Jeffree Star

Jeffree Star is an American makeup artist, entrepreneur, and singer-songwriter who has developed a highly recognizable personal brand in the beauty industry. Bustle described Star as a musician and onetime MySpace celebrity who transitioned into the YouTube makeup tutorial space, highlighting his adaptability and business acumen. After high school, Star legally changed his name and supported himself through various makeup, modeling, and music jobs in Los Angeles, often working as a personal makeup artist for celebrities at Hollywood clubs.

By 2006, Star became the most followed person on MySpace, leveraging the platform to build an audience around his bold aesthetic and candid personality. Star's music career began with the release of the studio album "Beauty Killer," which included songs such as "Lollipop Luxury," featuring a remix with Nicki Minaj. The album reached the top 10 on Billboard's Top Electronic Albums chart. Star promoted his music through several world tours before leaving the music industry due to legal issues involving the label's owner. In a docuseries by Shane Dawson, Star stated that the end of his music career left him financially strained, prompting him to use his remaining savings to start a makeup brand.

Star founded Jeffree Star Cosmetics, launching with a collection of velour liquid lipsticks, followed by highlighter palettes, lip scrubs, eyeshadow palettes, clothing, and accessories. The company has been estimated to generate $100 million in annual sales, with all products being vegan and cruelty-free. Forbes reported that Star earned $18 million from his YouTube channel, making him one of the highest-paid YouTubers. Star promoted his brand through YouTube, amassing millions of subscribers and billions of views, which contributed to the success of his cosmetics business.

Star's entrepreneurial activities extend beyond cosmetics. He collaborated with Shane Dawson to launch the "Conspiracy Collection," a makeup line that achieved significant sales and set records within the beauty industry. Star's life and business have been the focus of two documentary web series: "The Secret World of Jeffree Star" and "The Beautiful World of Jeffree Star," both created by Shane Dawson, which together garnered over 130 million views.

Star later relocated to Casper, Wyoming, where he trademarked "Star Yak Ranch" and began selling yak meat, eventually opening a retail location offering both cosmetics and packaged yak meat products. Star also released a 15 Year Anniversary edition of the album "Beauty Killer," featuring a new cover, three new songs, and remastered tracks. Despite controversies, Star has had a lasting impact on the beauty industry, influencing gender expression and inclusivity in cosmetics.