Early life
Born on May 28, 1983, in Millersport, Ohio, Roman Atwood grew up in an environment that nurtured his creative instincts. He is the son of Curt Dale Atwood and Susan Atwood. Roman initiated his independent career with the production of a DVD series titled “The Nerd Herd,” which he sold during the 2006 Warped Tour. Until 2010, Atwood was involved in multiple film projects and commercials in Columbus, Ohio, before deciding to concentrate on comedy, his true passion. Consequently, he established the “Sketch Empire” YouTube channel.
Before gaining popularity on YouTube, Atwood was employed at his family’s rope manufacturing business, “Atwood Rope.” In 2001, he tied the knot with Shanna Riley, and they had a son, Noah Vaughn Atwood, on October 18, 2004. After discovering his wife’s infidelity with a friend while they were on a vacation in 2008, Atwood sought a divorce.
In 2013, he launched “Smile More,” his personal merchandise brand, selling items like T-shirts, hoodies, and bracelets. Atwood currently lives in his hometown with his wife, Brittney Smith-Atwood. Together, they have a son named Kane Alexander Atwood (born October 23, 2011) and a daughter named Cora Atwood (born July 16, 2017). Atwood and Smith first met at the wedding of his friend, Chase Gilroy, where Atwood served as the best man in 2008. Smith is the sister of Gilroy’s wife, Veronica. They started dating after the wedding, and Atwood proposed to Smith on April 30, 2018. They got married on July 27, 2018, in Maui, Hawaii.
Career
Roman Atwood’s career in the entertainment industry began with producing DVDs of his comedy sketches and selling them in his own online store. However, his breakthrough came when he started posting prank videos on his YouTube channel, “RomanAtwood,” in 2010. His signature blend of humor, unpredictability, and a dash of outrageousness earned him massive popularity on the platform.
In 2013, Atwood launched a second YouTube channel, “RomanAtwoodVlogs,” focusing on his daily life, sharing experiences with his family, and doing good deeds, like his ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ series. This channel quickly gained millions of subscribers, reflecting his appeal as a relatable and positive public figure.
Atwood also co-produced the comedy film “Natural Born Pranksters” in 2016, further cementing his status in the entertainment industry.
Here are some highlights from his YouTube career:
Plastic Ball Prank
In a video entitled “Plastic Ball Prank,” Atwood transformed his home into an enormous ball pit, filling it 2.5 feet deep with plastic balls. The video, uploaded on January 18, 2015, has received nearly 86 million views to date. Nissan took note of this video and offered him a 2015 Nissan GTR to include his video in their “WithDad” Super Bowl XLIX halftime commercial. This particular campaign was later honored as the best “Brand Campaign” at the 5th Streamy Awards.
Anniversary Prank
On November 20, 2013, Atwood uploaded a video named “Anniversary Prank Backfires!!”, which has gained over 86 million views to this day. The video portrays Atwood playing a prank on Smith on their fifth dating anniversary by admitting infidelity. However, Smith, noticing the camera beforehand, returns the prank by feigning an affair of her own. Her prank reveal comes after Atwood responds negatively for a few moments. By the video’s conclusion, Smith remarks, “I thought you were going to propose.”
Killing My Kid Prank
Atwood posted a prank video titled “Killing My Own Kid PRANK!!” on November 30, 2014, which has over 50 million views. The prank involves Atwood fooling Smith into thinking he had thrown their son Kane, dressed in a Spider-Man costume, but it was actually a mannequin. Smith, quickly discovering the truth, becomes visibly upset, as Atwood enters laughing. She leaves the room but returns when Atwood inquires, “Are you really that mad?” In response, she yells at him and insists that he will be “sleeping on the couch.” This prank was mentioned during the couple’s appearance on the reality TV series Tanked, where Smith confirmed Atwood did indeed sleep on the couch that night.
ATM Prank and Freedom of Expression Case
In March 2014, during a prank where Atwood pretended to rob an ATM in public, the Columbus Police Department arrested him and his accomplices for inciting panic and disorderly conduct. Following his release on bail and court summons, Atwood successfully defended his actions as artistic expression and free speech. His fans supported him throughout the trial, which ultimately resulted in a settlement.
Toilet Paper Prank
On March 15, 2015, Atwood uploaded a video named “INSANE Toilet Paper PRANK!!”, which now has over 20 million views. The prank involved Atwood and Howie Mandel’s son, Alex, covering Mandel’s house in toilet paper. Mandel later discussed the prank and his ensuing clean-up experience on an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Net Worth
As of 2023, Roman Atwood’s net worth is estimated to be around $14 million. The wealth is majorly accumulated from his YouTube career, comprising ad revenue, brand endorsem*nts, and merchandise sales. His net worth is also bolstered by the success of his film “Natural Born Pranksters” and his involvement in various entrepreneurial ventures.
Achievement
Atwood’s groundbreaking content and substantial influence have earned him multiple accolades over the years. He won the 5th Streamy Awards for “Best Prank Video” and was a recipient of the Diamond Play Button from YouTube for surpassing 10 million subscribers on his vlog channel.
Furthermore, Atwood has used his platform for philanthropy. His ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ series on YouTube has inspired millions to spread positivity and help others, emphasizing the social impact of his work.
