10 Former YouTubers and Influencers Making It in Film

The world of entertainment has shifted, with digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok becoming launchpads for talent. A new generation of creators is making the leap from short online videos to starring roles in major films, bringing their built-in audiences and unique energy to Hollywood.

These former influencers and YouTubers have traded vlogs and skits for scripts and sets, proving their charisma translates beyond the internet. Here are 10 standout performers who’ve successfully transitioned to acting in movies, showcasing their skills in diverse roles across genres.

Joe Sugg

Joe Sugg, once known as ThatcherJoe on YouTube, built a massive following with his comedic vlogs. He took his charm to the big screen in ‘Joe and Caspar Hit the Road’ (2015), a comedy-documentary where he and Caspar Lee travel Europe with no money, tackling odd jobs.

Sugg’s natural humor and relatability made the film a hit with fans. He’s since appeared in ‘The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run’ (2020), voicing a character, and continues to balance acting with his online presence.

Liza Koshy

Liza Koshy’s infectious humor on Vine and YouTube, where she has over 17 million subscribers, led to roles in ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’ (2016) and ‘Work It’ (2020), a Netflix dance-comedy where she starred as a quirky choreographer.

Her comedic timing and vibrant energy shine in both film and TV, including hosting Nickelodeon’s ‘Double Dare’ (2018-2019). Koshy’s ability to connect with audiences keeps her in demand for mainstream projects.

Kian Lawley

Kian Lawley, known for his YouTube channel SuperKian13, stepped into horror with ‘The Chosen’ (2015), playing a lead role in a chilling supernatural tale. His fanbase from YouTube’s KianAndJC channel followed him to the big screen.

Lawley’s dramatic performance in ‘Before I Fall’ (2017) showed his range beyond pranks and vlogs. He’s since tackled roles in ‘Monster Party’ (2018), proving he’s serious about acting.

Flula Borg

German YouTuber Flula Borg, known for his AutoTune car covers and quirky vlogs, broke into film with ‘Pitch Perfect 2’ (2015) as Pieter, a rival singer. His comedic flair also landed him roles in ‘Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip’ (2015) and ‘Buddymoon’ (2016).

Borg’s unique accent and humor make him a standout in ensemble casts. He’s expanded into voice work, including ‘Ralph Breaks the Internet’ (2018), showing his versatility.

Cameron Dallas

Cameron Dallas rose to fame on Vine and YouTube with his charming persona, leading to his starring role in ‘Expelled’ (2014), a teen comedy produced by AwesomenessTV. He played a prankster navigating high school chaos.

Dallas also appeared in ‘The Outfield’ (2015), showcasing his ability to handle drama. His massive online following has helped him secure roles while he continues to grow as an actor.

Lilly Singh

Lilly Singh, aka Superwoman, built a YouTube empire with over 9 million subscribers before starring in ‘Dr. Cabbie’ (2014) and leading ‘A Trip to Unicorn Island’ (2016), a YouTube Red film about her world tour.

Her comedic skills and relatability shine in projects like ‘Bad Moms’ (2016). Singh’s transition to acting, including voice work in ‘The Bad Guys’ (2022), marks her as a multifaceted talent.

Ian Hecox

Ian Hecox, one half of the YouTube comedy duo Smosh, starred in ‘Smosh: The Movie’ (2015), a hit comedy where he and Anthony Padilla enter a virtual YouTube world to fix a video. The film resonated with their 22 million subscribers.

Hecox’s knack for slapstick and quick wit carried over to ‘Angry Birds’ (2016), where he voiced a character. He continues to blend acting with his online comedy empire.

Charli D’Amelio

Charli D’Amelio, a TikTok sensation with over 150 million followers, made her acting debut voicing Tinker in ‘StarDog and TurboCat’ (2019). She’s set to star in the upcoming ‘Home School’ (2026), a coming-of-age drama.

Her massive online presence and natural charm make her a draw for younger audiences. D’Amelio’s early roles suggest she’s ready to build a lasting acting career.

Addison Rae

Addison Rae, a TikTok star with nearly 90 million followers, jumped into acting with ‘He’s All That’ (2021), a gender-swapped remake of the teen classic. She also starred in the horror film ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023) and is slated for ‘Animal Friends’ (2025) with Ryan Reynolds.

Rae’s ability to handle both comedy and horror shows her range. Her social media clout continues to open doors in Hollywood.

Eugene Lee Yang

Eugene Lee Yang, known for The Try Guys YouTube channel, has used his platform to explore queer storytelling, leading to roles in films like ‘Spring Bloom’ (2023). His directorial work on short films also showcases his creative vision.

Yang’s bold performances and focus on diverse narratives make him a standout. His upcoming projects aim to amplify LGBTQ+ voices in mainstream cinema.

Which of these stars’ movies are you excited to watch, or is there another influencer-turned-actor I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!