In a milestone moment for digital media, the inaugural U.S. TikTok Awards took center stage in Hollywood on December 18, 2025, marking a new era in the celebration of content creation and online influence. Held at the historic Hollywood Palladium, the event brought together an eclectic mix of stars, creators, and fans to honor the most influential figures on the short-form video platform. The awards ceremony signaled TikTok’s growing integration into mainstream culture and its role in reshaping the entertainment landscape.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of food critic and influencer Keith Lee, who received the coveted title of Creator of the Year. Known for his down-to-earth reviews and heartfelt storytelling, Lee has gained a massive following by spotlighting family-owned restaurants and small businesses across the United States. His content, often filmed in his car or kitchen with minimal production, stands in stark contrast to the polished aesthetic of many online influencers. It is precisely this authenticity that has endeared him to millions of viewers and earned him the platform’s top honor.
In his acceptance speech, Lee reflected on his unexpected journey from being a mixed martial artist to becoming a social media sensation. He thanked his supporters for helping him elevate underrepresented voices and local establishments, often turning struggling eateries into overnight sensations. Lee emphasized the power of digital platforms to influence real-world change, not just trends, and dedicated his award to small business owners across the country.
Lee’s win is emblematic of a broader shift in the creator economy, where relatability and community impact are increasingly valued over sheer popularity. His videos frequently feature honest, constructive critiques of food and service, often resulting in measurable boosts in foot traffic for the businesses he covers. In a social media landscape dominated by flash and spectacle, Lee’s grounded approach has set him apart as a force for good and a champion of everyday people.
The evening also celebrated a range of other standout creators. Bretman Rock, a longtime internet personality known for his humor and style, won Video of the Year. The winning video, which fused comedy with a strong cultural message, resonated widely and exemplified the kind of content that can be both entertaining and meaningful. Bretman, who has consistently used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and cultural pride, received loud applause as he took the stage.
Paris Hilton was honored as Muse of the Year, a title that reflects her enduring influence on fashion and digital aesthetics. Hilton, once a reality television icon and tabloid fixture, has experienced a cultural renaissance in the age of social media, seamlessly adapting to newer platforms and audiences. Her award highlights the growing crossover between legacy celebrities and modern digital creators, as TikTok becomes a central hub for celebrity branding and reinvention.
Another notable honoree was Jeremiah Brown, a rising star who was recognized for his rapid ascent on the platform after appearing on Love Island USA. Brown’s content blends humor, fitness, and lifestyle advice, appealing to a younger audience that increasingly looks to TikTok for both entertainment and personal development. His Rising Star of the Year award underscored TikTok’s role in launching new talent into the spotlight.
The For Good award was presented to twin brothers Zach and Pat Valentine, creators who focus on promoting inclusion and disability awareness. Their heartfelt content, which often showcases their lives as individuals with Down syndrome, has helped break down stereotypes and foster understanding within the TikTok community. Their recognition served as a reminder that the platform is not only a place for fun and entertainment, but also for advocacy and social progress.
The ceremony itself was a high-energy affair, hosted by actress and entrepreneur La La Anthony. The event featured a lineup of presenters that included fashion designer Tan France, drag performer Trixie Mattel, and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, among others. The diverse array of presenters reflected the wide-reaching influence of TikTok across various cultural sectors.
A major highlight of the night was a live performance by Grammy-winning artist Ciara, who delivered a dynamic set that combined her biggest hits with new music. Her performance energized the audience and emphasized the symbiotic relationship between music and TikTok, where songs often gain popularity through viral challenges and user-generated content.
This first edition of the U.S. TikTok Awards follows similar events hosted in other countries and comes at a pivotal time for the platform. As TikTok continues to face scrutiny in Washington over data privacy and national security concerns, the company has taken steps to demonstrate transparency and commitment to the U.S. market. The awards ceremony, while celebratory in nature, also served to reinforce the platform’s cultural legitimacy and its connection to the American public.
Ultimately, the 2025 TikTok Awards celebrated more than just viral videos. It honored the people behind the screens — storytellers, advocates, entertainers, and entrepreneurs — who are shaping modern culture through digital innovation. For creators like Keith Lee, the evening marked a personal and professional triumph, validating the impact of authenticity and community-driven content in an era defined by rapid technological change. As TikTok continues to evolve, events like this suggest that the line between internet fame and mainstream influence is not only blurring but disappearing altogether.