Like so many of today’s rising stars, Avi Angel got his start on YouTube and Tik Tok, albeit with a little help from his middle sibling status – having actor Asher Angel as your brother, and social media sensation, London Bleu as your sister, might just get you noticed.
Having amassed thousands of subscribers to his platforms, he’s now ascending from internet notoriety to every other opportunity that comes his way, most notably modelling and acting. Here he talks to us about the power of positivity, his dream movie role and his fashion picks.
When did you set your sights on becoming a YouTube and Tik Tok superstar?
My brother inspired me, and people started to notice me when I appeared in his content. I started to gain my community as I grew older, and from that point on, I’ve been focusing on my socials.
Imagine someone has never heard of you, how would you describe yourself to them and the output on your social platforms?
I’m a very positive person who tries to use my platform to inspire and motivate people. With Instagram, I mainly focus on my modelling. With Tiktok, it's dancing and other fun videos.
It’s changed your life really, social media, so what’s been the most significant change for you?
Trying to find genuine and authentic friends. I’ve noticed that it’s become a lot more challenging throughout my life to make real friends due to how much social media has changed.
Do you see TikTok as a place where you can spread positive messages? Is it where you can apply more bright ideas about how teens want the world to be?
Yes, 100%. Tiktok is a vast platform with so many teenagers who can learn many things. Spreading a positive message can significantly impact so many people.
What kind of emotions and experiences influence your content?
I think the content that I put out into the world is a reflection of how I’m feeling at a particular moment. The influences are a collection of my life and daily experiences.
Do you ever feel pressure to top your previous videos?
I wouldn’t use the word pressure. I try to put out good content and I want it to be seen and interacted with. It seems like the algorithm can be inconsistent but all I can control is the effort that I put in, so that’s what I focus on.
Can you tell me about your interests before making videos and how you feel about everything that’s happened since?
I’m just the 15-year-old boy next door. Before making videos, I liked football, baseball, basketball and having fun with my friends and family. I still like all of that, but it has been, and continues to be a crazy and fun ride. I’m very grateful for every opportunity that has come to me.
Like modelling, which you seem to enjoy, and you’re really into fashion. How would you describe your personal style?
It’s a lot of different styles. I love to mix stuff up and grab things and throw it on. I love vintage wear and streetwear. Fashion is a massive part of me. I love dressing up and looking stylish.
What brand would you say represents you perfectly?
Rhude, Palm Angels, Homme + Femme, *BeLer With Age* and Casablanca.
What’s the one piece of clothing you couldn’t live without?
I call myself a huge sneaker head as sneakers allow me to express my fashion and individuality. So, I would say shoes.
What about next moves, like acting? What would be a dream role for you?
One of my dream roles would be the main character in a horror film. Being able to express myself in a movie like that would be a super cool experience. I love horror films. I could watch one every night and day.
Whose movie career do you admire?
I admire Tom Holland; it looks like he works hard and has fun.
Ok, for all your admirers out there, let’s talk romance. Are you a romantic? What’s your perfect date night out / in?
Yes, I’m definitely a romantic at heart. The perfect date would start with a nice meal and then maybe a scary movie. We both can get scared and lean on each other for support. Then we could drive to the top of the mountain, lay out some blankets, and watch the stars. Doesn’t that sound like fun?
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Interview by Kate Lawson
Photography by Doug Inglish