In the ever-evolving world of social media, stars are born overnight, and Addison Rae Easterling was one such sensation who captivated millions. The 23-year-old former TikTok queen, who once boasted over 88 million followers, didn’t just stumble into fame; she was discovered by none other than the legendary Mariah Carey. Yes, you read that right—Mariah Carey!
Addison’s journey to stardom began with her infectious dancing videos, often featuring her mom, Sheri. These videos catapulted her into the spotlight, and her involvement with the famed Hype House only amplified her reach. But it was a TikTok set to Mariah Carey’s hit “Obsessed” that truly changed everything. When Mariah herself liked the video, it sent Addison’s popularity skyrocketing, solidifying her status as a viral sensation.
Leaving behind her college life at Louisiana State University, Addison made the bold move to Los Angeles in late 2019, with her family’s full support. Her dad’s words of encouragement were a pivotal moment: “You know what, whatever. If you really believe that you’re going to do this and you’re going to make it work and you have a plan, do it. I believe in you, I trust you.” This family relocation marked the beginning of Addison’s unstoppable rise.
Rumors swirled around Addison’s personal life, including a possible rekindling of her romance with Bryce Hall, a member of the Sway House. While Bryce denied dating Addison, their frequent online flirting suggested otherwise. Adding to the intrigue, Addison was rumored to have bailed Bryce out of jail after his May 2020 drug possession arrest—a claim neither has denied.
Despite the drama, Addison’s professional life flourished. She created viral content with the Hype House and maintained close friendships with TikTok royalty like Dixie D’Amelio. Even a public spat over old, unflattering comments about Charli D’Amelio couldn’t tarnish their bond, proving Addison’s resilience and charm.
Addison’s ambitions extended far beyond TikTok. She stepped into the world of podcasting with her mom, Sheri, on their show “Mama Knows Best,” offering fans an intimate look at their lives and relationship. But Addison’s ultimate dream was to conquer Hollywood. “I’m pushing to get into acting really hard right now,” she revealed, expressing her desire to join the cast of “Stranger Things.”
However, Addison’s star power on TikTok has dimmed in recent years. While she remains a significant presence, the platform’s evolving algorithm no longer pushes her content as universally as it once did. Addison wisely pivoted towards acting, appearing in Eric Roth’s “Thanksgiving” in 2023 and co-starring with Ryan Reynolds in the upcoming “Animal Friends,” set for release in 2024.
Despite the shift in her TikTok prominence, Addison still captivates her audience with personal updates and glimpses into her life. She continues to leverage her platform for brand partnerships and endorsements, ensuring her influence remains strong. Her content now reflects a more personal touch, moving away from the dance trends that initially made her famous.
Addison appears to be thriving in Los Angeles, living a life that many influencers aspire to. While she may no longer be the reigning queen of TikTok, Addison Rae’s journey from a viral sensation discovered by Mariah Carey to a budding Hollywood actress is far from over. Her adaptability and drive suggest that her best days are yet to come, whether on the big screen or through new ventures that continue to capture the public’s imagination.