In the ever-evolving world of internet fame, controversy often becomes a stepping stone toward viral success—and no one knows that better than the Island Boys. Twin brothers Alex and Franky Venegas, known by their online personas Flyysoulja and Kodiyakredd, became household names in late 2021 after their impromptu TikTok performance of the now-infamous song “I’m an Island Boy” exploded across social media. Their quirky appearance, unique musical delivery, and unapologetic confidence sparked instant recognition—and equally instant mockery.
While many believed the twins’ moment in the spotlight would be fleeting, the Venegas brothers have continuously reinvented their digital presence to stay relevant. One of their most controversial moves to date involved a provocative video posted to their OnlyFans account, in which the two brothers shared a kiss. The act, intended to attract subscribers and attention, ignited an online firestorm and led to accusations of incest, media backlash, and widespread disgust from fans and critics alike.
Why Did They Do It?
When confronted with criticism, the brothers offered a response that was as defiant as it was unsettling. “We’re twin brothers. We came out the womb together. We grew up together,” they said in an interview. “It’s not really disgusting if it’s twins.” According to them, the kiss was a calculated business decision made during a financially vulnerable period. Kodiyakredd admitted that at the time, he only had $40,000 in his bank account and was desperate to maintain his lifestyle and visibility in the online space.
What followed surprised everyone—including the brothers themselves.
The Result: Millions Earned from a Single Video
Despite the controversy (or, perhaps, because of it), the video achieved exactly what it was meant to: viral traction. During a promotional appearance for YouTuber Adin Ross’s Brand Risk 006 boxing event, Kodiyakredd revealed that the kiss video brought in a staggering $6 million in earnings for him alone. His brother, Flyysoulja, reportedly earned even more—an astonishing $8 million.
These earnings, while lucrative, have reignited intense discussions online about the ethical boundaries of content creation. Is there such a thing as “going too far” when it comes to monetizing online fame? And if so, who draws that line?
Controversy or Clout: The Ethics of Viral Fame
For critics, this incident is emblematic of a digital culture that increasingly rewards shock value over substance. “It’s not about talent anymore,” wrote one commenter on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s about what you’re willing to do to get clicks.” Others expressed concern over how far influencers will go for attention, warning that such stunts might normalize or blur lines around taboo behavior for younger, impressionable audiences.
On the other hand, some defended the twins’ actions as a savvy, if uncomfortable, business move. “No one got hurt. They made money. End of story,” said another user. “If people don’t like it, don’t watch it.”
A Sign of the Times?
Whether celebrated as marketing geniuses or condemned as desperate attention-seekers, the Island Boys have once again proven their ability to manipulate the digital media ecosystem to their advantage. Their story sheds light on the bizarre and often morally ambiguous nature of internet fame in 2025. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and OnlyFans turning ordinary individuals into millionaires overnight, the pressure to outdo past stunts can push creators into uncharted—and controversial—territory.
The Island Boys’ viral kiss was more than just a headline—it was a reflection of the internet’s growing appetite for the outrageous, the shocking, and the profitable. As long as audiences continue to reward such behavior with views and subscriptions, it’s likely that other creators will follow in their footsteps—perhaps even pushing boundaries even further.
