Keith Lee Reflects On His TikTok Journey Ahead Of Possible Ban

Keith Leethe beloved food critic and viral influencer, recently reflected on his remarkable online journey as the possibility of a return to the United States. TikTok the ban is looming.

From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted voice for small businesses and TikTok users, Lee shared how the app transformed his life and allowed him to connect with millions of people around the world. And in true Lee fashion, he expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped make his dream a reality.

As TikTok users in the United States anxiously wait to see if the app will stay on or disappear on Sunday, January 19, many content creators are bidding farewell to the app, just in case.

For viral TikToker Lee reminiscing and taking a little trip down memory lane to share some of the good times was his way of saying goodbye to TikTok and all his followers if the app goes dark.

“All the news going around TikTok, I think it’s time to talk about it. So let’s talk about it,” he began his video. “I just want to start by saying that if it’s not real and we’re here after the 19th, it doesn’t matter, this message still stands. This community, and when I say community, I don’t say that lightly , changed my whole life.

He continued his video by explaining that “countless, many families’ lives have been impacted.” He then listed some of the people he was able to help with his food reviews.

Lee cited some of the heartwarming stories he was able to help create.

“A lady who was a teacher for 20 years was able to retire after 24 hours of revision,” he explained. “A husband and father who dreamed of owning a restaurant was diagnosed with tongue cancer right after he got his restaurant. Before he passed away, he was able to see his restaurant thrive, something he dreamed of his whole life. “

Her list continued to shout about the owner of a banana pudding store in Texas and how she was able to open a second store. Lee also talked about the Vegas pizzeria that was “on the verge of closing, literally a week away from closing” and how it’s still open two and a half years later. He also said Cleo’s in Chicago “went from one location to three.”

“And those are just the five that came to mind. That’s more than hundreds,” he continued. “It’s a mission that I believe in with all my heart, God has entrusted me with, and nothing and no one will stop me from doing it.”

Lee said that no matter what happens with an app, “we’re on your side.” He reminded his followers that his name is the same on every other social media, and shared that he had “some huge news” that he couldn’t “get into yet.”

As with all of Lee’s videos, his loyal followers jumped into the comments section to share their support, gratitude, and love for everything he does.

“You have changed so many lives with this app. I pray we can continue to see you make a difference,” one viewer wrote. Another said: “Thank you Keith. God has used your gift of communication and compassion to help people. This is what our lives are about: using our gifts and testimonies to help and bless others. This is a true community.”

Another viewer added: “You are the good people of TikTok making a difference in the world.”

Many others wondered if Lee would move to RedNote in the future, although he has yet to respond.

Lee, 28, recently opened up to PEOPLE about how the app helped him deal with anxiety and depression. He explained that his reviews not only help restaurants and small business owners, but also himself.

Comparing a video from when he was 18 to today, he attributed the differences to TikTok.

“I think TikTok played a pivotal role in this, as well as the people at TikTok,” he said. “I will be forever grateful to them.”

He also credits his family, his wife Ronni and their children Karter and Riley, for helping him overcome his seasonal depression and anxiety.

“Without them, I don’t think I would be able to do as much or have as many tools to improve,” he shared.

On Friday, Lee took to TikTok to share a throwback video to show how far he’s come through the app.

The video shows Lee preparing dinner for his wife while she was caring for their baby. He responded to the comment “Why you cook, why can’t mother help you” with a “teachable moment” where he can “drop some knowledge”.

It didn’t take long for viewers to fill up the comments section.

“It all started because someone hated the comments? Look how it took off, wow!!” one person wrote. Another added: “We made the right person famous…God bless you Keith!!”

And the love and support doesn’t stop there.

“Amazing growth. Grateful for your faith and hard work,” one person shared. Another said: “Thanks for being here with us, Keith, and thanks for all the amazing content.”