If you think posting videos on YouTube can’t net you a worthwhile career — or superstardom — you better think again.

To go along with our report regarding what the top stars on YouTube earn on a monthly basis, Variety has commissioned a new survey amongst young Americans, aged 13-18, asking who they find more popular — and the answer may just surprise you.

The poll indicates that the five most influential figures among these teens are all YouTube stars, a big surprise considering that superstars like Seth Rogen and Jennifer Lawrence were on the list. The online comedy team of Smosh topped the list, with Ian Andrew Hecox and Anthony Padilla being the most recognized on the list.

The Fine Bros., Benny and Rafi, followed closely behind in second place, while Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg, aka PewDiePie, was in third place.

While some celebrities made the list, the top one was a real surprise — Paul Walker, the 40-year old actor who died in a car accident late last year while filming the seventh chapter in the Fast & Furious movie franchise.

The survey focused on 1,500 respondents, asking how 20 well-known personalities fared with approachability, authenticity and other criteria. That may explain why YouTube personalities topped more of the popular celebrities out there, due to their “down-to-Earth” tone with posting videos and making personable content — something Smosh, PewDiePie and The Fine Bros. are no strangers to.

Celebrities that did manage to round out the top 10, besides Walker, included Jennifer Lawrence at number 7, Katy Perry at number 9, and Steve Carell at number 10. The most surprising entry on the list was 87-year old Betty White, who clocked in at number 12. It appears this Golden Girl is still quite popular with the teen crowd.

What do you think Have YouTube stars become the next big celebrities out there Are their places on this list justified

Source: Variety