Russell Franke Age, Early Life, Career, Controversy [2024]

Russell Franke is a young YouTube sensation who has captured the hearts of millions. Known for his charming presence on the popular family channel “8 Passengers,” Russell is one of six children featured in the videos. Born into a family of YouTubers, Russell’s life has been documented extensively, making him a well-known figure among fans of family vlogs. This article delves into his early life, career, net worth, and what the future might hold for this young star.

Table of Contents

Who is Russell Franke?

Russel Franke is the second youngest of six siblings in the Franke family. His parents, Kevin and Ruby Franke are the masterminds behind the “8 Passengers” YouTube channel, which chronicles their family’s daily lives.

Early Life and Background

Russell Franke was born on July 9, 2011, in Utah, USA. His birth sign is Cancer. His father, Kevin Franke, currently works as an assistant professor at Brigham Young University. Ruby Franke, his mother, is the driving force behind the “8 Passengers” channel, managing the content and ensuring that their family’s adventures are shared with the world. Russell’s siblings include Shari, Chad, Abby, Julie, and Eve.

Career Highlights

Russell Franke’s career began at a very young age, thanks to his family’s YouTube channel, “8 Passengers.” The channel was created by his mother, Ruby Franke, in January 2015. The primary goal was to document her pregnancy and the early life of their youngest child, Eve. However, the channel quickly grew to include the daily lives of all six Franke children, including Russell.

The first video, titled “The Making of Eve,” featured the entire family, with Russell making his debut as a toddler. Over time, the channel’s subscriber count grew steadily. Within nine months, “8 Passengers” had amassed 5,000 subscribers. By August 2017, the channel surpassed the one million subscriber milestone.

On “8 Passengers,” Russell is known for his cheerful demeanor and helpful nature. He often appears in videos showcasing the family’s day-to-day activities, including travels, pranks, challenges, and heart-to-heart conversations. One of his notable solo videos is “Russell’s Imaginary Friend,” which highlights his imaginative and playful side.

In addition to the main channel, Russell also has his own Instagram account, managed by his parents. With over 31,000 followers, Russell’s Instagram presence further cements his status as a young social media star.

Age

Russel Franke is 13 years old as of 2024. He was born on July 9, 2011, in Utah, USA.

Net Worth and Source of Income

Russell’s net worth is intertwined with the family’s overall financial success. It is estimated that the family’s collective net worth is around $2.5 million. This includes earnings from YouTube ad revenue, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. While Russell, being a minor, does not earn independently, his contributions to the channel are invaluable and have directly impacted its financial success.

Controversy

Russell Franke’s life, much like his family’s, hasn’t been free of challenges and controversies. One of the most notable incidents occurred in August 2021, involving a serious situation that brought significant attention to the family. Russell, at the age of 12, reportedly escaped from a family friend’s house where he was found in distressing conditions. The incident involved severe injuries and allegations of abuse, leading to legal actions against the involved parties. This situation highlighted the vulnerabilities that even public figures can face, especially young children.

While the incident in 2021 was a significant challenge, it also brought attention to the importance of child safety and responsible content creation. The Franke family’s experience serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with public life and the need for appropriate measures to protect young influencers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How old is Russell Franke?

Russell Franke was born on July 9, 2011, which makes him 13 years old as of 2024. He is the fifth child in the Franke family and has grown up in the public eye, with much of his life documented on the “8 Passengers” YouTube channel.

Who are Russell Franke’s parents?

Russell’s parents are Kevin and Ruby Franke. Kevin Franke is an academic with a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and serves as an assistant professor at Brigham Young University. Ruby Franke is the creator and manager of the “8 Passengers” YouTube channel, where she documents the daily lives of her family.

What is the net worth of Russell Franke?

While Russell himself is too young to have an independent net worth, the “8 Passengers” channel, which he is a significant part of, has contributed to the family’s estimated net worth of around $2.5 million. This wealth comes from YouTube ad revenue, sponsorships, and their online merchandise store.

Does Russell Franke have his own social media accounts?

Yes, Russell has his own Instagram account, which is managed by his parents. The account gives fans a closer look at his life and has garnered over 31,000 followers. His presence on Instagram complements his appearances on the “8 Passengers” YouTube channel.

Conclusion

Russell Franke, as a young member of the “8 Passengers” family, has already made a notable impact in the world of social media. His engaging presence on the family’s YouTube channel, combined with the support of his loving family, has set a strong foundation for his future endeavors. Despite the challenges and controversies that have come their way, the Franke family remains committed to providing relatable and entertaining content for their viewers.