Could this be a recession indicator, or has Hollywood truly gone insane?
In case you aren’t chronically online like me and many other millennials and Gen Zs, you may not be aware that there are several actors who have taken it upon themselves to allegedly create alter egos online, which have unsurprisingly gone viral. And you might be thinking: aren’t these people busy with their film careers? Which is a totally valid question. But it’s clear some of them have found some free time in their schedules.
One of the more recognizable personas on TikTok is elementary school art teacher Matt Taylor, who fans believe is actually Paul Blart: Mall Cop star Kevin James. Currently sitting with more than 800,000 followers, “Mr. Taylor” starts every video with, “Hey guys! Mr. Taylor here,” before sharing some motivational words as well as his artwork (which is quite good, if I’m being honest).
Though James hasn’t officially confirmed he’s the man behind the mysterious TikTok art teacher, their identical appearance makes it pretty obvious, and James doesn’t have an identical twin. At least not one the public knows about.
But some may be wondering the reason behind the alter ego. Only time will tell, but it could potentially be a promotional effort for an upcoming role or movie. James is slated to next star in the rom-com Solo Mio, releasing Feb. 6.
Now, a face that’s a little less recognizable is Mr. Fantasy, who fans suspect is Riverdale star KJ Apa. With more than 1.1 million followers on TikTok, he became a viral sensation due to his eccentric personality, quirky style and unforgettable black bob and fake teeth (completely opposite to Apa’s appearance).
Since his first video in August — which captured people’s attention as theories started to spread that he’s really Apa, as they share the exact same tattoos — Mr. Fantasy has fully committed to the persona, traveling around the world making videos, dropping three original songs and even performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Though Apa has yet to confirm their connection or the reason for the alter ego, Mr. Fantasy previously told The Hollywood Reporter that he’s also not bothered by people comparing them on social media.
“Not bothered by it, not bothered by it,” he said. “Things bother me sometimes, but I keep my eyes upward, and I keep trudging the happy road of happy destiny. You know, things can be hurtful, sure, but I focus on the positive. I focus on the people whom I love and who love me and that have a positive influence on my life, like James Franco.”
The more obscure conspiracy theory making waves on social media is that Marty Supreme star Timothée Chalamet is actually U.K. rapper EsDeeKid. Up until Thursday, fans were only tying them together because of their similar eyes, as EsDeeKid keeps the rest of his face shielded from the public eye.
However, during a new interview with Heart Radio in the U.K., Chalamet said, “I’ve got no comment,” when asked about the rumors, before vaguely teasing, “I’ve got two words on that. All will be revealed in due time.”
Although that’s still not a confirmation, it was likely enough to keep the theories swirling online. Especially since Chalamet is a known fan of hip-hop music, and even rapped under the alias Lil’ Timmy growing up.
But as Mr. Fantasy, Mr. Taylor and EsDeeKid continue to find their own stardom outside of their true identities, let’s not forget the OG alter ego: Hannah Montana, aka Miley Stewart, aka Miley Cyrus. That role originated on the hit Disney Channel series that premiered in 2006, launching Cyrus’ career as a teen.