The rise of digital content has not been an exclusive playground for the younger generation. YouTube, one of the largest video-sharing platforms, boasts a diverse range of content creators, offering a stunning array of voices, perspectives, and stories. Amongst these are some truly inspiring older content creators who defy age stereotypes, demonstrating that the zest for life and the desire to share experiences do not wane with age.
This article shines a spotlight on ten of the oldest YouTubers in the world, proving that digital creativity knows no age limit. These seasoned individuals have gathered followings by sharing their wisdom, humor, and unique life stories, capturing the hearts of viewers across generations.
List of Oldest YouTubers in the World
1. Shirley Curry – The Gaming Grandma
At 84 years old, Shirley Curry is fondly known as the “Gaming Grandma” within the YouTube community. Shirley’s channel is a heart-warming mixture of her passion for gaming, primarily “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” and her interactions with her dedicated fan base. She started her channel in 2015 and has since gained hundreds of thousands of followers.
Shirley not only plays games, but she also engages in Q&A sessions and shares vlog-style updates about her life, endearing her to viewers around the world. Curry has been such an influence in the gaming community that she’s slated to appear as an NPC in the next “The Elder Scrolls” game.
2. Charles Allcock – The Centenarian Storyteller
Having lived through over a century of history, 100-year-old Charles Allcock’s YouTube channel is nothing short of a living time capsule. With a keen intellect and exceptional memory, Charles shares tales from his life, offering insights into a world that many of his viewers have only read about in history books. From discussing World War II to remembering the days before television, Charles educates and entertains with each video.
He started creating videos at the urging of younger relatives, and he’s since developed a loyal following for his detailed personal recollections. Charles’ unique perspective on life’s evolution is a treasure that provides a human connection to the past.
3. Mastanamma – India’s Beloved Cook
Mastanamma garnered fame on YouTube as a 100-year-old grandmother from India who cooked traditional dishes with a flair only a century of experience could provide. Before her passing in 2018, Mastanamma’s channel “Country Foods” became widely celebrated for its rustic cooking style and the traditional techniques she used. She captured hearts with her toothless smile and her traditional method of cooking on an open fire, in the most natural surroundings.
Her channel showcased the simplicity of rural Indian life and the authenticity of flavor in cooking that no modern kitchen could replicate. Although she is no longer with us, Mastanamma’s recipes and legacy continue to thrive on YouTube, inspiring viewers globally.
4. Peter Oakley – Telling It Like It Is
The late Peter Oakley, known on YouTube as “geriatric1927,” was once described as the Internet’s grandfather. Born in 1927, he uploaded his first video in 2006, capturing hearts with his gentle demeanor and his series dubbed “Telling It Like It Is”, which described life in the early 20th century. He shared everything from his experiences during wartime to the complexities of modern technology.
Oakley’s death in 2014 left behind a following that appreciated his authentic glimpse into the past and embrace of modern-day technology. His channel remains as a window into the thoughts and lives of those who witnessed an incredible era of change.
5. Tim Rowett – Toy Collector Extraordinaire
Tim Rowett, known as “Grand Illusions” on YouTube, showcases his vast collection of toys and games, to an audience that spans across all ages. Born in the 1940s, Tim, with his childlike wonder, delights in sharing his finds – some antique, some novel, and all fascinating. His enthusiasm radiates through the screen as he demonstrates the mechanics and history behind each item in his extensive collection.
His videos are not only entertaining but also educational, as he often shares the background and science of the toys. Tim has built a community of viewers who share his love for the whimsical and the wondrous.
6. Clara Cannucciari – The Depression-Era Cook
Though she’s passed away, Clara Cannucciari, the host of “Great Depression Cooking,” is still celebrated for her heartwarming videos where she cooked simple, affordable meals reminiscent of the 1930s. Clara was born in 1915 and started her YouTube journey in her 90s.
She provided a genuine account of what life was like during the Great Depression, sharing not just recipes but stories, tips, and life lessons. Her practical dishes, such as “Poor Man’s Meal” and “Dandelion Salad,” showcased the resolve and creativity needed during tough economic times. Her legacy endures as her channel continues to offer invaluable cooking and living wisdom.
