Comedian Annie Korzen, 83, is a TikTok sensation
TikTok audiences usually skew young, but that hasn’t stopped 83-year-old “Seinfeld” guest actress and comedian Annie Korzen from embracing the platform. On Nov. 14 via Zoom, she’ll share the secrets to her TikTok success with the Los Angeles nonprofit Jewish story company, The Braid.
Since joining TikTok in April, Korzen has amassed 289,000 followers and 4.9 million likes.
The octogenarian admits she is not tech savvy and first learned about TikTok from her 7-year-old grandson. Wanting to expand her audience, Korzen thought Instagram would be a good visual outlet. Then she met 30-year-old writer Mackenzie Morrison at a charity event, who convinced her to switch platforms. Morrison is now Korzen’s producer, editor and music supervisor.
“I’ve always known who my audience is,” Korzen told SoCal Jewish News. “Middle-class, middle-aged women, mostly Jewish. Suddenly, I have all these young people. I think they’re looking for reassurance that old age can be OK. I think I’m talking about things they think about. I’m very grateful for it. I always liked speaking my own words and here I get to do that.”
@akorzen
Morrison said in a statement, “[Korzen’s] humor, wit, creativity, wisdom and pure confidence has not only been a spark of joy for her newly-found global fan base, but she has also reminded us all that being anything other than your most sincere, authentic self is … so boring.”
Korzen often shares comedic hard truths and advice about relationships and parenting on TikTok, all while donning an eccentric wardrobe with accessories and backdrops to match. Her earnestness in her videos also allows her to discuss deeper subject matter including humanity, adoption, race and Jewish identity.
Ronda Spinak, The Braid’s artistic director and co-founder, said in a statement she loves the energy Korzen brings, whether it’s to a small screen or a large stage. “She really embodies an outspokenness that’s very fearless and funny and very Jewish.”
Korzen, together with Morrison, will be featured on the live Zoom on Sunday, Nov. 14 as part of “Sunday with The Braid,” at 11 a.m. Pacific Time. Register here.