Michael Barrymore becomes unlikely TikTok star with nearly 5m followers
Former primetime TV host Michael Barrymore, 74, has become an unlikely TikTok sensation with nearly 5 million followers, primarily among the under-30 demographic. He films himself eating dog treats and doing 'munchie runs,' a stark contrast to his previous career which ended abruptly after a pool death incident in 2001.
Why it matters
This article highlights the unpredictable nature of internet fame and how social media platforms like TikTok can offer a second act to public figures, even those with controversial pasts, by reaching new, younger audiences. It also touches on the generational divide in media consumption and celebrity recognition.
Michael Barrymore eating a Colin the Caterpillar cake, dog treats and a custard cream cake. Photograph: themichaelbarrymore Michael Barrymore eating a Colin the Caterpillar cake, dog treats and a custard cream cake. Photograph: themichaelbarrymore Television Michael Barrymore becomes unlikely TikTok star with nearly 5m followers Former primetime TV host films himself eating dog biscuits, doing ‘munchie runs’ and addressing pool death case
Michael Savage Media editor Sat 12 Sep 2026 09.00 EDT Last modified on Sat 12 Sep 2026 13.00 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google F ilming from the driver’s seat of his car, with his pet whippet, Lara, in the background, Michael Barrymore shows an array of dog treats he has collected to test to the camera. There’s a twist, though: it won’t be the dog doing the testing.
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