An over-the-top gossip snarker. A 15-year-old phenom. A famous blogger who launched into video. A series played out entirely on a computer desktop. These were the shows and stars who rose to the top of the web in 2008, earning their way onto NewTeeVee’s Top 10 Breakout Video Stars of 2008.
We on the NewTeeVee Team constructed our list of Breakout Stars with an eye for those who had made their name on the web — no Rosario Dawsons here — and had propelled themselves to the fore in the last year, whether by fanbase, hype or pushing web video where it hadn’t gone before. We consulted with expert advisers such as (former) Internet Superstar host Martin Sargent and UTA Online talent agent Barrett Garese. And we are bringing most of these amazing creators, either in person or digitally, to our NewTeeVee Live conference on Thursday.
They are, in alphabetical order:
- Matt Bledsoe and Troy Hitch, Creators, You Suck at Photoshop
- Michael Buckley, Host, Writer and Producer, What the Buck
- Brian Conley, CEO, Small World News
- Lucas Cruikshank, Partner, FEE Entertainment and Creator, Fred
- Felicia Day, Creator, The Guild
- Jake Hurwitz and Amir Blumenfeld, Creators, Jake and Amir
- Xeni Jardin, Host and Executive Producer, Boing Boing TV
- Jessica Lee Rose, Actor, Sorority Forever, Hooking Up, Blood Cell
- Jay Smooth, Producer, Editor and Host, Ill Doctrine
- Gary Vaynerchuk, Creator, Wine Library TV
Nice post, I always make a point of checking your blog, keep up the good work. Barbabra
Watching Vaynerchuk is like a master class in brand building (a very hyperactive master class). The guy sticks to his message, engages with his community and constantly works to promote himself across every new platform available. He even squeezed in a video show during a recent flight on Southwest Airlines. No wonder we named him one of our 2008 Breakout Video Stars.
He’s funny. I wsh I had his e-mail.
thats haken awsome!!!!!
I watched one of the funniest shows today and this guy will be on the list next year for sure.
Statix.tv
GamerGuru
Cheers,
Steve
“Those seeking to use web video to further their careers could do much worse than to emulate her example — but the most important thing they should take note of is her friendly and open interaction with fans.”
Took the words right outta my mouth…
great list. It seems like the stuff that is taking off is highly focused and concept driven. can’t wait to see who makes the list next year!
Good list, but the real question is…who is most likely to be 2009’s breakout video star?
I love that Conan towers over Gary. If Conan gets too annoyed, he can just squish Gary under his heel like an angry giant.
@Jeff: Actually, Felicia Day and I are gonna talk about our hair, mostly. Styling products, blow driers vs. straighteners, that sort of thing.
Felicia Day = Awesome. I can’t wait for the second season of The Guild.
I’m going to check out a few of those that I haven’t heard about before.
Congrats to all!
felicia day is amazing but i have to ask– what does buck DOOOOOOOO???!?!?!?!
Hey Jeff, I think/hope we’ll be hearing a lot more about their business success at the conference on Thursday.
Very cool selection – and a few I have yet to see. Quickly going to rectify that!
Have a great day!
Hey Liz, great choices! Of these breakout video stars, any insights into their business success (e.g. advertising, e-commerce)? Thanks.
Yay!
Thanks guys!
I can’t believe this is the video you posted! Yikes!
I think I may have to give the award back based on this!
HAHAHHAHAHHAHA
See you soon!
Buck