Candace Payne, born on May 13, 1979 in the United States, is a viral video sensation who rose to fame after posting a video of herself wearing a Chewbacca mask on Facebook. Growing up, Candace had a passion for musical theater and decided to pursue it as a major at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas. Her talent and charisma led her to be crowned homecoming queen in 1999, showcasing her natural ability to connect with others and shine in the spotlight.
In 2016, Candace's life changed forever when she decided to share a simple moment of joy with the world. Donning a toy Chewbacca mask, she live-streamed her infectious laughter and genuine excitement, capturing the hearts of millions. The video quickly went viral, amassing over 145 million views in less than a week and earning her the endearing nickname of Chewbacca Mom. Her genuine and unfiltered reaction resonated with people worldwide, showcasing the power of authenticity and the beauty of finding joy in everyday moments.
Following her viral video success, Candace made appearances on popular television shows such as Good Morning America and The Late Late Show with James Corden. Her down-to-earth personality and infectious laugh endeared her to audiences everywhere, solidifying her status as a beloved internet personality. Even Peter Mayhew, the actor who portrayed Chewbacca in the Star Wars films, praised her video as "absolutely wonderful," further solidifying her place in pop culture history.
Behind the scenes, Candace is a devoted wife to her husband Chris Payne, who has bravely battled addiction and is now in recovery. Together, they are the proud parents of two children, Duncan and Cadence, who bring endless joy and fulfillment to their lives. Residing in Grand Prairie, Texas, Candace's family is her rock and foundation, providing her with love and support as she navigates her newfound fame.
In addition to her viral success, Candace continues to share her journey and messages of positivity and authenticity with her growing online community. Her unwavering optimism and genuine spirit serve as a beacon of light in an often tumultuous world, inspiring others to embrace their true selves and find joy in the simplest of moments.