Julian Shapiro-Barnum Reveals Which 2 “Celebrity Substitute” and “Recess Therapy” Guests the Kids Want to See Again (Exclusive)

**Julian Shapiro-Barnum Expands Digital Empire with ‘Outside Tonight’ Premiere**

Julian Shapiro-Barnum, the acclaimed content creator, is set to launch his third show, titled *Outside Tonight,* on YouTube on 17 June. The announcement comes as he reflects on his journey in the digital landscape, particularly at the recent 2026 YouTube Brandcast Upfront, held in New York on 13 May.

At just 26 years of age, Shapiro-Barnum has captivated audiences with his unique approach to engaging children in candid conversations with celebrities. His previous shows, *Recess Therapy* and *Celebrity Substitute,* have not only gone viral but also become platforms for memorable interactions between A-list stars and young students.

During his conversation with *PEOPLE*, Shapiro-Barnum highlighted two celebrity guests who have particularly resonated with his young collaborators — Jonathan Groff and Olivia Rodrigo. Groff, a renowned actor known for his roles in *Hamilton* and *The Good Fight,* has become a firm favourite among the children. “The kids are obsessed with that man, as am I, and he has been on my show more than anybody else,” Shapiro-Barnum remarked, underlining Groff’s consistent presence in his projects.

Similarly, Olivia Rodrigo, the chart-topping singer behind hits like “Drivers License,” has made a significant impact on the show’s young audience. Shapiro-Barnum noted that the children often express their desire for Rodrigo to return, explaining, “I think they felt older sister vibes 100 percent from her.”

Rodrigo’s appearance on *Recess Therapy* in September 2023 became a standout moment, particularly due to a touching exchange with one of the show’s young stars, Miles. The viral episode featured Miles dispensing amusing yet earnest relationship advice to Rodrigo. When she asked him how she might find love, he suggested, “Pick a person that looks kind.” This simple yet sweet advice struck a chord, leading to the singer referring to him as “so sweet.”

The episode’s charm didn’t stop there; Miles concluded his advice with a humorous qualification: “The only person you can’t marry is your cousins.” This quirky moment elicited laughter from both Rodrigo and Shapiro-Barnum, illustrating the light-hearted yet meaningful tone of the show.

Shapiro-Barnum’s successful formula combines authentic childlike curiosity with the allure of celebrity, allowing viewers to witness genuine interactions that often defy conventional media portrayals. His work not only entertains but also fosters a sense of community and connection between audiences and their favourite stars.

As he embarks on the new project, *Outside Tonight*, which is positioned as a late-night-style talk show, Shapiro-Barnum aims to bring fresh perspectives and novel experiences to his viewers. The creator has indicated that this new venture will continue to showcase engaging conversations, much like his previous shows, while exploring different themes and formats.

With his rising profile, Shapiro-Barnum represents a new wave of content creators who are redefining engagement on platforms like YouTube. As he looks toward the future, it is clear that he is committed to delivering heartfelt, entertaining, and often educational content that resonates with audiences of all ages.

In a digital landscape that is constantly evolving, Julian Shapiro-Barnum’s innovative approach not only entertains but also enriches the lives of his young audience, proving that connection and laughter can be found through the simplest conversations. As the premiere date of *Outside Tonight* approaches, fans are eager to see how he will push creative boundaries further and what new adventures await.