Is James Charles A-List?
No — James Charles is currently ranked D tier — a minor public figure with limited fame outside a small audience.
Reached A-list in 2018
YouTube Channel Reaches Peak Popularity
Lost A-list status in 2019
Dropped to B tier — Tati Westbrook Feud Goes Nuclear
Ranking Timeline
First Male CoverGirl Ambassador
Became CoverGirl's first male brand ambassador at age 17, making major beauty industry waves. The groundbreaking deal launched him into mainstream consciousness and established him as a beauty influencer pioneer.
YouTube Channel Reaches Peak Popularity
Grew to over 16 million YouTube subscribers with highly produced makeup tutorials and celebrity collaborations. His technical skills and personality made him one of beauty YouTube's biggest stars with massive influence.
Tati Westbrook Feud Goes Nuclear
Mentor Tati Westbrook posted viral 'Bye Sister' video accusing him of betrayal and predatory behavior, causing him to lose millions of subscribers overnight. The public feud dominated social media and permanently damaged his reputation.
Rebounds After Tati Apologizes
Tati admitted some allegations were based on lies, allowing him to regain some subscribers and credibility. While not fully vindicated, the apology provided enough cover for him to continue his career.
New Grooming Allegations Surface
Multiple underage boys accused him of sending inappropriate messages, sparking another major scandal. Though he denied wrongdoing, the pattern of accusations made sponsors wary and audiences uncomfortable.
YouTube Views Plummet Significantly
His video views dropped from millions to hundreds of thousands as audience lost interest and trust. Repeated controversies created fatigue, and the beauty community largely moved past him to newer creators.
Continues Content to Diminished Audience
Still posts regularly but generates little engagement or cultural relevance compared to peak years. Once beauty YouTube's biggest male star, he's now largely forgotten, unable to escape the shadow of multiple scandals.
Last updated: February 23, 2026