Why is TikTok obsessed with Paloma Diamond’s fake Oscar story?
Paloma Diamond, a fictional character created by content creator Julian Sewell, has taken Hollywood by storm, blurring the lines between satire and reality.
Originally introduced on TikTok in 2023, Diamond has become a viral sensation, with media appearances and even a mock Oscar campaign that has fooled some casual viewers.
Sewell, a 29-year-old high school teacher-turned-content creator from New Zealand, crafted Paloma Diamond as a parody of Hollywood’s awards season. The character—a veteran actress with 20 Oscar nominations but no wins—was inspired by real-life industry legends like Cate Blanchett, Glenn Close, and Susan Lucci.
Paloma’s presence extends beyond TikTok, with interviews in major outlets like The Hollywood Reporter and Good Morning America. In a satirical interview, Diamond expressed heartbreak over her lack of Academy Award wins, questioning why she has been continuously "snubbed." She even addressed a fictional rivalry with actress Lorelai Lynch, subtly shading her absence from this year’s Oscar race.
@juliansewell The people have spoken! #palomadiamond #lorelailynch #oscars #oscar #oscars2024 #hollywood #bestactress #film #movie #michellebradleyspencer #sashaalexander #daphnecortezon #lore #paloma #fyp
♬ original sound - Julian Sewell
@holdensmith962 SNUBBED #greenscreenvideo #popculture #fyp #oscars2025 #oscars #palomadiamond #movienews #greenscreen
♬ Chill Vibes - Tollan Kim
Sewell, who now boasts over 2 million TikTok followers, admitted he never expected Paloma to gain such traction. "I just kept up with the universe because that’s what people wanted," he told Vulture.
As the 97th Academy Awards approach, Paloma Diamond remains an internet obsession, proving that Hollywood loves a good underdog—even a fictional one.