TikTok has revealed Ireland's most popular viral videos of 2022, which span everything from food recipes and lifestyle tips, to fashion and instantly meme-worthy pop culture moments.
The entertainment platform held its first-ever in-person event in Dublin's EPIC Museum today, where it celebrated some of the biggest and brightest stars of Irish TikTok. Donal Skehan, Keilidh Cashell, Killian Sundermann, and more were among the guests.
The list is a familiar and insightful summary of how we spent our time online and the memes that kept us laughing, from James Doyle's 'protein bor' community to Teresa Mannion's iconic 'Don't make unnecessary journeys' line.
It also highlighted the creators we turned to for inspiration, from Donal Skehan and his many delicious and easy-to-make recipes, to Sophie Murray and her endless supply of fashion inspo.
And, of course, there were the "comfort" accounts, the ones we seek out when we need an extra boost of dopamine in our day, such as Seal Rescue Ireland and their adorable community of seals.
Speaking about the year that's passed, Lisa Friedrich, the head of SMB for EMEA at TikTok, said: "We're honoured to celebrate our Irish and global community who shaped this year's trends, shared new ideas, learned from one another, and turned their passions into careers and livelihoods throughout 2022.
"Throughout 2022, TikTok creators in Ireland community continued to entertain, connect and inspire both in Ireland and around the world. TikTok joy and creativity are infused into many, many aspects of Irish culture and society.
"We are proud to have seen so many Irish creators emerge and thrive on TikTok this year. We look forward to watching the creators' continue to go from strength in 2023."
The most popular TikTok videos of 2022
- @gardenerbros - Irish Dancing brothers duo
- @fewcans - Comedy, entertainment, and beauty creator
- @sophie_murraayy - Fashion and beauty blogger
- @donalskehan - Famous Irish chef
- @sealrescueireland - Popular Irish NGO who has a huge following on TikTok
Most popular life lessons and hacks creators on TikTok
- @mirendarosenberg - Sustainable living in Donegal
- @kerrycowboy - Farming creator/Irish-speaking creator
- @simonescribes - Beauty creator who focuses on skincare
- @irishbudgeting - Budgeting creator sharing money-saving hacks
- @sean_flanagannn - Mental health awareness advocate
The most viewed artists on TikTok
- @robertgracemusic - 2.3 million followers.
- @niallhoran - over 4.8 million followers.
- @alliesherlock - over 318K followers.
- @ryanmackmusic - 1.8 million followers.
- @welshyofficial - 84.1K followers
- @beltersonly - 60K followers.
- @bradheidi - 199K followers.
- @a9offica - 145K followers.
- @picturethis - over 70K followers.
- @sammycopley - over 90K followers.
Breakthrough stars of TikTok 2022
- @pintofplane - Traditional Irish woodwork and tool restorer
- @itz_jacob_33 - Transgender creator who documented his transition online to help others
- @kategrantmodel - Tyrone-based Kate is a successful model who has Down Syndrome
- @makeupbyjade_1 - Renown makeup creator
- @fromnorthtosouth - Same-sex couple that travel all around Ireland, giving honest reviews
The top viral TikTok trends of 2022
- 'Don't make unnecessary journeys' meme by Teresa Mannion' - @irishconnection
- The Protein Bor trend - @jamesdoylefitness
- Department Store in Northern Ireland - @wardensofnewtownards
- 'FarmTok' - @K8_eeee
- Popular Dublin business owner, Mattress Mick - @mattressmick1
The most popular TikTok trends inspired by brands in 2022
- @gymandcoffeeplus - Irish athletics clothing brand
- @eatallreal - Irish SMB success story
- @2daywearemaking - Father/daughter food truck business
- @thesmoothstickcompany - SMB beauty business run by Aine alongside her Grandad Billy
- @kashbeauty - Beauty creator who owns the successful KASH Beauty
