If you’ve spent any time on YouTube or have children who do, you’ve likely heard of Ryan Kaji, the young sensation behind the massively popular channel Ryan’s World (formerly known as Ryan’s Toy Review).
Since his debut, Ryan has captured the hearts of millions with his unboxing videos, educational content, and family-friendly adventures.
But one question that often comes up is: How old is Ryan now?
As of September 2024, Ryan Kaji is 12 years old. Born on October 6, 2011, he is nearing his 13th birthday.
Key Takeaways
- Ryan Kaji is 12 years old as of September 2024, born on October 6, 2011, and is nearing his 13th birthday.
- He began his YouTube channel at age three in 2015, where his first video featured him unboxing a Lego train set.
- Ryan’s World has around 32 million subscribers and 50 billion views, making it one of the most-watched YouTube channels globally.
- By age seven, Ryan became a global brand, launching merchandise, toys, and a Nickelodeon series, with an estimated net worth of around $100 million.
- Parental guidance has been crucial, ensuring his content is appropriate while balancing his schooling and personal development.
Early Life and Introduction to YouTube
A Star Is Born
Ryan Haruto Nguyen, known professionally as Ryan Kaji, was born to Shion Kaji and Loann Kaji in Texas, USA. His parents are of Japanese and Vietnamese descent, and they have been instrumental in nurturing his YouTube career.
His journey began in 2015 when he was just three years old. Fascinated by other toy review videos on YouTube, he innocently asked his mother, “Why am I not on YouTube when all the other kids are?”
The First Video
Taking his curiosity to heart, Ryan’s parents started the Ryan’s Toy Review channel in March 2015. His first video featured him picking out a Lego train set from a store and playing with it after unboxing it. The video was simple but charming, capturing the genuine excitement of a child exploring a new toy. Little did they know that this humble beginning would set the stage for a YouTube empire.
The Meteoric Rise to Fame
Over the next few years, Ryan’s channel experienced explosive growth. By the age of five, he had become one of YouTube’s most popular creators. His videos, characterized by their wholesome content and genuine enthusiasm, resonated with children and parents alike.
- Subscriber Milestones: By 2016, the channel had amassed over 1 million subscribers. As of September 2023, Ryan’s World boasts over 30 million subscribers.
- Views Galore: The channel’s videos have accumulated over 50 billion views, making it one of the most-watched YouTube channels globally.
Content Evolution
As Ryan grew older, his content evolved. Initially focused on toy unboxing and reviews, the channel expanded to include educational videos, science experiments, and family adventures. This shift not only kept the content fresh but also catered to a broader audience.
Business Ventures and Branding
Merchandise and Licensing
At the tender age of seven, Ryan became more than just a YouTuber; he became a brand. Collaborating with PocketWatch, a children’s media company, Ryan launched a line of toys and merchandise in 2018.
- Ryan’s World Toys: Available at major retailers like Walmart and Target, the product line includes action figures, slime kits, and more.
- Clothing and Accessories: The brand extended to apparel, school supplies, and other children’s accessories.
Television and Digital Media
Recognizing the potential beyond YouTube, Ryan ventured into other media forms.
- “Ryan’s Mystery Playdate”: In 2019, Nickelodeon premiered this live-action series featuring Ryan and his family engaging in imaginative playdates.
- Educational Apps and Games: Interactive apps like “Tag with Ryan” have been developed, combining entertainment with learning.
The Role of Age in His Success
Relatability
One of the key factors in Ryan’s appeal is his age. Children watching his videos find him relatable because he is close to their age group. His genuine reactions and unfiltered joy resonate with young viewers who see themselves in him.
Parental Guidance
Being a minor, Ryan’s content is carefully curated by his parents to ensure it is appropriate and engaging. This parental involvement has been crucial in maintaining the channel’s reputation for safe, family-friendly content.
Growing Up in the Spotlight
As Ryan approaches his 12th birthday, there’s curiosity about how his content will adapt to his maturing interests.
- Content Maturity: While still maintaining his core audience, there’s potential for more complex and educational content that aligns with his age.
- Balancing Life and Fame: His parents have emphasized the importance of a balanced life, ensuring Ryan’s schooling and personal development are not overshadowed by his online presence.
Financial Achievements
Earnings and Net Worth
Ryan’s young age hasn’t impeded his earning potential. His age makes his financial achievements even more remarkable.
- Forbes Recognition: Ryan topped Forbes’ list of Highest-Paid YouTube Stars in 2018, 2019, and 2020, with annual earnings estimated between $22 million and $30 million.
- Brand Deals: Partnerships with companies like Colgate and Roku have added to his revenue streams.
Ryan’s parents have set up trust funds to secure his financial future. This ensures that his earnings are managed responsibly until he reaches adulthood, his estimated net worth is around 100$ million dollars, can u imagine that at only 12 years old?