Tyler Oakley, an American content creator, LGBTQ+ activist and New York Times best-selling author, will speak at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 1, in the Cone University Center, McKnight Hall, as part of the Forty-Niner Forum Speakers Series.
With more than 7.5 million subscribers on YouTube and more than 23 million followers across his social media platforms, Oakley is considered one of the most influential LGBTQ+ vloggers. Viewers often describe his videos as hilarious, engaging and unapologetically personal. Often, they focus on all things pop culture.
A graduate of Michigan State University, Oakley, while at college, dealt with a short period of depression following a breakup with a long-time boyfriend; he has admitted to considering suicide during this time.
“Through his lens as an LGBTQIA activist, he has a unique take on managing a personal brand, navigating mental health challenges post-trauma and prioritizing self-care,” said Nadia Campbell, assistant director for Leadership & Community Engagement. “These are areas of life where many college students struggle, and Tyler has a great grasp on such topics that would yield great advice for our student population.”
Oakley and his best friend, Korey Kuhl, are competing on the 31st season of “The Amazing Race” after the duo placed third in the 28th season. Together, they currently run "Psychobabble," a weekly podcast discussing "unfiltered gossip" and untold stories that has topped the iTunes podcast chart.
The YouTube star has completed 30 stops of his international “Slumber Party”-themed tour and his book “Binge” was number one of the New York Times Best Seller list for 11 weeks. His highly anticipated documentary, “SNERVOUS,” also recently debuted.
Among his many accomplishments, Oakley has raised more than $1 million for the Trevor Project and has won Teen Choice, Streamy (for online video), Shorty (for social media) and Webby (internet excellence) awards.