How to Bet on YouTube Stars: Who Will Go Mainstream?

YouTube has become a launchpad for internet stars looking to break into the mainstream. With over 2.4 billion monthly users, the platform offers huge exposure and the chance for creators to build massive followings. For viewers, guessing which stars will successfully cross over into traditional media can be an entertaining pastime. Here are some tips on how to spot the YouTubers most likely to hit the big time.

Look for Unique, Relatable Personas

The YouTube stars who tend to gain the most traction in the mainstream are those with distinctive, relatable personalities. Their videos feel like hanging out with a friend. For example, Emma Chamberlain became hugely popular by being goofy, honest and candid in her vlogs. Fans feel like they really know the real Emma. Her quirky sense of humor makes her endlessly watchable. Other YouTubers like David Dobrik and the Try Guys have also leveraged their endearing personas to gain broader fame. When personalities feel authentic, fans connect on a deeper level.

Consistent Posting Shows Commitment

To make it in the mainstream, YouTubers need to demonstrate consistency and commitment to their channels. Those who post videos on a regular schedule show fans they are dedicated to creating content long-term. For instance, James Charles built a massive beauty following by sticking to a steady upload schedule. Fans know when to expect new videos. Regularity also helps channels rank better in YouTube’s algorithm. YouTubers who take frequent breaks risk losing momentum. So frequent, dependable posting is a green flag for breakout potential.

Cross-Platform Growth Expands Reach

YouTube fame alone doesn’t guarantee mainstream success. Savvy creators branch out to other platforms like Instagram, TikTok and X to expand their audiences. For example, Emma Chamberlain grew her fame by also engaging fans daily on Instagram. The Try Guys expanded from YouTube to their own podcast and TV shows. Cross-platform outreach lets creators connect with fans in more ways, increasing their exposure. When YouTubers grow thriving follower bases across several platforms, it signals they may have the marketing power to go mainstream.

GRWM and Vlog Formats Show Versatility

Certain video formats showcase a YouTuber’s charisma and versatility especially well. For instance, GRWM (get ready with me) videos that follow creators doing their hair and makeup have become hugely popular. They’re engaging to watch, especially when creators chat candidly with fans. Vlogs that document a creator’s daily life can also build deep parasocial connections. Emma Chamberlain, David Dobrik and other big names first went viral through highly personal vlogs that made fans feel like part of their lives. YouTubers skilled at vlogging or GRWM have access to versatile formats that help boost their mainstream appeal.

Philanthropy and Advocacy Win Hearts

Giving back endears creators to fans and boosts their fame. MrBeast has made a name for himself by donating proceeds to good causes and organizing elaborate philanthropic stunts. Other YouTubers who advocate for social causes or raise money for charity establish themselves as caring public figures. When creators focus on more than just entertaining, they come across as genuine role models. Their activism and goodwill can propel them into mainstream conversations. Philanthropy is a key indicator that a YouTuber cares about making a true difference.

Seek Out Trend-Setting Content

YouTubers who latch onto hot trends early often ride the wave to mainstream notoriety. For example, Emma Chamberlain boosted her fame by posting content about VSCO girls before most people knew what they were. Her trend-spotting instincts keep her ahead of the curve. YouTubers talented at reacting quickly to rising trends signal their ability to stay relevant in the mainstream. Keep an eye out for creators who repeatedly set new trends instead of just following them.

Production Polish Suggests Broad Appeal

YouTube channels with high production quality tend to have the most breakout potential. Sharp editing, excellent camerawork, and appealing graphics signal a creator’s ability to compete with mainstream media. For instance, James Charles’ beauty videos are as slickly produced as many TV programs. Solid production values telegraph that a YouTuber’s content could successfully cross over. When channels look more professional than amateur, they show mainstream polish.

Guessing which YouTubers will hit the big time is an uncertain art. But creators with distinctive personalities, broad social reach, trendsetting content and production polish demonstrate important hallmarks of mainstream viability. By spotting these traits early, you can bet on rising stars before they become household names. With YouTube’s prominence continuing to grow, more internet creators are likely to follow in the footsteps of mainstream trailblazers like Emma Chamberlain, David Dobrik and MrBeast.