7. Steve Green – Model Railroad Enthusiast
Steve Green is a testament to the power of embracing your passions regardless of age. His channel, “The MRYCG,” focuses on his love for model trains and railways. Born in the 1930s, Steve not only showcases his impressive model railway builds but provides tutorials and engaging content for fellow enthusiasts. His eye for detail and patience in constructing intricate rail worlds have earned him a loyal viewership.
Whether engaging with young modelers or seasoned hobbyists, Steve’s YouTube presence is a platform of shared enthusiasm and community-building around a timeless pastime.
8. Jon Sudano – The Vocal Wonder
Jon Sudano might not be what you’d typically expect in a list of oldest YouTubers, but he stands as a unique entry among elderly content creators. Best known for his deadpan covers of songs where he incorporates the lyrics of Smash Mouth’s “All Star,” Jon’s humor and vocal antics brought him viral fame.
Sudano showcases the power of reinvention at any age and the universal language of laughter. His quirky renditions remind us that youth is a state of mind and creativity knows no expiration date.
9. Lorne Figley – The Master Handyman
Lorne Figley proves that experience truly comes with age. His channel is a goldmine of practical knowledge, with videos demonstrating his skills in plumbing, heating, and other trades. Born in 1921, Lorne is the record holder for the world’s oldest YouTuber, according to the Guinness World Records.
His no-nonsense approach to teaching and his commitment to an active lifestyle inspire countless viewers. Whether providing DIY tips or sharing wisdom gleaned from decades of work, Lorne’s videos demonstrate that age should never be a barrier to sharing knowledge and keeping active.
10. Paul Soares Jr – Let’s Play Pioneer
Paul Soares Jr may not be as old as the others on this list, but as one of the pioneering content creators of the “Let’s Play” genre, his legacy on YouTube is significant. Since 2010, he has been producing detailed walkthroughs and instructional videos for various video games, particularly “Minecraft,” helping and entertaining people of different ages.
As an older figure in a largely youth-dominated field, Paul has carved out a niche that resonates with both older gamers and those looking for a mature perspective on gaming entertainment. His warmth and friendly on-screen persona make him a standout figure among gamers on YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a YouTuber old?
In the context of YouTube influencers, “old” is a relative term. Typically, it refers to creators who are significantly older than the average demographic of YouTube content creators and viewers, who tend to be in their teens and twenties. For this list, we’re focusing on YouTubers over the age of 60 or those who have established a long-term presence on the platform, impacting multiple generations.
How do older YouTubers engage with their audience differently compared to younger ones?
Older YouTubers often bring a different perspective to their content, shaped by many years of life experience. They tend to engage with their audience by sharing wisdom, historical context, and life lessons. Their approach to engagement may be less about following trends and more about authenticity and storytelling.
Can becoming a YouTuber later in life be a successful endeavor?
Absolutely. Many seniors have found success on YouTube by focusing on niches that appeal to a broad audience or that resonate with their own age group. Authenticity, passion, and unique content can lead to a successful YouTube presence at any age.
What types of content do older YouTubers typically produce?
The content created by older YouTubers is incredibly diverse and can include gaming, storytelling, cooking, tutorials, historical accounts, music, and more. They bring a variety of interests and expertise to their channels, appealing to wide and often cross-generational audiences.
How can one support older YouTubers?
Supporting older YouTubers can be done in the same ways as supporting any YouTuber: by watching their videos, subscribing to their channels, engaging with their content through likes and comments, and sharing their videos with others. Some may also have Patreon accounts or merchandise available for those who wish to offer financial support.
Conclusion
The oldest YouTubers in the world demonstrate that technology and age are not mutually exclusive. These trailblazers use YouTube as a medium to connect across generations, share knowledge, and touch lives in meaningful ways. From gamers to storytellers, from cooks to craftsmen, they prove that age is just a number and passion is ageless.
Channels like those run by Shirley Curry, Charles Allcock, and Mastanamma will continue to inspire individuals of all ages to create, share, and build communities. In the world of YouTube, the spotlight shines not on age, but on the creativity, persistence, and sincerity that these content creators bring to their audiences.