

A pioneering Asian-American digital creator who turned YouTube vlogs into a mainstream comedy career and a platform for representation.
Tim Chantarangsu, known for most of his career as Timothy DeLaGhetto, didn't just join the internet revolution—he helped shape its comedic voice. Starting on YouTube in the mid-2000s, his blend of self-deprecating humor, sharp rap parodies, and charismatic vlogging offered a fresh, relatable perspective rarely seen in media at the time. His channel became a hub for Asian-American youth, proving there was a massive audience hungry for authentic representation. This digital success catapulted him to television, most notably as a recurring cast member on Nick Cannon's improv show 'Wild 'N Out,' where he held his own as a quick-witted performer. Beyond sketch comedy, he pursued music under the name Traphik, further diversifying his creative portfolio. His career arc mirrors the evolution of online fame itself, from bedroom creator to a recognized face who paved the way for a generation of diverse content creators.
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.
Timothy was born in 1986, 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.
The biggest hits of 1986
#1 Movie
Top Gun
Best Picture
Platoon
#1 TV Show
The Cosby Show
The world at every milestone
Challenger disaster; Chernobyl nuclear meltdown
Soviet Union dissolves; World Wide Web goes public
Columbine shooting; Y2K panic builds
Euro currency enters circulation
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
iPhone released; Great Recession begins
Donald Trump elected president; Brexit vote
He is of Thai descent and often incorporates his heritage and experiences as an Asian-American into his comedy.
He was one of the first YouTube personalities to successfully transition to regular appearances on mainstream television.
He performed at the White House in 2016 for a Lunar New Year celebration during the Obama administration.
“I just wanted to make my friends laugh, and somehow it became a job.”