You might know him as Brandon Brootal, but the creator's real name is Brandon McKesson.
He's known for his early 2000s emo and scene aesthetic on social media, including TikTok as @brandonbrootal7 and Instagram as @brandonmckesson.
Let's explore who Brandon really is—from his background and rise to fame to his personal life and what makes him a unique digital creator.
How old is Brandonbrootal?
Brandonbrootal was born on May 17, 1989, which makes him 36 years old in 2025. His spring birthday also means his zodiac sign is Taurus.
Where is Brandonbrootal from?
Brandon Brootal calls Charlotte, North Carolina, his hometown.
It looks like he's stayed in the area, as he has been mentioned in connection with the city recently.
Brandonbrootal's family and personal life
While Brandon tends to keep his family life private, his mother's name is known to be Sandra Phillips.
He has also been open with his followers about his personal life, sharing his mental health journey and feelings of loneliness. His admiration for music icons like Gerard Way, Patrick Stump, and Brendon Urie also offers a window into his influences.
Brandonbrootal's journey as a creator
Brandon's success as a creator seems rooted in his authentic embrace of the emo and scene subcultures, allowing him to build a genuine connection with a niche audience.
- He first appeared on TikTok in April 2020, posting content with a distinct early 2000s aesthetic.
- His popularity skyrocketed in July 2021 after his "I'm a hair perfectionist" video went viral, gaining over 4 million views.
- He also focused on building a community, engaging with his followers on platforms like Discord.
- In early 2022, rumors of his death circulated, though conflicting reports suggested he was alive. More recently, there were reports in 2024 of his arrest in Charlotte, North Carolina.
What kinds of followers does Brandonbrootal have?
Brandon's audience likely includes people who lived through the original 2000s emo wave and younger fans who are just discovering the scene. His content serves as a nostalgic trip for some and a fresh find for others.
Many of his followers probably connect with his openness about mental health and personal struggles. He's created a space where people who might feel like outsiders can find a sense of community.
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