Bronx Seniors Launch Viral Social Media Fame with 2M Followers

UPDATE: A senior living community in The Bronx is making headlines as its residents rapidly rise to social media stardom, accumulating nearly 2 million followers on TikTok and Instagram since launching just last month. The “Old Friend Club” at RiverSpring Living is breaking stereotypes, showcasing the wisdom and vibrant personalities of its elderly members.

The group, composed of eight dynamic seniors, began their online journey in October 2023, quickly captivating audiences with their candid life advice and humorous takes on contemporary culture. “My daughter says, ‘Oh Mother, you just keep going on, we’re going to see you in Hollywood!’” exclaimed Shirley Johnson, 85, a resident of RiverSpring for nearly five years. This exciting venture has not only brought joy to the seniors but also provided a source of inspiration and connection for their viewers.

The Old Friend Club was initiated by Publity, a UK-based social media company, aiming to uplift senior communities. After a successful debut in the UK, the project expanded to the US due to overwhelming interest from American audiences. Dozens of residents auditioned for a spot in the club, showcasing their unique personalities, ultimately leading to the selection of eight standout members: Johnson, Lita Gottesman, Irma H. Clement, Irv Liebowitz, Sal Gonzalez, Amy Storch, Annita Treacy, and Marvin Marcus.

Gottesman, 88, has particularly resonated with fans, famously stating her life motto: “Don’t let the bastards get you down.” She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and building meaningful connections. “If I like myself, you’re going to like me,” she said, underscoring the club’s mission to foster community and understanding across generations.

Johnson gained viral fame as “The Matchmaker,” where she humorously matched celebrities with their partners in a recent segment. This newfound recognition has reignited her passion for community engagement. “Follow your dreams and life is worth the work you put into it! You will be rewarded,” she encouraged, reminding her followers of the value of living fully.

The emotional impact of the Old Friend Club extends beyond entertainment. Johnson shared how participating has provided her with a renewed sense of purpose, especially after experiencing significant personal loss. “The purpose is to keep on living,” she noted, expressing that her journey has also been a source of strength for her audience.

Clement, at 105 years old, embodies the club’s spirit of joy and resilience. She states, “This is a spirit of wholesome belonging,” highlighting the uplifting nature of their shared experiences. Her advice to younger generations revolves around enjoying life without regrets: “I want to move forward. I don’t want to die saying, ‘I wish I had.’”

Ollie Williams, creative director at Publity, emphasized the profound connections formed through the series. “People aren’t just learning from these seniors; they relate to them,” he said, reflecting on the meaningful interactions happening in the comment sections. “We might have a huge gap in terms of age, but not really in terms of how we respond to things.”

With the success of the Old Friend Club, the future looks bright for these seniors. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder that age does not define one’s ability to inspire, connect, and thrive. The community is eagerly watching to see what these vibrant seniors will do next as they continue to break barriers and redefine the narratives surrounding aging.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Old Friend Club continues to bridge generational gaps and spread positivity across social media platforms.