Why This Veteran Created Kid-Friendly YouTube Sensation BLIPPI
By Movieguide® Contributor
This Veterans Day, we’re highlighting some of our favorite celebrities who served in the United States military.
Kid-friendly YouTube channel BLIPPI, known for its silly characters and child-focused content, was originally created by United States Air Force veteran Stevin John.
“He joined the Air Force in 2006, where he worked as a loadmaster for the C-17 Globemaster airplane at the 4th Airlift Squadron,” We Are the Mighty reported. “His main job was to plan cargo placement, mapping out pallets, tanks, and helicopters to keep it in balance throughout flight.”
“John ultimately served for two years and exited at the end of his contract in 2008. Publicly, he cited his reason for leaving was the time commitment and not wanting to continually travel in the future,” the source added.
His life changed when he decided to create fun videos for his 2-year-old nephew, and what began as simple content turned into a YouTube character loved by children around the world.
The character has become so popular that John has expanded beyond YouTube.
“What started as a YouTube channel has grown to a multi-platform operation. Blippi has a TV show, regular specials on Netflix and beyond, live shows and merchandise galore,” We Are the Mighty added.
In an interview with The Daily Mail, John reflected on his character.
“It seems like the kids really enjoy me but the parents do too because they can keep their kids entertained with Blippi and they know it’s safe content that’s educational. I love the interaction I have with kids and parents on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and email.”
He also shared how YouTube has opened up so much opportunity for him.
“It’s an amazing thing having access to all these platforms like YouTube which let you make a business out of creating content,” John added. “Back in the day you had to go to auditions and go to the large networks and give them all the control…I’m really thankful that I’m in the position I’m in – I get to do fun things every day for a living. Basically, I’m a kid again!”
Movieguide® previously reported on BLIPPI:
The legendary children’s show host, Fred Rogers, appealed to children in a gentle, calm and wise manner. Blippi takes the opposite approach. He is goofy, silly and full of high energy. Mr. Rogers valued people and curiosity. Blippi values fun and curiosity. There are some missed opportunities here regarding production, how the show targets kids and how it could be more helpful to children’s emotional and behavioral development. But it is overall wholesome, with some minor questionable elements.
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