From Gen Alpha to the Silent Generation, every era of YouTube created two types of female creators: the ones the internet completely embraced… and the ones people could not stand watching anymore.

This video breaks down the rise, controversies, scandals, and legacies of some of the most talked-about female YouTubers ever — from BBop and Clara Dao to Colleen Ballinger, Ellen DeGeneres, Cooking With Lynja, Jenna Marbles, Shirley Curry, Sofi Manassyan, Like Nastya, and more.

Some creators built audiences through authenticity, creativity, and kindness. Others built careers on manipulation, exploitation, controversy, or carefully crafted personas that eventually collapsed in public.

We cover:

BBop & BeBop’s disturbing childhood content
Like Nastya becoming Gen Alpha’s most beloved creator
Clara Dao’s body positivity controversy and OnlyFans backlash
Sofi Manassyan quietly distancing herself from toxic influencer circles
Colleen Ballinger’s downfall and toxic gossip train apology
Why Jenna Marbles is still respected years after leaving YouTube
The Vegan Teacher becoming one of the internet’s biggest punchlines
Mel Robbins building one of the most trusted online brands
Ellen DeGeneres’ “be kind” image collapsing
The heartbreaking story of Cooking With Lynja
Skyrim Grandma proving it’s never too late to change lives online

At the end of the day, every creator had the same choice: use influence honestly… or abuse it until the audience eventually sees through the act.