The viral YouTube star from the ‘David after Dentist’ video, now 25 years old, continues to draw recognition nearly two decades after his hilarious post-anesthesia ramblings captivated millions.
Iconic Viral Moment
David DeVore, a Florida resident, was just seven years old in 2009 when his father recorded his dazed reactions following a tooth extraction. The clip, featuring David’s bewildered questions like “Is this real life?” and “Why is this happening to me?”, exploded online, amassing 143 million views and earning a spot as one of YouTube’s earliest homemade viral hits.
David’s father captured the footage casually while his wife was away. After sharing it with friends and family, who reacted enthusiastically, he uploaded it to YouTube seven months later. The video surged to three million views in just three days, transforming their lives overnight.
Career and Life Update
Now pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at Georgia Tech, David has built an impressive path. He recently shared an update on his journey: “Things have been great! Since our last conversation three years ago, I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in computer science from the University of Florida.”
“Following graduation, I started a remote job that allowed me to follow my girlfriend to Atlanta, Georgia, and enjoy post-grad life in a fun city. I also recently started my master’s degree at Georgia Tech. It’s been a fun season of life, learning a lot and enjoying being on my own as I build my life. I have also gotten to travel a ton!”
David noted increased recognition in recent years due to adult interviews: “People have actually recognised me a bit more now that I have done interviews etc as an adult. It’s been a fun change of pace!”
Lasting Positive Impact
David describes the video as his “biggest blessing,” opening doors to unique opportunities. He and his family attended the Ralph Breaks the Internet premiere red carpet in Los Angeles alongside other viral stars. In March 2023, he reflected: “There are nothing but positive experiences. We have gotten to do things, see things and go to places we never would have.”
Memorable encounters include being spotted across Times Square during a New York Today show appearance and recognized by a restaurant chef through a kitchen window at age 13. David feels fortunate the fame hit at seven, allowing him to “just go with the flow” without it overshadowing his identity.
In 2021, the original uncut footage sold as an NFT for $11,600, funding education for David and his brother. He leveraged the story strategically in his University of Florida admissions essay: “I really milked the ‘David After Dentist’ thing… You had to talk about something unique in your life that had an impact on you.”
