Shayne Topp
A versatile comedian who helped steer the iconic Smosh brand into a new era, becoming the face of its sketch comedy for a generation.
Born 1991 (age 35)·American YouTuber and comedian·Birthday: September 14·Millennials
Biography
Shayne Topp didn't just join Smosh; he became its comedic engine during a pivotal chapter. After early acting gigs on Disney Channel's 'So Random!', he arrived at the YouTube collective in 2015, bringing a background in improv and a fearless commitment to the bit. As Smosh evolved from its founding duo, Topp's range—from exaggerated character work to genuine, vulnerable moments on the Smosh Mouth podcast—proved essential. He didn't just perform sketches; he helped define their modern voice, whether playing a hysterical customer service rep, a doomed boyfriend in 'Every Burger King Commercial', or himself in unscripted shows like 'Try Not To Laugh'. His work on 'The Goldbergs' showed his traditional sitcom chops, but it's his digital presence that cemented his place. Topp represents the bridge between Smosh's early internet fame and its current status as a mature, ensemble-driven comedy hub.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Shayne was born in 1991, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Shayne Was Born
The biggest hits of 1991
#1 Movie
Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Best Picture
The Silence of the Lambs
#1 TV Show
Cheers
Shayne's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1991Born
Soviet Union dissolves; World Wide Web goes public
Gas: $1.14/galHome: $82,400Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: George H.W. Bush"(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" — Bryan AdamsBest Picture: The Silence of the Lambs
1996Started school
Dolly the sheep cloned
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $99,700Min wage: $4.75/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Macarena" — Los del RioBest Picture: The English Patient
2004Became a teenager
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
Gas: $1.88/galHome: $157,300Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Yeah!" — UsherBest Picture: Million Dollar Baby
2007Could drive
iPhone released; Great Recession begins
Gas: $2.80/galHome: $172,600Min wage: $5.85/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Irreplaceable" — BeyonceBest Picture: No Country for Old Men
2009Could vote
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2012Turned 21
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Gas: $3.64/galHome: $143,200Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Somebody That I Used to Know" — GotyeBest Picture: Argo
2021Turned 30
January 6 Capitol breach; COVID vaccines roll out globally
Gas: $3.01/galHome: $298,900Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Joe Biden"Levitating" — Dua LipaBest Picture: CODA
2026Age 35 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Became a central cast member and writer for Smosh, contributing to its revival and sustained popularity.
- Co-hosts the 'Smosh Mouth' podcast, offering candid discussions that deepened fan connection with the brand.
- Played a recurring role as Matt Bradley on the long-running ABC sitcom 'The Goldbergs' for seven seasons.
- Starred in the indie film 'Dear Lemon Lima', which explored Alaskan Native culture and a youth academic competition.
Did You Know?
He is a trained improviser who studied at The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade theatres.
Topp is a huge fan of professional wrestling and has incorporated it into several Smosh sketches.
He voiced the character of 'Shayne' in the mobile game 'Smosh: The Game'.
He and fellow Smosh cast member Damien Haas are close friends and frequent collaborative partners.
“I'm not a psychopath, I'm just committed to the bit.”
