TikTok consumer ‘Drunk Wine Man’ reveals secret to success

A retired shipyard worker made TikTok famous during the lockdown and received millions of views worldwide.

Russell Palmer, better known for his Russpal59 TikTok handle or as “Drunk Wine Guy”, has amassed more than 118,000 followers during his time on the social media platform.

The 61-year-old from Barrow said he had just started making the videos to enjoy himself.

But he quickly became revered worldwide for his character “Drunk Wine Guy”, where he dubbed songs with a glass of “wine” in hand, which is actually Vimto.

“One of the first videos I made was ‘Islands in the Stream’ and it got over a million views on TikTok,” said the former shipyard engineer.

“I’ve received news from all over the world and it’s just my imitation with a glass of ‘wine’.

“It’s a very simple concept, but I have to reassure people it’s Vimto by the glass and I’ve actually been using the same bottle since the first lock. I don’t want to promote alcoholism or anything like that.

“I try other videos, like soccer, but people seem to like this character, they get the most views.”

The social media platform is widely viewed as the younger demographic, but the Sowerby Avenue resident said “the oldies are taking over.”

He said a lot of people his age are going to be a big hit on the app, with names like Anthony Hopkins, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tom Jones all getting involved.

The amateur playwright admitted he hasn’t seen his retirement this way since stepping down from the yard, but instead vows to keep going as long as his fans enjoy its content.

“I like making people laugh and making faces smile,” said Palmer.

“If we can do that in these times, that’s all I need.”

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