Creating a viral marketing video isn‘t easy, but it isn’t impossible. Furthermore, viral video marketing doesn't always require a big-budget video since more and more consumers are starting to value authenticity over staged content.
If you want to go viral in 2025 but aren‘t sure how, you’ve come to the right blog. Here are some of my favorite viral marketing videos and why they were such a success.
And if, by the end of this list, you still doubt your ability to create viral content, remember that HubSpot's Clip Creator is a free AI-powered video creator that can help you create memorable marketing videos regardless of your skill level.
9 Viral Video Examples
1. Cecred
Views: 2.1 million
Megacelebrity Beyonce released her new line of hair care products called Cecred, and her marketing was very Gen Z-coded.
Instead of glossy, highly produced videos of models flaunting shiny, beautiful hair and bouncy curls, Beyonce took her phone and filmed herself using the products. She then took viewers through her wash day routine and explained the products she uses.
So, what makes it Gen-Z coded? It's an authentic and unpolished marketing approach that younger consumers often prefer. Studies show that 62% of Gen Z consumers prefer brands that create authentic and relatable content.
Beyonce is also known for being a private person who rarely gives fans a glimpse into her personal life, so a video of her candidly sharing her haircare routine feels exclusive.
55% of Gen Z say brands are more appealing when they create exclusive content like behind-the-scenes videos or tutorials.
What I like: For one, Beyonce is speaking directly to her fans. And if you're a member of the BeyHive like I am, then you know how rare that is.
2. Duolingo
Views: 8.1 million
Duolingo has viral marketing videos down to a science on TikTok. It feels like every time I log in to the app, a new Duolingo video is viral, with millions of views and likes.
The language learning company's secret is that it always has a pulse on trending topics and what its audience says about the brand.
For example, Dress to Impress is a popular multi-player dress-up video game created by Roblox. The game is popular among streamers and gamers, and Dress to Impress tutorials and playthroughs often go viral on TikTok.
A common joke among Duolingo users is that the language learning app is pretty consistent and playfully aggressive when it comes to reminding users to log in and learn.
So, Duolingo posted a TikTok of its mascot's avatar floating through the game and jokingly captioned that the glammed-up bird is on its way to remind users not to break their learning streak.
What I like: Duolingo's approach to video marketing shows the brand has tapped into what its audience is saying and the biggest trends. So, in your own quest for virality, listen closely to what your audience is saying about you and try to tie it into a popular trend.
3. Scrub Daddy
Views: 30.7 million
I never thought a video about something as mundane as a sponge would make it in my top 10 favorite viral marketing videos, yet Scrub Daddy is here. This video went viral on TikTok in 2023, and it's easy to see why.
The video features a humorous yet relatable script that doesn't sound overly rehearsed, giving the TikTok an air of authenticity.
It also explains how the product works and answers a frequently asked question from consumers: “Why is my Scrub Daddy Damp Duster dry when left out in the open?”
What I like: Scrub Daddy injects just the right amount of humor to keep this video engaging while still showing and explaining how the product works.
4. REM Beauty
Views: 1.8 million
Though I‘m a huge Ariana Grande fan, I promise I’m not being biased when I say the film Wicked and Grande‘s R.E.M. Beauty had one of the best collaborative marketing campaigns I’ve seen.
Although this TikTok is only 16 seconds long, it is still effective video marketing because it shows Ariana Grande speaking authentically and passionately about the Wicked-inspired R.E.M.
Beauty palette. Grande doesn't sound rehearsed and even shows how the product appears on her skin.
What I like: Ariana Grande is the founder of R.E.M. Beauty and one of the stars of Wicked, and this video ties her passion for both projects together while appealing to different consumers, from Ariana stans to Wicked lovers to makeup users.
5. City Pups - Jeremy, the Manager
Views: 1.8 million
Jeremy is a stern-faced black cat who “manages” City Pups, a pet store in New York City. Employees at City Pups film Jeremy's day-to-day shenanigans and dub the video over with an AI-generated British voice relaying sarcastic quips.
The cat has become so popular that people from around the world visit City Pups to meet the furry manager and often leave with a new puppy.
What I like: Well, I just love cats, so it‘s inevitable that I’d love Jeremy‘s videos. That said, videos like the one above are excellent because they’re funny, clever, and feature candid shots of the business and customers.
6. Gibson Guitar - Jason Mamoa
Likes: 74,700+
I predict celebrity marketing will still be profitable in 2025, even as influencer marketing continues to rise, and this video supports my theory. Actor Jason Momoa of Game of Thrones and Justice League fame helped score a viral moment on Instagram for the Gibson Guitar brand.
Momoa gifted his son, a guitarist and metal fan, a guitar handmade by the CEO of the iconic Gibson Guitar brand.
The process was documented on Instagram, and Momoa filmed the heartwarming moment when he finally got to give the one-of-a-kind instrument to his child.
What I like: Once again, I'm a sucker for authenticity and candid moments.
7. Deadpool and Kidpool Help SickKids
Views: 1.7 million
Speaking of celebrity marketing, Ryan Reynolds dawned his iconic Deadpool gear and teamed up with Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman) to promote the Sick Kids Foundation, a Canadian organization dedicated to the health and well-being of children.
The video surpassed 1 million views in just a few days.
What I like: The video uses Deadpool‘s signature humor to explain the organization’s purpose. It's also timely with its holiday-themed storyline. And, of course, it capitalizes on the huge fan base of celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Lynda Carter.
8. Anthropologie - #unwrapanthro
Views: 1.4 million
Anthropologie kicked off its holiday giveaway with a viral TikTok video announcing the event and how audiences could participate. The video is simple and features a voiceover accompanied by footage of Anthropologie employees happily wrapping holiday gifts to be sent to the giveaway winners.
What I like: Anthropologie‘s viral video shows that you don’t need a huge production or budget to make viral content. The video is straightforward and does a great job of explaining the giveaway and drumming up excitement.
9. Nike - Vinicius Junior
While I‘m not into sports, I love watching videos of athletes being silly and having fun. So it’s no surprise I really enjoyed this viral Nike video of Brazillian soccer player Vinicius Junior dancing in his Nike cleats.
What I like: This viral video is a great example of thinking outside the box.
Instead of showing Vinicius Junior using the shoes in a soccer match or showcasing his skills as an athlete, the brand tapped into Vinicius' unique personality and culture to create a one-of-a-kind advert that shows the comfort and durability of Nike products.
So, what have we learned? Well, in this current age of video marketing, it's less about glossy, highly stylized images and more about authenticity, humor, and clear messaging. Keep this in mind as you create your next viral hit. Good luck!
Editor's Note: This post was originally published in September 2010 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.