The inaugural TikTok Awards celebrated the most influential content creators for their significant impact and contributions to popular internet culture. Held at the Hollywood Palladium on Thursday night, December 18, 2025, the event was live-streamed on the TikTok app and Tubi, honoring creators who have shaped the digital landscape.

Hours before the ceremony, crucial news broke regarding the future of TikTok in the United States. TikTok and ByteDance signed agreements with three managing investors—Oracle, Silverlake, and MGX—to form a new TikTok U.S. joint venture. This agreement, set to close on January 22, 2026, is a pivotal step towards ensuring the popular social media platform continues operating in the U.S., potentially preventing a ban.

Despite the relief that a ban might be averted, the news brought a wave of uncertainty and concern among content creators at the awards ceremony. Many expressed apprehension about how the app might change under its new investors, particularly with Oracle, a software company led by billionaire Larry Ellison, a known ally of Donald Trump, becoming one of the American investors.

Creators shared specific worries on the red carpet. Rei Ami, star of “K-pop Demon Hunters,” voiced her fear of censorship, hoping TikTok would remain steadfast in its pledge against it, stating that censorship contradicts America’s founding principles. TikTok star Merrick Hanna, known for his robotic dance moves, hoped the app wouldn't change too much, expressing concern that new owners might influence the type of content served on users' For You Pages. Yasmine Sahid, actress and content creator for “Overcompensating,” was nervous about the potential impact on TikTok’s algorithm, advocating for its integrity and freedom of speech. Beauty TikToker Golloria George, who built her platform on makeup inclusivity, emphasized the importance of TikTok staying authentic and allowing creators to voice their opinions without fear of censorship.

While concerns about censorship and algorithm shifts were palpable, a shared sentiment of relief was also present among the attendees, knowing the pending deal would keep TikTok operational in the U.S. TikTok star Markell Washington highlighted the current challenges with the algorithm, describing it as confusing and demanding. He expressed hope that after the sale, the algorithm would return to its original form, making content creation enjoyable again. Canadian influencer and businessman Josh Richards, on the other hand, was happy about the platform finding buyers, acknowledging TikTok's immense role in enabling individuals to create income and businesses, especially benefiting small enterprises and providing creative outlets for many.

The TikTok Awards ceremony, hosted by La La Anthony, recognized creators across 14 categories. The night's highest honor, the Creator of the Year Award, went to New Orleans-based Keith Lee. With 17.3 million followers, Lee has gained renown for spotlighting small food businesses, leveraging his platform to generate massive customer demand and turning many restaurants into overnight successes.

Accepting his award, Keith Lee shared a heartfelt speech, reflecting on his journey from a nervous professional fighter to a confident platform speaker who champions small businesses. He emphasized the personal significance of the award, often prioritizing others but recognizing this as a moment for himself. Following Lee’s speech, La La Anthony announced TikTok’s pledge of $50,000 to Feeding America to combat food insecurity.

The event also featured several special surprises, including a performance by “Dancing With the Stars” duo Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa, TikTok shop giveaways, a Labubu cannon launching plush toys into the audience, and a headlining performance by music superstar Ciara, who performed a medley of her hits including “My Goodies,” “Oh,” “Like a Boy,” “Level Up,” and “1, 2 Step.”

Fans cast their votes for their favorite creators via the TikTok app’s awards hub from November 18 to December 2. Other notable winners included Bretman Rock (Video of the Year), Jeremiah Brown (Rising Star of the Year), Alex Warren (Breakthrough Artist of the Year), Tineke Younger (Storyteller of the Year), Paris Hilton (Muse of the Year), Zach and Pat Valentine (TikTok For Good Award), Dayane Chrissel (My Show Is On), Mariah Rose (MVP of the Year), Katie Fang (Okay Slay), Law By Mike (I Was Today Years Old), KlothesMinded (Immediately Added To Cart), Recider (CapCut Creator of the Year), and Elizabeth Esparza (TikTok Live Creator of the Year).