TikTok creators spill their secrets in final moments before the app's comeback

TikTok's brief shutdown prompted creators to share their confessions, but the app is now back after Trump intervened.

On January 18, 2025, TikTok users in the United States faced an unexpected blackout as the app was temporarily shut down due to the ongoing US TikTok ban discussions. 

But, in an unexpected twist, the app is back online after just a brief hiatus, with service resuming less than 24 hours later.

The shutdown came amid mounting tension over the future of TikTok, with US lawmakers pushing for a nationwide ban. The app, which boasts over 170 million American users, displayed a pop-up message explaining the situation, urging users to stay tuned as former President Trump vowed to intervene and work toward a solution. As promised, TikTok was restored with a statement from the platform thanking Trump for his efforts to secure its return.

While the app was down, US-based creators took to the trend of spilling their secrets. Influencers like Meredith Duxbury, Kaeli Mae, and Serena Kerrigan used a viral Family Guy audio clip to confess truths to their followers. Duxbury admitted to partially wiping off the excessive foundation she had showcased in viral beauty videos, while Kerrigan revealed her use of weight-loss drug Monjauro, which she had previously denied.

@meredithduxbury

or did i?

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@serenakerrigan

my body my choice 💅🏼

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@kaelimaee

had to get this off my chest if we really going out HAHAHAHA IM SORRRYYY

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Some creators used the shutdown period to share deeper personal truths. DJ Xandra Pohl confirmed the rumors surrounding her breakup, announcing that her boyfriend had cheated on her. Meanwhile, TikToker Charli D’Amelio joined in on the trend with a playful twist.In a video following the same format, D’Amelio poked fun at her own fame, captioning it, “I still don’t get the hype either, tbh.”

@charlidamelio

 

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@brookeschofield1

 

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Now that TikTok is back, creators are flooding the platform with celebratory content, many using the viral "hey" known for its hilariously awkward vibe, became the go-to trend for influencers to confess secrets or poke fun at themselves.

@kaelimaee

ice cube lady🫡 WE ARE BACK BABYYYYYY👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 #tiktok #tiktokback #joke

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@scoobiezoobie

I KNEW THE TRIAPOD VIDEO WAS FAKE

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@sarahklait

Well this is awkward…. #influencer #influencersbelike

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With TikTok’s future uncertain, users are cautiously optimistic about its comeback, hoping the app will remain a space for creativity and self-expression.