Brentwood Bay’s David Beck is a self-described full-time TikTok influencer.
Just a few years ago such a job title would not have been possible, but with the Chinese app’s surge in popularity, everyday people around the world are turning into internet sensations.
The extremely popular video-sharing app has also drawn controversy in the past few weeks, with U.S. President Donald Trump recently announcing plans to ban the app.
But for Beck, who was laid off from his job waiting tables in March, TikTok has given him a new beginning.
“I had a video that I put out on TikTok, which is super fun, and it ended up getting 80 million views,” says Beck before one of his shoots.”It’s pretty whack. I mean for something so terrible to turn into something like this, it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my life.”
After the first video of his balloon popping antics went viral, viewership soared. One video featuring Beck hitting frozen balloons garnered over 120 million views.
Needless to say, the past few months have been a wild journey.
“The fun thing is is that I’m you know able to you know make more then I was doing both jobs. I mean I’m just excited man, I’m just fired up on the adventure that it is so far,” beams Beck.
Beck’s set up is minimal, just a camera, tripod along with several water-filled balloons. The video itself lasts just seconds, but already Beck’s work for the day is done.
“It gave me a ton of followers, which is super sick, and you know a huge reason why I’ve been able to monetize,” says Beck.
All that remains is melting ice, and an eager fan base of 3.1 million followers waiting for his next 20-second balloon filled odyssey.
Beck says it’s all about having fun.
“I think the most important thing is just to do what makes you happy, go after that, and honestly you got that one life you gotta make the most out of it and you gotta fully send it,” quips Beck.
Beck posts regularly on his TikTok account, @davidbeck05.
Cole Sorenson
