Overview

#Valkyrae (Rachael Hofstetter) became YouTube Gaming’s biggest female streamer (3.9M+ subscribers) after leaving Twitch (2020). The Filipino-American Among Us breakout star (2020), 100 Thieves co-owner, and RFLCT skincare controversy survivor (2021) proved YouTube Gaming could compete with Twitch for top talent.

The Rise

Started Twitch (2018), played Fortnite/League. Among Us explosion (2020) with Corpse Husband/Pokimane/Toast. January 2020: exclusive YouTube deal. Among Us became cultural phenomenon, Rae at center. Known for: positivity, Filipino pride, Yay-Rae emote, and content creation beyond gaming (vlogs, music videos).

RFLCT Skincare Disaster

October 2021: launched RFLCT skincare claiming “blue light protection” from screens. Scientific community: “That’s not real.” Backlash: pseudoscience accusations, partnership with sketchy company. Rae terminated deal, apologized, admitted she was misled. Career survived, but trust damaged. Lesson: influencers need due diligence on partnerships.

Sources:

• YouTube stats:
• The Verge RFLCT: https://www.theverge.com/