The internet has a knack for making stars out of the most unlikely people (and sometimes, animals). 2025 was no exception—this year introduced the world to a new crop of viral sensations whose stories are as surprising as they are inspiring. Wondering what happened after the memes faded and the likes poured in? Here’s a look at the top 10 unexpected internet celebrities of 2025—plus where they are now.
1. The Grocery Store Dance Grandad (Walter “Wally” Evans)
Then: Wally’s impromptu dance to a classic disco hit, caught by his grandson on aisle 7, had everyone grooving.
Now: Wally’s “Senior Shuffle” classes are a nationwide hit, and he’s become the face of an active-aging campaign.
2. The Cat Lawyer (Felix the Tabby)
Then: When a lawyer accidentally joined a Zoom hearing with a cat filter, his actual pet became the unwitting meme star.
Now: Felix’s Instagram boasts over 2 million followers, and he “publishes” weekly legal advice (with help from his owner).
3. The Bubble Tea Barista (Jules Nguyen)
Then: Jules’ mesmerizing boba-making videos were everywhere, thanks to their hypnotic “boba drop” slow-mos.
Now: Jules opened a boutique bubble tea shop in LA and was featured on a Netflix docuseries about food trends.
4. The Unexpected Poet (Samira Patel)
Then: A thread of Samira’s quirky, heartfelt poems for strangers on the subway stole Twitter’s heart.
Now: She’s published her first poetry collection and hosts virtual “poetry parties” with fans around the globe.
5. The Sleepwalking Chef (Liam O’Donnell)
Then: Viral TikToks of Liam cooking elaborate midnight snacks in his sleep had viewers both amused and concerned.
Now: Liam leveraged his fame into a cookbook (“Dream Dishes”) and speaks out for sleep disorder awareness.
6. The Dog Who Paints (Buttons the Beagle)
Then: Buttons’ abstract paw-print paintings sold out within minutes after his owner posted a time-lapse video.
Now: Buttons’ art raises money for animal shelters, and he “opened” a canine art gallery (yes, really).
7. The Ramen Reviewer (Danny “Slurp” Chen)
Then: Danny’s over-the-top, ASMR-style ramen tastings became a comfort-watch for millions.
Now: He’s traveled to Japan for a ramen pilgrimage, signed a deal for a travel-food show, and launched his own noodle brand.
8. The DIY Fashion Teen (Maya Gomez)
Then: Maya’s upcycled runway looks, made from thrifted curtains and tablecloths, inspired the #TrashToTrend movement.
Now: Her designs were featured at Fashion Week, and she’s planning a sustainable fashion line.
9. The Accidental Meteorologist (Tommy Brooks, Age 7)
Then: Tommy’s adorable, unscripted weather “reports” on his family’s porch became a daily highlight online.
Now: He’s a junior ambassador for a climate education nonprofit and landed a guest spot on national morning TV.
10. The Viral Busker (Lola Santiago)
Then: A passerby’s video of Lola’s soulful rendition of a classic ballad in a subway station caught the world’s attention.
Now: Lola released her debut EP, opened for a major artist on tour, and continues to perform at pop-up gigs worldwide.
Final Thoughts
2025 proved, yet again, that anyone can become a star in the digital age—from dancing grandads to sleepwalking chefs. Their stories remind us that the internet is as unpredictable as it is inspiring. Who knows who’ll be next?
