Colleen Ballinger

Biography

Colleen Mae Ballinger, born on November 21, 1986, in Santa Barbara, California, is a multifaceted American entertainer renowned for her work as a comedian, YouTuber, actress, singer, and writer. She gained widespread recognition through her creation and portrayal of the satirical character Miranda Sings, which led to a significant online presence and various entertainment ventures.​

Early Life and Education

Colleen was raised in Santa Barbara, California, where she was homeschooled during middle school before attending San Marcos High School. She later pursued a degree in vocal performance at Azusa Pacific University, graduating in 2008. Her passion for music and performance was evident from a young age, laying the foundation for her future career in entertainment. ​

Creation of Miranda Sings and YouTube Success

In 2008, Colleen introduced the character Miranda Sings, a satirical portrayal of a talentless and egotistical aspiring singer who believes she is destined for fame despite lacking talent. The character was inspired by real-life individuals Colleen observed during her college years. Miranda's YouTube channel quickly gained popularity, amassing over 10 million subscribers and more than 2.2 billion views. Colleen's personal YouTube channel also boasts a substantial following, with over 8 million subscribers and 1.7 billion views. ​

Expansion into Television and Live Performances

Building on her online success, Colleen expanded Miranda Sings into live performances, touring internationally with her one-woman comedy act. Her stage shows have been well-received, showcasing her ability to engage audiences beyond the digital realm. In 2016, she created and starred in the Netflix original series "Haters Back Off," which delved into Miranda's backstory and family life, further solidifying her presence in mainstream entertainment. ​

Personal Life

Colleen's personal life has been intertwined with her public persona. She was previously married to fellow YouTuber Joshua David Evans from 2015 until their divorce in 2016. In 2018, she married actor Erik Stocklin, whom she met during the casting of "Haters Back Off." The couple has three children: a son named Flynn Timothy, born in December 2018, and twins, a boy named Wesley Koy and a girl named Maisy Joanne, born in November 2021. 

Recent Controversies and Career Developments

In recent years, Colleen has faced scrutiny over allegations of inappropriate interactions with underage fans and other controversies. In June 2023, she addressed these allegations through a musical video response, which received mixed reactions. Following a brief hiatus, she returned to YouTube in November 2023, expressing remorse for her previous actions and indicating a commitment to personal growth and more mindful engagement with her audience. ​

Impact and Legacy

Colleen Ballinger's innovative approach to character comedy and her adept use of digital platforms have made her a significant figure in online entertainment. Her creation of Miranda Sings has not only entertained millions but also provided a satirical lens through which to view the pursuit of fame and talent in the digital age. Despite facing challenges and controversies, Colleen continues to influence the landscape of online content creation and performance art.​