Meet Katie Kennedy: The TikTok Star Dishing Out History’s Juiciest Gossip
Is it true that Marie Antoinette had an inappropriate relationship with her son? Did Charles II really invent dogging? These scandalous historical inquiries are just a few of the titillating topics tackled by 25-year-old Katie Kennedy, the mastermind behind the popular TikTok account The History Gossip. If you’re seeking a fresh take on history that’s both snappy and sassy, look no further!
A New Kind of Historian
With over 683,000 followers and videos racking up 5.9 million views, Kennedy isn’t just another content creator; she’s a sensation! Recently recognized by TikTok as one of its ‘2025 Creators to Watch’, she also published a book aptly titled History Gossip, filled with tantalizing tidbits from centuries past. But what makes her approach so captivating?
Diving into Authenticity
Striking a balance between education and entertainment, Kennedy found success through her off-the-cuff, gossipy style. Her early videos were marked by a more formal tone, earning her a mere three views, while her current, more personality-driven approach has skyrocketed her popularity. “I just press ‘record’ and see what happens,” she shares—an approach that invites spontaneity and excitement into her storytelling.
Not Just a TikTok Star – A Scholar in the Making
Currently pursuing postgraduate studies in 18th-century history at Oxford, Kennedy’s university experience adds an intriguing layer to her story. “When I first posted videos in late 2023, I was so embarrassed that I blocked everyone I knew at university,” she admits. However, her content gained traction quickly, leading friends to reach out in surprise and support.
“A bit surreal,” she describes the experience, acknowledging that even her academic supervisor is proud enough to alert her when he sees her book in stores like Waterstones.
Crafting Content with a Purpose
When discussing her creative process, Kennedy emphasizes the importance of reliable sources. “I always include references in my captions because there’s so much misinformation online.” This commitment to accuracy sets her apart in a world overflowing with noise and speculation.
Details like these contribute to the depth of her content, especially when she tackles hot-button topics like Anne of Cleves and her perceived unattractiveness in Henry VIII’s court. Kennedy’s opinion? Henry VIII was the ugly one.
The Power of History on Social Media
Concerned readers might balk at the notion of TikTok as an educational platform. Yet Kennedy argues, “People are scrolling anyway, so they might as well walk away with something valuable.” Her fascination with history ignited with childhood favorites like the Horrible Histories books, which merged humor with historical facts.
Inspired by the World
Kennedy’s love for history has been supported by her family, who would often take her to National Trust houses. While she might have preferred video games at the time, the foundations for her future were undeniably laid. Recent travels to Versailles and Rome offer her endless content inspiration, and she even experiences moments of recognition when out in public.
Launching a Writing Career
The idea for her book emerged unexpectedly when agents began sliding into her DMs, intrigued by her unique voice and approach to history. After selecting an agent and crafting a proposal, she managed to write the book in a whirlwind: starting right after finishing her undergraduate dissertation and completing it just before freshers’ week at Oxford.
Looking Ahead: More to Come
Kennedy has set her sights on writing another book while launching her Sky History YouTube series, History Crush. However, she humorously notes the cultural differences affecting her American audience: “I worried that Americans wouldn’t understand my accent, and sometimes they request subtitles!”
Get Your Copy!
The History Gossip: Was Anne Of Cleves A Minger? And 365 Other Historical Curiosities by Katie Kennedy is available from Michael O’Mara Books for £14.99. For a limited time, you can grab it for just £12.74 at mailshop.co.uk/books with free UK P&P on orders over £25.
Katie Kennedy is redefining how we consume history, one TikTok at a time. Her modern approach not only sparks curiosity but encourages us all to engage with the past in ways that resonate with our lives today. So, are you ready to dive into history’s hottest gossip?
