Brett Cohen: The Transition From Fake to Real Celebrity

Just four days after John F. Kennedy High School graduate Brett Cohen posted a video on YouTube, his life has changed completely.

The video, which is about Cohen’s prank to fool the people of New York City into believing he’s a celebrity, has actually helped him become one. In the 96 hours since the video was posted online, it’s accumulated more than 1.5 million views (as of 11:30 a.m.), 20,000 likes and 7,000 comments.

“It means that the very hard work that went into it definitely paid off,” Cohen told Patch. “I’m very happy that people are getting to see this video. Whatever they think of it, I just hope they enjoy it.”

The media attention has amped up as well. On Saturday, Cohen appeared on “The Today Show,” and before that, he appeared on “Good Morning America” (GMA) and “Good Day New York” on Friday. For the GMA appearance, there was a red carpet, and Cohen signed autographs during a live concert in Central Park. He then went on stage for a live interview. There’s been media coverage from sources out of the United States as well. Cohen added that the daytime shows that start during the week of Sept. 10 are competing to have him for their season premiers.

“As much as I’d love to do all of the shows, it has to be exclusive to one,” Cohen said. “I have to make a decision and tell these other shows that I can’t do them.”

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Initially, Cohen was keeping track of all of the comments below the YouTube video and all of the emails about the video, but he said that’s no longer possible because of how quickly the video has gone viral. He added that he’s gotten emails from people in Poland and South Africa saying that his video is all over the news as well.

“It’s the thrill ride of a lifetime,” Cohen said. “I really want it to continue.”

Cohen’s made it clear that he has interest in pursuing a career in television, and on Friday, he was contacted by producers who want to speak with him regarding possible projects.

The Bellmore resident has achieved fame in a matter of days, and he said he can’t go anywhere without people asking for his picture.

“It all started with a conversation, and now it’s a conversation with the whole world,” Cohen said. “I guess my life has been elevated to a different level. I don’t think my life will ever be the same after this. “

What do you think of Cohen’s instant success? Tell us in the comments below.