Internet stardom, few tales captivate the masses like that of the Island Boys—Franky and Alex Venegas, known as Flyysoulja and Kodiyakredd. Emerging from viral stardom to the rap scene, controversies, and a surge in their net worth, the Island Boys’ journey is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride through fame, feuds, and financial gains.
The Rise of the Island Boys
The Venegas brothers, born on July 16, 2001, faced early challenges, losing their father and navigating a tumultuous upbringing raised by their single mother. In their teenage years, they found themselves entangled in a web of criminal activities, resulting in eviction from their home at the age of 18. It was during a stint in jail for one of their offenses that they decided to pivot toward a new path—becoming rappers.
Their rise to prominence began with the viral sensation “I’m an Island Boy” in late 2021. The video, initially shared on Twitter, catapulted the brothers into internet stardom, showcasing their distinctive appearance—tattoos, vertical dreadlocks, and diamond teeth. The catchy tune became a meme on TikTok, where they accumulated millions of views under the moniker Flyysoulja.
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TikTok Triumph and Music Ventures
Capitalizing on their internet fame, the Island Boys delved into the music scene. The fully produced version of “I’m an Island Boy” and subsequent releases like EPs “Stardom” and “Life Been Good” in 2021 marked their foray into the music industry. The brothers evolved further, dropping studio albums like “17” and “Trendsetters” in 2022, demonstrating their ability to navigate the dynamic landscape of the entertainment world.
Their presence on TikTok remains formidable, boasting over seven million followers and amassing more than 150 million “likes.” However, the Island Boys’ musical endeavors have not been without challenges, as a performance at Miami’s Club LIV was met with mixed reviews.
Feuds and Controversies
The Island Boys’ journey isn’t just a symphony of success; it’s punctuated by feuds and controversies that have added layers to their narrative. Engaging in social media spats with the likes of Adam22, Blueface, Bryce Hall, and the Paul brothers, the Venegas twins haven’t shied away from online conflicts. Even celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Kevin Hart joined the fray, providing a backdrop of drama to their ascent.
Their involvement in reality television, including “Ultimate Social Boxing” and the documentary “Trolled: The Untold Island Boys Story,” shed light on both their personal and professional lives, amplifying the drama surrounding the duo.
Allegations and Army Marketing Missteps
The Island Boys faced serious allegations, including domestic abuse accusations against Franky by his girlfriend Montaisha Shanell in early 2022. The serious claims were aired on Instagram Live, leading to a storm of controversy around the brothers. A subsequent accusation involving Franky allegedly hitting his brother’s girlfriend added another layer to their tumultuous personal lives.
In a surprising twist, the duo found themselves at the center of a marketing controversy related to the US Army. A Cameo video endorsing the army caught the attention of the US Army Recruiting Command, leading to a statement clarifying that the Island Boys were not authorized or paid for their promotional efforts.
Connection to a Tragic Incident
In a chilling episode, the Island Boys’ Florida home became the focus of a police raid in early 2022, not due to their actions but because of their connection to Andrew James Thomas. A childhood friend, Thomas was arrested on the property about a drive-by shooting resulting in the tragic death of an eight-year-old girl. The Venegas brothers were not implicated, and Thomas faced charges, including first-degree murder.
Counting the Internet Coins
Amidst the controversies and the storm of public opinion, the Island Boys found an unexpected revenue stream—OnlyFans. Between May and July of 2023, the brothers raked in a whopping $389,000 from their OnlyFans endeavors, with a substantial chunk amassed in June 2023 alone.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, The Island Boys’ combined net worth now stands at a staggering $1 million.
As the Island Boys navigate the complex intersection of fame, fortune, and internet culture, their journey remains a dynamic and ever-unfolding saga. From viral sensations to rap artists, reality TV stars, and OnlyFans entrepreneurs, the Venegas brothers have etched their names into the annals of internet lore. As they continue to ride the waves of fame and controversy, one thing is certain—the Island Boys’ story is far from over, and the world watches with bated breath to witness the next chapter in this captivating odyssey.
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