebrity Status
As the landscape of fame transforms, podcasts like "Who? Weekly" play a pivotal role in dissecting and redefining what constitutes celebrity today. Hosts Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber analyze emerging trends among influencers and traditional entertainers alike, offering insights into who truly qualifies as famous. Their work illuminates evolving definitions of celebrityhood amidst rapid technological advancements and changing audience preferences.
Finger and Weber's discussions reflect deeper societal shifts regarding fame and influence. They highlight cases such as actor Jason Isaacs and former reality TV contestant Yaya DaCosta, whose recent interactions with popular culture spark renewed interest but fall short of achieving widespread acclaim. Through their analyses, they underscore how influencers now rival actors and musicians in terms of reach and impact. Yet, distinguishing between transient fame and lasting celebrity remains challenging. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding nuanced differences between those striving for recognition ("whos") and those already entrenched within celebrity circles ("thems"). By exploring these distinctions, listeners gain valuable perspectives on contemporary celebrity culture and its ever-changing nature.