Theo Shakes: From Drama Kid to VIRAL Sensation with 2 Million Followers
Episode Description
Theo Shakes is an insanely talented 23-year-old New Zealand-based actor, writer, director, and content creator who is living proof of what happens when some natural talent meets a lot of hard work.
Theo has 2 million TikTok followers and over 200 million likes. But I feel like it would be unfair to just call him a TikTokker (not that there is anything wrong with that!) But there is so much more to this guy…and this is a small part of the Theo Shakes story
+ His recollections of moving from the UK to NZ at 4
+ His creative process with writing, filming and releasing a new TikTok every 2 days
+ Making a movie with Elijah Wood
+ Getting love from Will Smith on TikTok,
+ How he makes money on TikTok and much more.
At the time of releasing this, Theo is about to do his debut comedy show in Auckland called "Judging by the Look of Things." Here is the link info for tickets and times: https://nz.patronbase.com/_QTheatre4/Productions/C545/Performances
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**The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the host and guests and may not reflect the views of the show sponsors**
Chapters: 00:00 Who is Theo Shakes? 18:10 Family Background and Influences 29:59 Reflections on TikTok and Early Success 42:54 Recognition and the Balance of Fame 57:26 The Art of Content Creation: Behind the Scenes 01:10:57 Cultural Roots and Identity 01:19:09 Career Aspirations and Experiences 01:30:46 Reflections on Emotions and Growth
Brief Summary
Theo Shakes discusses his TikTok success, upcoming stand-up show, and navigating fame while maintaining creativity and personal boundaries.
Key points
- Stand-Up Comedy Debut. Theo announces his debut stand-up comedy show, exploring his creative voice.
- Elijah Wood Encounter. Theo shares his memorable experience working with Elijah Wood.
- The Journey to Drama School. The excitement and support from parents when pursuing acting as a career.
- The Tall Poppy Syndrome. Discussing the cultural phenomenon of tall poppy syndrome in New Zealand.
- First Recognition by a Fan. A memorable moment when the speaker was recognized by a fan at a McDonald's.
- Will Smith's Impact. The speaker discusses the cultural implications of Will Smith's slap at the Oscars.
Ask about Dom Harvey
Episode highlights
- Stand-Up Comedy DebutTheo announces his debut stand-up comedy show, exploring his creative voice.“It's going to be visceral.”5:15May 10, 2025
- Elijah Wood EncounterTheo shares his memorable experience working with Elijah Wood.“Fame's a funny thing.”10:50May 10, 2025
- The Journey to Drama SchoolThe excitement and support from parents when pursuing acting as a career.“They were completely on board and they’re excited.”21:11May 10, 2025
- The Tall Poppy SyndromeDiscussing the cultural phenomenon of tall poppy syndrome in New Zealand.“It’s a big problem in New Zealand.”29:30May 10, 2025
- First Recognition by a FanA memorable moment when the speaker was recognized by a fan at a McDonald's.“I was sat there eating dinner and then a guy came on and knocked on the glass.”40:51May 10, 2025
- Will Smith's ImpactThe speaker discusses the cultural implications of Will Smith's slap at the Oscars.“It’s like a slap and assault live on TV still divided the internet.”49:56May 10, 2025
- The Work Behind TikTok ClipsFilming TikTok clips can take anywhere from one to forty takes, depending on the day.“If it just feels right, it’s like one or two takes.”53:51May 10, 2025
- Navigating Fame and PrivacyFame brings challenges like losing privacy and being cautious about public perception.“Just ending up losing privacy or something.”1:08:36May 10, 2025
