Piper Rockelle is pushing back against criticism following her explosive debut on OnlyFans, saying she’s "exploiting" herself, not being exploited by others.
The 18-year-old YouTuber and former child star joined the adult subscription platform on January 1, reportedly earning nearly $3 million on her first day.
"If people are going to write my narrative and say that I've been exploited my whole entire life, go ahead," Rockelle told USA Today during a remote interview from a Los Angeles high-rise. "I'm exploiting myself."
Rockelle said the decision to launch an OnlyFans account was not made lightly, acknowledging the influence she holds over her younger fans. "There’s a lot that weighs on me," she said.
Wearing a T-shirt that read “Hating Me Won’t Make You Pretty,” Rockelle appeared relaxed but direct. A tattoo on her wrist reads “be grateful,” which she said reflects how she feels.
The internet personality acknowledged the wave of online reactions, ranging from accusations that she’d sold out to claims that her mother, Tiffany Smith, was behind the decision.
“I enjoy what I’m doing,” Rockelle said. “I really don’t care what people have to say.” She explained that joining the platform was part of taking back control of her public image after years of speculation and criticism. “They’re only seeing snippets,” she added. “If I don’t control the story, someone else will.”
Rockelle first gained national attention on Lifetime’s "Dance Twins" before becoming one of YouTube’s most viral teen influencers.
Now legally an adult, Rockelle says the move to adult content is fully her choice. "I’m in this spot because I’ve been in this my whole life," she said. "That’s what gave me traction, and I’m using it."
"I’ve heard every opinion," she added. "But this is my decision. It’s mine to make."
