Creators on Screen: Which Influencers Are Breaking Into OTT?

If the last decade was about influencers conquering Instagram and YouTube, this one is about them stepping onto bigger stages. The creator-to-OTT pipeline is officially here, and it’s changing India’s entertainment landscape. What began as short, snappy, and relatable content is now finding its place in scripted series, films, and documentaries on streaming platforms.

OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar have become fertile grounds for digital-first talent. With millions of followers already invested in their personalities, creators bring something traditional casting often can’t – an inbuilt, loyal audience that’s eager to see them in new roles.

From Skits to Scripts

For years, creators honed their craft through sketches, vlogs, and relatable reels. They learned timing, storytelling, and how to hook an audience within seconds. While acting in a six-episode series is very different from lip-syncing to a trending audio, this training ground gave them something priceless: adaptability. Now, streaming platforms are taking notice, giving them the opportunity to prove their skills in longer formats.

The Creators Making the Leap

• Prajakta Koli (MostlySane)
  One of the earliest and most successful crossovers, Prajakta went from YouTube relatability to Netflix stardom with Mismatched. She also appeared in Dharma Productions’ Jug Jug Jeeyo, proving her versatility as both a digital creator and mainstream actor.
• Bhuvan Bam
  A true trailblazer, Bhuvan didn’t just act – he built worlds. His series Dhindora on YouTube blurred the line between creator content and full-fledged OTT-style production. He later headlined Disney+ Hotstar’s Taaza Khabar, cementing himself as a legitimate actor and storyteller.
• Kusha Kapila
  From viral sketches to starring in Masaba Masaba and Thank You For Coming, Kusha embodies the influencer-turned-actor narrative. Her ability to transition seamlessly between comedy and drama makes her one of the most exciting creator talents in OTT.
• Viraj Ghelani
  Known for his “guy next door” relatability and comedic timing, Viraj has moved beyond reels with appearances in films like Jawan and is now exploring OTT opportunities. His rise signals how creators are no longer confined to being “funny internet personalities” but evolving into multi-format entertainers.
• Aditya Thakare
  Part of the Gen Z creator wave, Aditya made his Bollywood debut with Dhadak 2 and is eyeing OTT projects next. His trajectory shows how platforms are increasingly scouting younger digital stars who resonate with online-first audiences.

Why OTT Loves Creators

Streaming platforms thrive on fresh, authentic voices- and creators have built their careers on exactly that. They don’t just act; they engage. Unlike conventional actors, influencers are already skilled in audience interaction, brand-building, and cultivating loyal fanbases. For platforms competing in an overcrowded OTT market, casting creators is also a smart marketing move: audiences are naturally curious to see their favourite digital stars experiment in longer formats.

Challenges of the Transition

That said, moving from short-form skits to scripted drama isn’t always smooth. Many creators face skepticism about whether they can carry nuanced roles or sustain attention across a series. Success in OTT requires breaking free from their “online persona” and embracing characters that may look nothing like their digital selves. Training, adaptability, and patience will be key for creators looking to make a lasting mark.

The Future of Influencers in OTT

The future looks promising. Beyond rom-coms and light comedies, creators are likely to branch into thrillers, reality formats, and even docuseries. Imagine a travel vlogger fronting a Netflix travel reality show or a food creator starring in a culinary docu-drama. As boundaries blur further, we’re entering an era where the next breakout OTT star may just be the same person who once made you laugh during a midnight scroll on Instagram.

Final Take

The rise of creators in OTT isn’t just a passing trend – it’s a cultural shift. Digital fame is no longer a side hustle; it’s a legitimate launchpad into mainstream entertainment. And for viewers, it means discovering talent that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. As OTT platforms and influencers continue to collaborate, one thing is certain: the screen may be bigger now, but the relatability remains the same.