TikTok’s Record-Breaking Videos: The Stories and Secrets Behind the Platform’s Most Watched Moments

What Makes a TikTok Video the Most Viewed?

In the fast-paced world of TikTok, videos soar in popularity based on creativity, timing, and, let’s face it, a bit of magic.

While millions post on the platform every day, only a few reach record-breaking view counts.

From clever illusions to catchy lip-syncs, each of these videos has something that viewers can’t resist watching—and re-watching.

Here’s the story behind the most viewed TikToks that captured the global imagination.

1. Zach King’s “Magic Ride” – 2.3 Billion Views

Zach King is the master illusionist of TikTok, and his “Magic Ride” video shows why.

At first glance, it looks like he’s casually floating on a broomstick, Harry Potter style.

But Zach’s twist on special effects had people stopping, staring, and re-watching to figure out the illusion.

@zachking They rejected my application to Hogwarts but I still found a way to be a wizard. #illusion #magic #harrypotter ♬ Zach Kings Magic Broomstick – Zach King

TikTok’s algorithm likely recognized the repeat views, pushing it into millions of For You pages (FYP) worldwide.

This video isn’t just about the trick itself—it’s a testament to TikTok’s capacity for blending visual magic with cultural nostalgia, evoking memories of classic fantasy movies with a modern social media twist.

2. James Charles’ “Christmas Sisters Party” – 1.7 Billion Views

Beauty mogul James Charles swapped makeup brushes for holiday magic with his “Sisters Christmas Party” video.

Here, Charles offers a behind-the-scenes look at a glittering holiday bash, complete with winter decorations that feel almost cinematic.

@jamescharles Welcome to the Sisters Christmas Party! #fyp #christmas #HolidayBeat ♬ Tactical Christmas – Chivi

This video resonates because it taps into the festive, feel-good holiday spirit, reminding viewers of grand celebrations during a time when we crave connection.

The sheer volume of holiday cheer—and perhaps a bit of FOMO—had users replaying and sharing the clip, giving it an edge during one of the highest-engagement seasons of the year.

3. Zach King’s “Unexpected Hiding Spots” – 1.1 Billion Views

Another entry from Zach King, the “Unexpected Hiding Spots” video plays with the classic game of hide-and-seek, reimagining it with optical illusions.

Zach’s ability to turn an ordinary scenario into a magical one keeps viewers hooked.

His approach not only demonstrates technical skill but also plays on the universal thrill of discovery, making it a favorite among younger audiences who enjoy the “mind-bending” genre.

@zachking This is the best hiding spot ever #hideandseek #magic ♬ original sound – Zach King

This video’s popularity can be traced back to how it makes us question the very basics of what we’re seeing, fulfilling that itch for novelty in a way that only Zach can pull off.

4. Zach King’s “Glass and Cake Illusion” – 967 Million Views

When Zach King “pours” water into what appears to be a glass, only to reveal it’s actually a cake, he plays into the famous “Is it cake?” trend.

But unlike typical videos in that genre, Zach’s version uses high-quality editing to pull off the illusion in a way that’s more surprising than most.

@zachking Do you see the glass as half full or half empty?? #perspective #magic ♬ Glass Half Full Zach King – Zach King

The “gotcha” moment of the illusion makes viewers feel they’re part of an inside joke, almost inviting them to share and trick friends, which fueled its rise.

This isn’t just a magic trick; it’s an interactive experience that viewers feel compelled to share.

5. Bella Poarch’s Lip-Sync to “M to the B” – 844.6 Million Views

Bella Poarch became a TikTok icon with her head-bopping, deadpan lip-sync to Millie B’s “M to the B.”

This video is deceptively simple yet addictively watchable, combining a catchy beat with a perfectly synchronized, hypnotic expression.

What made it blow up wasn’t just the song—it was Bella’s “don’t care” attitude, capturing the “vibe” so many TikTok users could relate to.

@bellapoarch To the #fyp ♬ M to the B – Millie B

The video’s massive views also highlight how TikTok allows personalities to break through in ways that traditional media might overlook, making it one of the app’s true “born on TikTok” successes.

6. Leah Halton’s Inverted Lip Sync – 923.5 Million Views

Leah Halton’s inverted filter lip-sync taps into TikTok’s obsession with creative filters and effects.

This video showcases her syncing to a popular tune while using the inverted filter, which has an almost hypnotic effect, adding layers of engagement.

@looooooooch Summer#Inverted ♬ Praise Jah In The Moonlight – YG Marley

TikTok users love novelty, and Leah’s choice of effect makes viewers curious to see how it enhances the song.

The video’s viral success speaks to TikTok’s ability to drive trends based on simple, user-friendly tools that make anyone feel like a creator.

7. Nyadollie’s Beauty Tutorial – 514.6 Million Views

Nyadollie’s beauty tutorial might seem like a regular makeup video, but it hits differently due to her unique charisma and dedication to showcasing melanin beauty.

TikTok users were drawn to her confidence and artistry, making it not just a tutorial but an empowering statement for inclusivity and representation.

@dollievision Makeup #melanin #fypageシ #fyp #blacktiktok #makeup #darkskin #fypシ #makeupvideos #makeupvideos #makeuptutorial ♬ Just the Two of Us – Grover Washington, Jr.

This video’s placement in the top 10 is also a nod to TikTok’s role in promoting beauty diversity, allowing creators from various backgrounds to shine.

8. Adorable Baby Laughing by Daexo – 401.5 Million Views

A laughing baby can brighten anyone’s day, and Daexo’s video of her baby’s infectious giggle is proof that heartwarming moments transcend language and cultural barriers.

This video speaks to the timeless appeal of pure joy, capturing the universal magic of laughter.

@daexo #foryou #baby ♬ original sound – Neep Fam

In a platform dominated by high-energy trends and effects, this clip’s simplicity offers a refreshing break, reminding us why we love candid, wholesome content.

9. Sorrel Horse Dancing to “Say It Right” – 456.4 Million Views

Sorrel Horse’s bathroom dance to Nelly Furtado’s “Say It Right” became a sensation, with viewers finding humor in his casual, unfiltered moves.

@jamie32bsh
♬ Say It Right – Sped Up Remix – Nelly Furtado & Speed Radio

This video shows that authenticity and spontaneity resonate just as much as polished content.

The relatable, almost goofy charm of this video made it a favourite, proving that sometimes the best TikToks are the ones where people are just having fun.

10. Jamie32bish Dancing to “Say It Right” – 448.3 Million Views

Jamie32bish’s TikTok to the same Nelly Furtado track became a viral moment thanks to its simplicity and, ironically, its ability to spark high-level engagement.

It’s been widely replicated by users who appreciated its accessible choreography and catchy beat.

@jamie32bsh
♬ Say It Right – Sped Up Remix – Nelly Furtado & Speed Radio

Like Sorrel Horse’s video, it captures the joy of dancing like no one’s watching—a reminder that authenticity often trumps extravagance.

Why These Videos Work

Analyzing TikTok’s top videos reveals the power of relatability, clever use of effects, and universal themes.

Whether it’s Zach King’s mind-bending illusions or Bella Poarch’s catchy head-bop, each video taps into a core emotion or experience that keeps viewers glued to the screen.

Conclusion

In the world of TikTok, creativity is king, and even the simplest ideas can become cultural phenomena.

The platform’s most-watched videos reflect TikTok’s range—from jaw-dropping illusions to feel-good moments—each one a reminder that in today’s digital age, connection and entertainment come in all forms.