Elle Janette Mills, known as ElleOfTheMills on YouTube, is a celebrated former Canadian vlogger whose career has been marked by significant achievements and a strong connection with her audience. She gained widespread recognition in 2018 when she won the “Breakout YouTuber” category at the 10th Shorty Awards, a testament to her impactful presence in the digital landscape. Her engaging content, often likened to the films of John Hughes, resonated with viewers, particularly her coming-of-age narratives that captured the essence of youth and identity.
Mills began her YouTube journey in 2017, starting with a modest following of 15,000 subscribers. However, her channel experienced explosive growth after her relatable and heartfelt videos went viral. Notably, her November 2017 coming out video, where she shared her bisexuality, was pivotal in surpassing the one million subscriber milestone by February 2018. This moment not only showcased her authenticity but also solidified her role as a voice for the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to her YouTube success, Mills signed with Fullscreen in June 2017, which led to her first-ever tour in 2018, further expanding her reach and influence. By the end of 2017, she had amassed over 915,000 subscribers, and her partnership with United Talent Agency in December 2018 marked another significant step in her professional journey, allowing her to explore new creative avenues.
In 2023, Mills announced her transition from YouTube to a full-time career in writing and directing, as detailed in her New York Times essay. This new chapter reflects her commitment to storytelling and her desire to explore different mediums, promising exciting contributions to the creative industry in the years to come.