Grace Eleanor Keeling, widely recognized by her online persona GK Barry, has captured audiences with her relatable content and down-to-earth charm. Born on August 12, 1999, in Cambridge, England, her childhood included unique experiences abroad.
She spent several years in the British Virgin Islands before returning to England at age eight. Grace later attended Nottingham Trent University, where she earned a degree in film studies followed by a master’s in digital marketing.
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Career Beginnings
Grace’s initial steps in the entertainment industry began during her university years. Her roles included production work on the BBC soap opera Doctors, video creation for ShawMind and Nottinghamshire Police, rebranding initiatives with Nottingham Women’s Centre, and on-set assistance for the Netflix film Hood. These experiences honed her media skills and set the stage for her future success online.
Rise to Fame on TikTok
GK Barry’s social media journey took off in 2020 when she began posting lifestyle videos on TikTok amid the COVID-19 lockdown. Combining her initials with a friend’s last name for anonymity, her @gkbarry account quickly grew a massive following. Her mix of humour, honesty, and everyday stories resonated with audiences, and within a year, she had reached 1 million followers. Today, her following on TikTok has soared to over 3.5 million, and her YouTube channel attracts 11 million monthly views.
Podcasting Success
In April 2022, Grace launched her popular podcast Saving Grace, where she interviews many celebrities. Her approachable and candid style has made the podcast a hit, leading to sold-out live tours across the UK in 2024.
Expanding to Television
Grace’s career has expanded to include television appearances on popular British shows. Her credits include:
- Love Island: Aftersun (February 2023)
- CelebAbility (July 2023)
- The Wheel (BBC One)
- The Weakest Link (BBC One)
- Don’t Look Down for Stand Up to Cancer (Channel 4, October 2023)
In August 2024, she made headlines as the youngest panellist on ITV’s Loose Women, showcasing her growing influence and crossover appeal.
Authenticity and Connection with Fans
Grace’s authenticity and humour have made her a standout in the social media world. She openly shares her personal journey, discussing topics like mental health and life’s everyday challenges, which resonates deeply with her audience. Her “realness” sets her apart, offering fans a refreshingly honest look at life behind the screen.
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Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.