Addison Rae, born and raised in Louisiana, began showcasing her talent at an early age through competitive dancing. Starting at just six years old, she traveled across the country for dance competitions, which laid the foundation for her future in the entertainment industry. Initially pursuing media broadcasting at Louisiana State University, Addison shifted her focus to TikTok in 2019 after her dance videos went viral. By January 2020, her popularity had skyrocketed, leading her to sign with the WME talent agency.
In 2020, Addison was earning approximately $2 million annually through brand partnerships on TikTok and YouTube. With 88.6 million followers on TikTok, her influence only grew as she partnered with high-profile brands such as YSL Beauty. Addison’s ability to captivate audiences online translated into lucrative endorsement deals, which now include earning $142,031 per TikTok video and $156,000 per Instagram post, according to industry estimates.
Addison’s journey to Hollywood began with the release of her debut single “Obsessed” in 2021. Although the song faced criticism, she pushed forward and starred in He’s All That, a remake of the classic 90s film She’s All That. While the movie received mixed to negative reviews, Addison’s salary reportedly ranged in the low six-figure range. Later that year, she secured a multimillion-dollar Netflix deal to act in and executive-produce various projects, signaling a significant boost in her Hollywood career and earnings.
Addison Rae (@addisonraee/Instagram)Addison demonstrated her versatility in 2023 by starring in the slasher film Thanksgiving. This marked a departure from her earlier lighthearted roles, earning her critical praise for her performance. The film was well-received, with critics lauding it for blending humor and gore reminiscent of 90s horror films. Her pivot to more serious roles demonstrated her ability to evolve beyond her TikTok roots, solidifying her as a credible actress.
Addison returned to the music industry in 2024 with the release of her single “Diet Pepsi,” which garnered widespread acclaim. Drawing comparisons to Britney Spears and Lana Del Rey, the track quickly gained traction, with 3.05 million streams in its first week and over 40 million streams in its first month. The song’s success solidified her place in the music industry, further amplified by collaborations with artists like Charli XCX and live performances during high-profile tours.
What sets Addison apart is her ability to rebrand herself. From being perceived as “just a TikToker,” she has transformed into a respected artist and entertainer through strategic marketing. Her deliberate pivot to music and film, combined with viral promotional tactics, has turned public perception in her favor. This rebrand is often cited as one of the most effective in modern social media history.
Addison Rae’s diversified career has significantly boosted her net worth, which is now estimated at $25 million. She earns substantial sums from social media posts and brand endorsements, with $65,200 per sponsored Instagram post. Her success in music, acting, and online content creation makes her one of the wealthiest influencers to emerge from TikTok.
From her early days as a viral TikTok sensation to becoming a multi-faceted entertainer, Addison Rae exemplifies the power of adaptability and strategic branding in the digital age. Whether in music, acting, or influencing, Addison’s trajectory continues to inspire millions, proving that social media stardom can be a launchpad for a diversified and enduring career.
