Robert Cook is a performer first, retail salesman second. This prominent YouTuber, (29th most Subscribed of all time!), created the character Frederick, a boggled eyed, opinionated, social commentator. On the back of this charatcer Robert Cook has managed to become a Partner in YouTube’s lucrative Partnership Program. Here Rob talks about the program, Frederick, and the future.
A few excerpts from the interview :
1) When did you create Frederick?
I was playing around on computer, and I created these big eyes with special effects. It was originally another character. Then I heard about this thing called YouTube, and just started uploading.
2) Explain the basis of the character, what he does, why he does it.
I don’t know why he does what he does. Every time I do the character is not me, I know he is part of me, but it’s not me. I think it just the mischievous child, inner me coming out.
3) When did you first post on YouTube?
2006, around June.
4) How many subscribers and viewers do you now have?
I just hit 3900 subscribers. I think its like 15,000 channel views.
5) Why has Frederick been so popular on YouTube?
It is the eyes, no one else is doing it. But I think it is just that universal appeal to someone with those big dopey eyes. Apart from that I think he says what people are thinking.
6) You’ve been involved with the Partnership program, what does this mean?
Basically what happens its you get banners and auto play on your home page. Banners are at the top of the page, it gives your channel a bit more character. I was one of the first ten in Australia to be in the Partnership Program in Australia.
You put a video up, and basically they give you the option of having an ad put next to it by Google. So you get revenue off that ad, like 5 cents, every time it is clicked.
7) Can someone carve a financial future out of YouTube?
Definitely. Anything can happen though. You wouldn’t want to be basing it on YouTube, but yeah you can.
8 ) What opportunities has this presented to you?
Not yet. People have made offers to come and do talks. But nothing financial.
9) Where do you see your involvement with YouTube going?
I’ll always see it as a hobby, that I get a bit of cash off. I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing.
