It's Not All Sunshine And Rainbows: The Downside Of Tik Tok Popularity

Nowadays, if you don’t know anything about Tik Tok, you clearly aren’t paying much attention.

Tik Tok is Gen Z’s favourite social media that has become so prevalent, people of all ages are addicted to the app. However, like every other content streaming and social media app, it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, and many parents are aware of this. The wrong side of these apps, including Tik Tok, is often discussed, but the younger generation loves the app despite them. With over 1 billion monthly active users and 47% of users between the ages of 10 and 29, it’s not hard to see its popularity from the outside.

However, Tik Tok and its success have infiltrated the entertainment industry. With Tik Tok influencers becoming more mainstream, they are taking over our advertising. Not only can this damage the industry, but for budding models and actors, it can be harmful to their expectations.

Tik Tok influencers are creating an expectation for young kids, especially those with a talent agent, that it is as easy as a viral video to take charge of the whole industry. But unfortunately, this expectation is not the reality. Success or virality on Tik Tok doesn’t always translate to success in the industry. It is rare, and even when this is the case, these influencers often deal with the unregulated and unpaid side of the industry, which can be dangerous in the worst case and unpleasant in the best case.

Many parents choose to get an agent for their child who is interested in the industry because agencies are regulated. A considerable part of their jobs is ensuring that clients and brands follow regulations, keeping the children safe and paying them the right amount. This way, even those who don’t have much knowledge about the industry aren’t taken advantage of, underpaid or put into dangerous situations.

When considering the children’s entertainment industry, we are dealing with the smallest, cutest and most vulnerable actors and models. So, it is so vital that we continue to keep them safe. However, when they are old enough to understand Tik Tok, it is essential that they know the reality of Tik Tok’s popularity. Also, the dangers that perpetrating influencer culture as an easy, full-ride into success in the entertainment industry can have. It is doubtful that a brand or client will see your Tik Tok videos and create a whole campaign or role around you. Brands don’t scroll through Tik Tok looking for talent; they go to agents.

For years technology has been a prominent part of our everyday lives, and the same goes for social media and content streaming apps. So, just as we all know and understand the dangers of technology when it comes to kids, every parent and child needs to understand the reality and risks of Tik Tok. Including those that can come with pursuing the industry through an app such as Tik Tok or even Instagram.

If your child is looking to be a part of the industry or already is, ensure they are aware of the industry’s realities and dangers.