The Remarkable Rise of Brooke Monk: From Homeschooler to Social Media Sensation

Brooke Monk’s journey from a homeschooled teenager in Colorado to a multi-millionaire social media influencer is nothing short of astonishing. Bursting onto the TikTok scene in 2019, Monk quickly garnered a massive following, captivating audiences with her comedic skits, relatable content, and vibrant personality. As of June 2024, she boasts nearly 33 million followers on her main TikTok account, along with significant followings on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Snapchat. With her unique brand of content and strong engagement rates, Monk has firmly established herself among the top creators in the digital landscape, earning her a spot on Forbes’ “Top Creators” list in 2023.

Contrary to popular belief, Monk’s roots are in Colorado, not Jacksonville, Florida, as often misreported. Growing up in a conservative family as the second of five sisters, her childhood was shaped by homeschooling. This unique upbringing instilled in her both a strong sense of identity and a longing for connection. With limited social interaction outside her family, Monk turned to TikTok as a creative outlet. “I was homeschooled, so I didn’t have anyone to talk to,” she explained in an interview. It was through TikTok that she found a way to express herself and connect with others, bridging the gap between her sheltered upbringing and the vibrant world of social media.

Monk did not initially aspire to be a professional influencer; her TikTok journey began as a way to cope with feelings of isolation. Her first viral video, a comedic take on how girls react to crushes, exploded with four million views in just one day. This unexpected success marked a turning point in her life. “I was planning on going to college straight out of high school,” she shared. However, as her follower count soared, so did her opportunities. Within months, she was building a brand rather than pursuing traditional education, leveraging her natural charisma and comedic timing to cultivate a loyal audience.

The transition to fame was swift for Monk. By the time she reached the legal drinking age, she had established herself as one of TikTok’s top creators, amassing billions of likes on her videos. Despite the rapid ascent, Monk has managed to maintain a positive image, steering clear of major controversies that often plague influencers. Some criticism has surfaced regarding her Christian values, particularly in relation to her fashion choices and a swimwear collaboration. Nevertheless, she has continued to engage her audience with humor and authenticity.

A significant aspect of Monk’s personal life has been her long-term relationship with fellow creator Sam Dezz. Their romance began in 2020, and the pair have become a staple of Monk’s content, frequently appearing together on YouTube and other platforms. The dynamics of their relationship, filled with youthful exuberance and genuine affection, resonate with their audience, further enhancing their brand as a couple.

Monk’s content spans various genres, from comedic skits and lip-syncing to makeup tutorials and couple-centric videos. Her ability to adapt her style while staying true to her comedic roots has been a key factor in her sustained popularity. In addition to her digital content, Monk has ventured into merchandise, launching several lines that reflect her brand’s ethos of authenticity. Her early designs featured slogans meant to inspire her followers, such as “authentic” with a playful twist.

Although her merchandise has experienced ups and downs, Monk’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident. She continues to explore avenues for monetization, including collaborations with well-known brands like Hyundai and Amazon Prime Video, and running an affiliate storefront on Amazon. This diversified approach not only boosts her income but also deepens her engagement with her audience.

In April 2022, Monk briefly joined the Hype House, a collective of influencers known for their collaborative content. However, her tenure was short-lived, lasting only a month and a half. Monk cited creative differences as the reason for her departure, emphasizing her desire to stay true to her personal brand. This decision reflects her maturity as a creator; rather than seeking exposure at any cost, Monk prioritizes alignment with her vision.

Brooke Monk’s financial success is impressive, with Forbes estimating her earnings at $2 million in 2022, propelled by high engagement and diverse income streams. Her success is not just a flash in the pan; Monk’s strategic approach to content creation and branding has set her apart. She maintains a rigorous work schedule, treating her influencer career like a business. “I will film as many takes as needed to make the video perfect. I’m neurotic about it,” she admits. This dedication to quality ensures that her content resonates with viewers, further solidifying her standing as a top creator.

 

At just 21 years old, Monk has already achieved remarkable milestones, but she has bigger ambitions. Her LinkedIn profile reveals her aspirations to grow her audience further, expand into traditional media, and launch her own beauty brand. With her established presence in the beauty space—thanks to makeup tutorials and product endorsements—Monk is well-positioned to transition into this new venture. By signing with William Morris Endeavor Entertainment (WME), she aims to explore opportunities across film, television, and podcasts, signaling her desire to diversify her career beyond social media.