WILLIAM WHITE

And the wink seen
around the world

William White

Photographs by Maya Fuhr @mayafuhr

For some, a smile says a thousand words, but for 21-year-old TikToker William White, a wink says it all — just ask his 1.8 million followers.

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Imagine if your 90s sitcom crush showed up at your door with the ultimate mixtape. That’s the effect William White creates in less than 60 seconds. This Canadian TikTok phenom lip-syncs golden oldies and has become the internet’s new heartthrob. We caught up with him between decade-hopping videos to chat about his throwback style.

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♬ Old Time Rock & Roll - Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
William White in a grey knit sweater, jacket in navy and dark wash jeans
William’s wearing JACK & JONES crewneck & overshirt, SUSTAINABLE ICONS coat and ROLLAS denim

What inspired you to start lip-syncing on TikTok?

I saw some creators, like lil muddy, doing trends and I thought I could do my own thing and lip sync and make my own videos.

You may be young but your music taste is that of an old soul - what first attracted you to 70s, 80s, 90s music?

My parents would play oldies and I really liked the music, so I decided to use the music in my TikToks. I love the flow of older music. It really touches the heart.

With all your lip-syncing skills, you must be great at karaoke. What’s your go-to song?

My go-to song is definitely Mandy by Barry Mannilow. I know all the lyrics and I get into it whenever I hear it play.

William White working out in a grey sweatsuit
William’s wearing a KUWALLA TEE t-shirt
William White wearing a mauve t-shirt and holding a mini basketball

Did you plan to have your wink be your signature? Or was it spontaneous and took on a mind of its own?

“The wink was spontaneous and…took on a life of its own.”

Your fans go crazy for your retro style. What do you consider your signature, must-have piece?

I love old school hockey jerseys.

Does your retro sensibility show through when it comes to your space? Any chance of an 80s-style futon or a record player?

I’d definitely like a record player. I’ve received a few classic vinyls that would be great to be able to play.

Your look has been compared to several classic TV stars. What famous TV show home would you most like to live in?

I’d live in Joey’s apartment from Friends. I love the chill vibe.

Have any tips on how your fans can create their own signature move?

Just be yourself and it will all come together.

William White in a tan knit sweater, flannel overshirt, puffer vest in green and light wash jeans
William’s wearing a BLACK BROWN 1826 crewneck, NATIVE YOUTH overshirt, NOIZE coat and ROLLAS denim

And just for fun...

  • Do you have a favourite M&M colour?
  • No, I love them all equally.
  • If you could meet a famous person, who would it be?
  • I would like to meet Matt Damon, he’s a beauty.
  • Your go-to pizza toppings?
  • Green peppers, bacon and pineapple.
  • When was the last time you laughed really hard, and what was it about?
  • The last time I laughed really hard was with my brother. We were not laughing about anything specific. Just having fun.
William White in a brown teddy jacket, colourblock sweater in red and pants in olive green
William’s wearing a NATIVE YOUTH coat, LEVI’S crewneck and SELECTED HOMME shirt & pants