9 ordinary people who went unexpectedly viral in 2022 described what it's like to be launched into the internet spotlight

The year 2022 proved anyone can become an accidental influencer overnight.

Ordinary people have long experienced unexpected internet fame, but with the rise of TikTok, it seems to be more common than ever.

Unlike many previous social platforms, TikTok shows viewers videos that have no link to the accounts they follow, which can lead to people receiving tens of millions of views despite never going viral online before. 

For some, the sudden attention of viral fame — on TikTok or otherwise — can be a positive experience, while others have become the target of online hate, proving it's difficult to predict what will happen once you hit "post."

From a Jewish choir whose catchy song took over TikTok thanks to a resurfaced video, to a wedding couple who had no idea their DJ had made them internet famous, here are nine stories from people who went viral in 2022, and their reactions to the sudden fame.

A TikTok interviewer went viral when he sat down for a chat with a seven-year-old who really liked corn.

A comedian launched a series where he asked taxi drivers to take him to their favorite spots in the city.

The Miami Boys Choir became a big hit on TikTok after a video from 2007 was shared online.

A college student faced intense online judgment after she shared a video of her relationship reunion.

A 100-year-old doctor proved you're never too old to go viral.

A canceled flight made a group of strangers go viral as they hatched a new plan to get home.

A tweet about a couple's morning coffee routine received backlash.

A dancer who wanted to go viral had her wish fulfilled thanks to a twerking flash mob at her wedding.

Two movie professionals were oblivious to the fact they'd gone viral on TikTok with 16 million views after their fiery stunt.