Introduction
Vikram Singh Barn, better known as Vikkstar123 or simply Vikkstar, was born on 2 August 1995 in Guildford, Surrey, England. Of Indian descent, Vikkstar grew up in a culturally rich environment, which shaped his diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit. He attended Silverdale School in Sheffield, where he excelled academically, particularly in science and mathematics. His early fascination with technology and gaming set the stage for his future career.
Entry into YouTube and the Rise of Vikkstar123
Vikkstar started his YouTube channel, Vikkstar123, in 2010 at the age of 15. Initially, he focused on Call of Duty gameplay videos, which quickly garnered a substantial following due to his strategic insights and engaging commentary. By 2013, he had joined the Sidemen, a collective of British YouTubers known for their collaborative content and challenges. This collaboration significantly boosted his visibility, and his subscriber count soared. As of 2023, Vikkstar123 has over 7.5 million subscribers and more than 2 billion views on his main channel.
Sidemen and Business Ventures
The Sidemen, consisting of seven members including KSI, Miniminter, and Zerkaa, have become one of the most influential groups on YouTube. Their success has led to numerous business ventures. Vikkstar is a co-owner of several Sidemen-related businesses, including:
- XIX Vodka: Launched in 2020, this premium vodka brand has become a staple in the UK market. In its first year, XIX Vodka generated over £5 million in revenue.
- Sidemen Clothing: This merchandise line, offering everything from hoodies to accessories, has seen tremendous success. The brand's annual revenue is estimated to be around £7 million.
- Sides: A restaurant chain specializing in chicken dishes, which has expanded to multiple locations across the UK. The chain's revenue in the first year of operation was approximately £3 million.
- Best Breakfasts: A cereal brand launched in 2021. Despite being a newer venture, it has quickly gained popularity and is projected to reach £2 million in sales by the end of 2023.
Record Producer and Music Endeavors
Apart from his YouTube career, Vikkstar has also ventured into music production. He has collaborated with various artists and produced tracks that have been well-received within the YouTube community. Although not as widely publicized, his music production endeavors have added a unique dimension to his portfolio.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Vikkstar is actively involved in philanthropy. He frequently participates in charity live streams and events. In 2020, he was part of a Sidemen Charity Match that raised over £100,000 for various causes, including mental health awareness and children’s hospitals. He also supports educational initiatives, donating substantial amounts to fund scholarships and educational programs in the UK and India.
Personal Life and Interests
Despite his public persona, Vikkstar maintains a relatively private personal life. He is known to have a keen interest in fitness and often shares his workout routines with his followers. His love for travel is evident from his social media, where he documents his adventures around the world. Notably, he has visited over 30 countries and often emphasizes the importance of experiencing diverse cultures.
Exclusive Insights and Future Prospects
In a less-known interview with Business Insider in 2022, Vikkstar revealed his aspirations to expand his business ventures into the tech industry. He expressed interest in developing gaming software and applications that could revolutionize the gaming experience. Additionally, he hinted at potential investments in eSports teams, recognizing the growing influence of competitive gaming.
Financially, Vikkstar's net worth is estimated to be around £15 million as of 2023. This includes his earnings from YouTube, business ventures, and investments. His diversified income streams and strategic business decisions have solidified his status as not only a prominent internet personality but also a savvy entrepreneur.
Conclusion
Vikram Singh Barn, or Vikkstar123, exemplifies the modern digital entrepreneur. From his early days in Guildford to becoming a global internet sensation and successful businessman, Vikkstar's journey is marked by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless drive for success. His contributions to the YouTube community, coupled with his entrepreneurial ventures, have left an indelible mark on the digital landscape. As he continues to explore new opportunities and expand his influence, Vikkstar remains a figure of inspiration for aspiring content creators and entrepreneurs worldwide.