They say it takes time to go viral on social media, or become a legit influencer. But for actress Annie Korzen, becoming a viral media sensation at the grand age of 84 was never originally the plan, yet she is thriving in her new role as an accidental influencer, or “grandfluencer” as she is often referred to.
Annie has amassed over 400,000 TikTok followers and 10 million likes (and counting!), and her decades-long career in TV, film, and theater—including a recurring role on Seinfeld and a center-stage spot touring with The Moth has all led to her new ‘masterpiece’. She has just released her latest project, The Book Of Annie, a collection of humorous personal essays and observations based on her many years of aspiring, failing and, finally, triumphing!
In a press statement, Annie says: “I want my readers to laugh, to cry, and to be stunned by some unexpected truths. Most importantly, I hope they will start to see older women in a different light from the worn out cliches. In my 80s, I am busier and happier than I’ve ever been. And a helluva lot wiser.”
Whether she’s sharing her thoughts on the miracle of childbirth (‘It’s a miracle that anyone who’s been through it is willing to do it again”), religion (William Shakespeare was not Jewish, no Jew could write a play called ‘All’s Well That Ends Well’), motherhood, or any other topic, underlying the humor are poignant observations that feel particularly relevant today: how we’re all more alike than different, and the freedom to be found in self-acceptance.
Annie’s status as grandfluencer has also tapped into a Gen Z audience who are looking to senior women for wisdom and inspiration. Her trademark unabashed takes on both every day and typically taboo topics continue to strike a chord which she captures in her new book. Annie’s raw authenticity and wisdom, gathered over eight decades, is especially intriguing as it offers insight and laughter that resonates across generations.
We had the chance to talk to Annie about her new book, how she deals with influencer fame, and how she is using her platform to spread love and light in a world that is often filled with so much heaviness.
@akorzen Presale link in bio 🥰
♬ original sound – Annie Korzen
Congrats on the upcoming release of your book! What made you decide to write ‘The Book of Annie’?
First and foremost, I need the money. Plus I love attention. And I sincerely believe that the highly entertaining contents of my book just might make the world a better place. Everyone on the planet should read it, and then name me Ruler of The Earth.
As a celebrated actress with a long career, what is your secret to success at any age or stage of your life?
Just keep doing what you love to do. Do it for money, do it for no money, do it for a slice of pie. Every time you do it, you will improve your skills. Every failure is a learning opportunity.
At 84 years old you are not slowing down, and have even conquered the digital landscape! With hundreds of thousands of followers, and millions liking your videos on TikTok, how has social media given new life to your creativity?
I always thought that my target audience as a humorist was older, urban, Jewish women like myself. Boy, was I wrong! It turns out that my most passionate fans are young people of every color and denomination. My favorite comment from a follower is, “I do not understand why I relate so profoundly to an American Jewish woman in her 80s. I am a 16-year-old Afghan boy!”
@akorzen I just have one question #mothersday #worldshardestjob ♬ original sound – Annie Korzen
What are some of your favorite topics to talk about and make videos on?
Dating, Marriage, Motherhood, Thrifting, Lifestyle, Food, Travel, Religion (or lack of it), Movies, TV, Books, Career Issues. What I love most is to complain – especially about men.
As you share a lot of great advice and wisdom you’ve learned throughout the years, what has been some of the best advice that has helped you through life?
A therapist told me a zillion years ago that all creative people have more than one talent. That’s when I thought that I might be able to write, in addition to being an unemployed actress.
As a “Grandfluencer” who has gone viral among Gen Z followers, how has TikTok become a way for different generations to connect?
Younger people have started to look to older women for wisdom and inspiration, and it’s about time! TikTok has become a place for that young/old relationship to flourish. My fans often laud me for being funny, honest, and authentic. This is very gratifying, since I have always been criticized for being too candid, too opinionated and too talkative. It’s wonderful to now be celebrated for qualities I’ve always apologized for.
@akorzen #krispykreme ♬ original sound – Annie Korzen
Were there any essays or stories in your book that were difficult or uncomfortable to write about?
One of my most successful stories was the hardest one to write. It’s about the darkest period of my life: my postpartum depression. It turned out that forcing myself to face this painful event was very healing. And I managed to make it funny!
Your one-liners and hilarious perspective on everyday things brings us so much joy. Why do you think it is important to cultivate joy in the small everyday ways, in a world that can be so dark and heavy right now?
I try to be grateful for those mundane pleasures, like a walk in the park. I remember the Auschwitz survivor who said that she revels in the luxury of a boring evening at home. And I assuage the guilt of my fortunate life by contributing to organizations that work to make the world a better place. We can’t solve all the world’s problems, but we should each take whatever action we can to improve things.
@akorzen ♬ original sound – Annie Korzen
How do you use your platform in moments when followers are turning to their influencers to comment on current events?
I rarely comment on current events: that subject is too ugly, too painful, too divisive. I do, however, offer one suggestion regarding every story of brutal inhumanity: put women in charge of everything – starting with me.
We love that we get to see you with your family on Shabbat and other moments. Why is it important for you to share more about your life in this way?
Everything I share about my personal life is meant to inspire people to be open to love. When I post videos with my black friends, and my gay friends, I am secretly preaching a message of tolerance. Uh-oh! Now the secret is out!
You are a master at spreading humor, joy and light on our social feeds, on TV and now in your new book! What do you hope readers will love most about ‘The Book of Annie’?
The laughs, the tears, and the incredibly brilliant and profound insights about how to navigate the challenges of a humanoid existence.
You can buy ‘The Book of Annie’, out now. Be sure to follow Annie Korzen on TikTok for more wisdom, humor and light!
