RAY WILLIAM JOHNSON

Ray William Johnson is an American internet personality, comedian, actor, and musician who rose to prominence as one of YouTube's earliest and most influential creators. Born on August 14, 1981, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Johnson became widely recognized for his web series Equals Three (=3), where he provided humorous commentary on viral videos. His innovative approach to online entertainment has left a lasting impact on digital media.

🎓 Early Life and Education

Johnson grew up in Oklahoma City and graduated from Norman North High School in 1999. He later attended Columbia University in New York City, studying history with the initial aim of pursuing a law degree. During his college years, he began experimenting with video blogging, laying the groundwork for his future in online content creation.

📺 Rise to YouTube Stardom

In 2009, Johnson launched the Equals Three series on his YouTube channel, where he reviewed and commented on viral videos with a comedic twist. The show quickly gained popularity, and by 2011, his channel became the first on YouTube to reach 5 million subscribers. At its peak, Equals Three was among the most-watched and subscribed channels on the platform. 

In 2012, after a dispute with Maker Studios over contract terms, Johnson left the network and established his own production company, Equals Three Studios. He continued to produce content, including new web series such as Booze Lightyear, Comedians On, and Top 6. 

🎶 Musical Ventures: Your Favorite Martian

Beyond video commentary, Johnson explored music through the creation of Your Favorite Martian (YFM), a virtual band that released animated music videos blending humor and satire. Launched in 2009, YFM gained a substantial following before going on hiatus in 2012. The project was revived in 2022, introducing new songs and animations to a fresh audience. 

🎬 Acting and Other Projects

Johnson expanded into acting and production, starring in the indie film Who's Driving Doug (2016) alongside RJ Mitte. He also created the web series Riley Rewind, which premiered on Facebook in 2013. Additionally, he developed a television concept that was purchased by FX, showcasing his versatility beyond YouTube. 

💖 Personal Life

In his personal life, Johnson began dating Kelly Farrell in 2016. The couple married in May 2022, celebrating their second anniversary in 2024.  Johnson has been open about his decision not to have children, discussing it candidly with his audience. 

📱 Current Endeavors and Legacy

As of 2025, Johnson continues to engage audiences through various platforms, including YouTube and TikTok, where he shares comedic sketches and commentary. His pioneering work in online video content has influenced countless creators and helped shape the landscape of digital entertainment.