Several women who became grandparents long before the smartphone era have emerged as prominent creators on TikTok, amassing sizeable followings and media attention.
Grandma Droniak, Nonna Gracie, Viv Truran and Barbara Costello are among those credited with bringing older voices into the centre of short-form social media. One of the creators told the BBC: "I'm 96 and have 15 million followers," a remark that underlines the scale of audience interest some of these accounts have generated.
Their videos cover everyday moments, humour and personal stories and have resonated across generations. Observers say the appeal often lies in the contrast between youthful platform norms and the authenticity and perspective older creators bring; fans cite warmth, wit and a refreshing absence of trend-chasing as reasons for following.
The popularity of older creators on TikTok also speaks to broader shifts in online culture. Platforms that reward short, shareable clips make it easier for atypical personalities to break through, while audiences increasingly seek varied representation and content that defies stereotypes about age and technology.
Industry analysts and cultural commentators note the phenomenon is part of a wider expansion in the types of people who can gain visibility on social platforms. Whether for entertainment, companionship or intergenerational connection, the success of these grandmothers demonstrates how social media can amplify unexpected voices.
As the trend continues, creators like Grandma Droniak, Nonna Gracie, Viv Truran and Barbara Costello are not only entertaining large audiences but also prompting discussions about ageing, visibility and who gets to be influential online.