TikTok has transformed from a haven for Gen Z trends into a global phenomenon—and now, a mainstay for celebrities. No longer satisfied with traditional social media, some of the biggest names in the entertainment and sports industries have embraced TikTok to redefine their digital presence. With short, snappy videos that combine authenticity with creativity, celebrities have found ways to captivate millions while setting trends millions more emulate.

But what’s their secret? How are these stars leveraging TikTok to dominate the platform and grow their following virtually overnight? From behind-the-scenes glimpses to collaborating with creators, celebrities are treating TikTok like a playground where they connect with fans on a whole new level.

For everyday creators, there are plenty of lessons to learn by analyzing what works for these high-profile users.

The Celebrity TikTok Formula

Celebrities aren’t thriving on TikTok just because they’re famous. They’ve cracked a formula that depends on creativity, relatability, and leveraging the platform’s unique features. In fact, many industry experts have outlined how a creator-led approach, especially on TikTok, is fueling fresh engagement strategies for both brands and celebrities alike. For deeper insights, see this Forbes article on creator-led ad strategies for TikTok.

Here are the key strategies they use to build audiences and rack up millions of likes.

Authentic, Behind-the-Scenes Content

Fans crave a glimpse into the everyday lives of their favorite stars. Celebrities who post unfiltered, behind-the-scenes content immediately feel more relatable and approachable. Whether it's a peek into their travel routines, downtime on movie sets, or candid moments at home, these videos resonate because they feel genuine.

Participating in Viral Challenges

TikTok thrives on trends, and celebrities often jump in to keep their content fresh and relevant. From dance challenges to lip-sync battles, participating in viral moments shows celebrities as in-the-know and ready to engage with their fans in a playful way.

Collaborating with TikTok Creators

By teaming up with popular TikTok creators, celebrities tap into an established audience while adding an extra layer of creativity to their content. These partnerships often feel organic and help bridge the gap between traditional fame and TikTok stardom.

Leveraging Trending Sounds and Memes

The power of a trending sound is unparalleled on TikTok. Celebrities who tap into these viral audio clips make their content discoverable by millions of users browsing those specific sounds. Integrating memes further boosts their relatability and positions them at the forefront of trends.

5–7 Celebrities Who Went Viral

To understand the impact of these strategies, look no further than these iconic examples of celebrity TikTokers who’ve gone viral overnight.

Will Smith

Known for his high-energy skits and cinematic production quality, Will Smith has turned TikTok into his personal behind-the-scenes studio. One of his standout videos includes a jaw-dropping illusion where he “jumps” into his artwork—seamlessly combining humor and visual effects that leave his audience amazed.

Jason Derulo

Jason Derulo has redefined his image on TikTok with a mix of music, choreography, and even creative food content. His viral “Whatcha Say” challenge and larger-than-life storytelling have made him a central figure on the app.

Lizzo

Lizzo’s TikToks are a masterclass in authenticity. Her body-positive content, hilarious antics, and music snippets keep her audience hooked. One viral video that featured her playing the flute while twerking perfectly combined her talent and humor, racking up millions of views.

Kylie Jenner

From showcasing her family life to dropping quick lifestyle videos, Kylie Jenner has mastered the art of relatable luxury. A TikTok clip where she shared her morning routine became an instant hit, proving that sometimes simplicity is key.

Bella Poarch

Bella Poarch became famous on TikTok for her precision lip-sync performances, such as her viral rendition to the beat of “M to the B.” Her videos are polished yet fun, offering a mix of whimsical edits and sharp movements that captivate audiences.

The Rock

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson combines his signature humor with fitness tips and glimpses into his Hollywood life. Whether he’s sharing cheat-day meals or playful moments with his daughters, his TikToks are equal parts approachable and inspiring.

Why Fans Can’t Get Enough

What makes celebrity TikToks so irresistible?

They Feel “Real” and Approachable

Traditional media often portrays celebrities as untouchable, but TikTok’s organic content lets fans see a more grounded, authentic side of their favorite stars. This genuine connection is a major factor in why both celebrities—and everyday users—can rapidly gain followings and even go viral, as explored in this Business Insider feature on overnight internet sensations.

Bite-Sized Content Is Easy to Share

Short, engaging videos lend themselves to being widely shared across audiences. Once a video gains traction, its viral potential multiplies as fans showcase it on other social platforms.

They Set Trends

Celebrities aren’t just following trends—they’re creating them. Their participation in challenges or use of new sounds can ignite trends that ripple globally.

What Everyday Creators Can Learn

The strategies celebrities use on TikTok aren’t exclusive to Hollywood elites. Everyday creators can adopt and tailor these approaches to their own content to achieve success.

1. Embrace Authenticity

Be real and relatable in your videos. Candid, unpolished moments often resonate more deeply than overly staged content.

2. Hop on Trends Early

Monitor TikTok’s trending page and act fast when you see a sound or challenge taking off. Early participation can boost the visibility of your content.

3. Engage With Followers

Respond to comments, start conversations, and encourage engagement. Building a community around your content makes your audience more likely to return.

4. Invest in Visibility

Even the best content can get lost in TikTok’s crowded feed. Many rising TikTokers use Instant Famous to boost your TikTok visibility to get their videos in front of the right audience faster, ensuring their content doesn’t get lost in the algorithm.

Conclusion

Celebrities have mastered TikTok because they understand how to balance creativity, relatability, and trends. Their ability to adapt to this dynamic platform has reshaped TikTok culture while continuing to influence mainstream media.

For everyday creators, the key takeaway is clear: focus on authenticity, engage with your audience, and leverage the same tools and strategies to amplify your reach. The blueprint to TikTok success is accessible—now it’s your turn to start creating. TikTok fame might just be one video away.