Chris Franklin is an unlikely social media star.
The 61-year-old British farmer has garnered more than 54,000 "fans" on TikTok, where he posts his refreshingly wholesome—and pretty adorable—"Rush Hour" videos. The clips have become a part of many morning routines, as users will begin their day by watching Franklin open a farm gate at the Caenhill Countryside Centre and greet the animals by name.
"Hope you're having a good morning or goodnight, and here we are with rush hour," the farmer says in a video, as ducks, chickens, roosters, and goats march onto the yard. "Hello Cici, Gilbert, Salt and Pepper [...] can't forget Smudge. Hello Kenny."
These regular "rush hour" videos have received thousands of interactions, and have also helped the center's charitable mission. Franklin, who took over the family farm with his wife about five years ago, uses the center to teach young people about animals and the countryside.
"It gives us the chance to create memories — and careers," Franklin recently told BuzzFeed News.
According to the outlet, the farmer was initially unaware that his videos had gone viral on TikTok; however, the newfound fame has obviously benefited the center's cause. Because it is not a functioning farm, the center relies on volunteers and donations to sustain itself. And there's no doubt that his TikTok presence has provided a boost.
BuzzFeed reports that Franklin intends to take on more volunteers and increase funding for a farm kitchen, which he will use to educate the community about picking and cooking vegetables.
You can check out more of his videos below.
