Social media babies are growing up: Where are they now?

In the age of the internet, viral fame can come overnight, transforming ordinary moments into global sensations. These individuals, once children, captured our hearts and screens with their genuine, humorous, and sometimes astonishing actions. Years later, we revisit these stars to discover where their unexpected fame has led them.

Here's a look at some of the most memorable social media kids, from their viral beginnings to where they are now.

1. Sammy Griner - Success Kid

Then: It all began with a single, determined fist pump by a little boy on the beach. Sammy Griner wasn't just any child; he was the "Success Kid," whose image became a symbol of determination and victory across the internet. This meme was not only a viral sensation but also an inspiration for countless memes that followed, embodying the spirit of overcoming challenges no matter the odds.

After: Years after his meme went viral, Sammy Griner has grown up, but the iconic image remains a significant part of meme culture. The Griner family has used the image's popularity for good causes, including raising funds for his father's kidney transplant. Today, Sammy's life is that of a typical teenager, but his legacy as the Success Kid continues to inspire and entertain.

Sam's story and his journey from meme to icon can be followed on his mother, Laney Griner's Facebook page, which captures the essence of how a simple photo turned into a global phenomenon. See Sam today on Instagram.

2. Ghyslain Raza - Star Wars Kid

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Then: Ghyslain Raza unwittingly became a global phenomenon as the "Star Wars Kid" after a video of him wielding a golf ball retriever as a lightsaber went viral. What started as a private moment of imagination and fun turned into one of the earliest examples of viral fame. Despite the unintended consequences and challenges that came with his sudden fame, Raza's video remains a pivotal moment in internet culture, symbolizing the widespread reach of digital content.

After: Following the challenges of sudden internet fame, Ghyslain Raza took a stand against cyberbullying and became an advocate for safer online environments. He has since focused on his education and career, striving to live a life defined by more than just a viral moment. Raza's journey from a viral sensation to an advocate highlights the complex relationship between internet fame and personal identity. Learn more about Star Wars Kid's story. 

3. Maggie Goldenberger - Ermahgerd Girl

Then: The photo of Maggie Goldenberger, clutching Goosebumps books with an expression of sheer excitement, quickly spiraled into the "Ermahgerd" meme, encapsulating the joy and enthusiasm of childhood fandom. Her unique expression and the humorous twist on her excitement for the book series caught the internet's attention, making the image a staple of meme culture. This candid moment, captured during her childhood, remains one of the most recognizable memes, illustrating the randomness and humor of viral fame.

After: Maggie Goldenberger's "Ermahgerd" meme has cemented its place in internet history, but Maggie herself has moved far beyond her meme fame. Having embraced the humor and positivity of her viral moment, she now leads a life away from the spotlight, focusing on her career and personal endeavors. Goldenberger's story is a testament to the lasting impact of internet fame and the possibility of moving beyond it to lead a fulfilling life. Read about Ermahgerd Gir here.

4. Ava Ryan - "I Smell Like Beef" Kid

Then: Ava Ryan was only a toddler when a video of her declaring "I smell like beef" captured the hearts and laughs of millions online. Her innocent and earnest statement, made while looking out of a car window, became an instant catchphrase, embodying the unexpected and pure humor of children. Ava's video is a perfect snapshot of how a simple, candid moment can resonate with people everywhere, reminding us of the joy found in life's little moments.

After: Now older, Ava Ryan continues to charm the internet alongside her mother, Katie, who shares their humorous and relatable family moments online. Ava's "I smell like beef" statement remains a beloved meme from the good old days of Vine, and she has continued to embrace her role as a famous internet baby with grace and humor. Despite the widespread attention, the Ryan family has chosen to keep Ava's life relatively private, focusing on normal childhood experiences away from the limelight. Her mom still posts about her occasionally on their shared TikTok. Follow Ava Ryan's updates on Instagram.

5. Disaster Girl (Zoe Roth)

Zoe Roth became famously known as "Disaster Girl" due to a photo where she smirks in front of a burning house. Since the photo went viral in 2007, it has been edited into numerous disaster scenarios. Zoe's iconic look has been a part of internet culture for years, and she has expressed hopes of using her meme fame to support her education. Learn more about Disaster Girl's story here.

6. Mateo Beltran - "Listen Linda" Kid

Then: Mateo Beltran, affectionately known as the "Listen Linda" kid, captured the hearts of millions with his earnest and humorous negotiation with his mom over cupcakes. His ability to argue his case, punctuated by the respectful yet insistent use of his mom's first name, Linda, showcased the innocent logic and persuasive skills of a child. This memorable exchange not only went viral but also became a heartwarming reminder of the complexities and joys of parenting.

After: The viral moment has passed, but Mateo has continued to grow up with the same spirited personality that made him a star. While he and his family have embraced the fame with a positive outlook, they've also kept a level of privacy about their current lives. Mateo's "Listen Linda" video remains a beloved internet treasure, reflecting the timeless and universal experiences of childhood and family dynamics. Mateo's life now on Instagram.

7. Harry and Charlie Davies-Carr - Charlie Bit My Finger

Then: The simple yet endearing video of Harry and his baby brother Charlie, known as "Charlie Bit My Finger," quickly became one of the most viewed videos on YouTube. The brothers' interaction, highlighted by Charlie's bite and Harry's surprised yet forgiving response, captured an authentic slice of sibling life that resonated globally. Their unintentional fame serves as a testament to the internet's power to find and share moments of genuine human connection.

After: The Davies-Carr brothers have grown up away from the viral spotlight, with their family occasionally sharing updates on their lives post-fame. The video remains a piece of internet history, illustrating how quickly ordinary moments can become shared cultural experiences. The boys' journey from viral stars to young adults navigating a world that watched them grow up is a fascinating reflection on privacy, fame, and growing up in the digital age. Watch updates on the Davies-Carr brothers.

8. Alex Lee - Alex from Target

Then: Alex from Target became an overnight sensation after a candid photo of him bagging groceries went viral. His unsuspecting rise to fame underscored the randomness of internet celebrity and how ordinary individuals can suddenly find themselves under a global spotlight. The phenomenon highlighted the power of social media to elevate everyday moments into trending topics, sparking conversations about privacy, consent, and the nature of fame.

After: Alex Lee initially embraced his unexpected fame, using his platform to engage with fans and explore opportunities in modeling and social media. These days, he has opted to stay out of the spotlight, a move he told Ellen Degeneres about on her talk show. Read about Alex Lee's journey on Business Insider.

9. Noah Ritter - "Apparently" Kid

Then: Noah Ritter, dubbed the "Apparently" kid, won over the internet with his precocious and hilarious interview at a county fair. His repeated use of the word "apparently" and his candid take on the fair's attractions showcased the unpredictable and pure perspective of children. Noah's interview not only went viral but also reminded viewers of the joy and spontaneity of childhood, capturing a moment of innocence and humor that resonated widely.

After: Following his viral fame, Noah has made several television appearances, further endearing him to the public with his charismatic personality and unique perspective. His family has carefully managed his exposure to the spotlight, ensuring that he enjoys a balanced and grounded childhood. Follow Noah Ritter's adventures on Instagram.

10. Russell Horning - Backpack Kid

Then: Russell Horning, known as the Backpack Kid, burst onto the scene with his distinctive dance move, "the floss," which captivated audiences worldwide when he performed it on "Saturday Night Live" alongside Katy Perry. His stoic expression, combined with the unique, fast-paced swinging of his hips and arms, created a dance craze that swept across social media platforms. Horning's ability to create a viral dance phenomenon showcased the power of individual creativity in sparking global trends, making "the floss" a staple in dance challenges and social gatherings alike.

After: Since his rise to fame, Russell Horning has leveraged his internet celebrity to launch a music career, continuing to dance and entertain his followers across social media platforms. His commitment to his unique brand of entertainment demonstrates the potential for viral internet stars to evolve and maintain relevance in the fast-paced digital world. See Backpack Kid today on Instagram.

And the story continues for each of these remarkable individuals who, from a young age, experienced the whirlwind of internet fame. While their viral moments may have passed, they each continue to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of being a part of internet culture. From using their platforms for advocacy and education to pursuing creative passions to just being normal kids, these viral stars remind us of the power and unpredictability of the internet.

As we continue to witness new viral sensations every day, their stories serve as a reminder that behind every meme or trending topic is a real person with unique experiences and aspirations.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.