Anthony Padilla's Vegan Journey: The Health and Lifestyle Shift
For many longtime fans of Anthony Padilla, his association with early YouTube comedy and his time at Smosh is the most memorable part of his career. However, a significant personal change occurred around the same period that shaped his future—his move to a fully plant-based diet. While his comedic persona was evolving, Anthony was also quietly embarking on a health-focused transformation. Since making the switch in 2014, his veganism has been a consistent part of his public identity, often mentioned in relation to his improved health and mental clarity.
The Initial Motivation: From Support to Personal Health
Anthony's path to veganism wasn't a sudden decision; it was a gradual process with a clear starting point. According to the Smosh Wiki, he first began eating vegan food in late 2013 as a show of support for his then-fiancée, Kalel. This initial phase served as an entry point to the diet, allowing him to explore plant-based eating without a full, immediate commitment. By 2014, however, his motivation shifted from solidarity to self-interest. He decided to switch fully to veganism for his own health reasons.
One of the most profound health benefits Anthony experienced was a reduction in anxiety and panic attacks. He has been open about his struggles with anxiety, and the dietary change played a crucial role in managing his symptoms. In a "Draw My Life" video, he explained that adopting a healthier lifestyle, including his dietary choices, helped him gain control over his panic attacks. This personal testimony serves as a powerful motivator for others considering a plant-based diet for its mental health benefits.
Public Appearances and Content
Anthony's veganism wasn't just a private matter; it also occasionally became part of his public content, especially during his later Smosh days. One notable example is the "VEGAN CHALLENGE W/ ANTHONY PADILLA" video on the Smosh 2nd Channel, where he and another cast member tried various vegan dishes. While framed as a challenge, it offered a glimpse into his new dietary habits. He also appeared in other food-related videos where his veganism was a focal point, such as a segment with ClevverTV trying different meatless meats.
In his post-Smosh career, particularly with his successful interview series “I Spent A Day With…,” his lifestyle is less of a central topic but remains a part of his overall narrative. The focus has shifted to the deeper, more meaningful conversations he has with his diverse range of guests, from interviewers to bodybuilders. However, the healthier, more balanced lifestyle he adopted around the time of his departure from Smosh is widely seen as connected to his evolution as a content creator, moving from high-energy comedy to more profound, empathetic storytelling. He has consistently shown a thoughtful and self-aware approach to his work, reflecting his personal growth.
The Shift from Comedy to Interviews
While his dietary change was a personal one, it's difficult to separate it from the broader evolution of Anthony Padilla. The years leading up to his departure from Smosh and the launch of his new interview series were marked by significant self-discovery and a desire for more meaningful creative control. The move to a healthier lifestyle, both physically and mentally, aligned with this search for authenticity. His current channel, with its focus on in-depth conversations, is a testament to this growth. As highlighted by The Washington Post, Padilla now focuses on connecting with his interview subjects on a more personal level, a stark contrast to his earlier sketch comedy persona. The discipline and mindfulness required for a sustained vegan diet may have contributed to his ability to approach his work with renewed purpose and empathy. The contrast in his content is a reflection of the change in the person behind the camera.
Comparing Padilla's Content: Then vs. Now
To better understand the shift, let's compare Anthony Padilla's output during his Smosh days with his current “I Spent A Day With…” series.
| Feature | Smosh Era (Pre-2017) | "I Spent A Day With..." Series (Post-2017) |
|---|---|---|
| Content Focus | Short, high-energy sketch comedy, food challenges, comedic vlogs. | Long-form, in-depth interviews with a focus on empathy and understanding. |
| Persona | Wacky, comedic, often childish; played a specific character within the duo. | Empathetic, mature, insightful; plays the role of an active listener and interviewer. |
| Dietary Mentions | Occasionally part of a comedic bit, like the "Vegan Challenge." | Infrequently mentioned, but part of a broader health-conscious and mature narrative. |
| Creative Control | Shared creative process with Ian Hecox and the larger Smosh team. | Full creative control over concepts, guests, and editing. |
| Audience Engagement | Broad, often younger audience drawn to sketch comedy. | Engaged, loyal audience interested in human stories and deeper conversations. |
The Longevity of Padilla's Commitment
Anthony's veganism is not a temporary fad; it has been a consistent choice for over a decade. His long-term commitment to the lifestyle is a reflection of the positive impact it has had on his overall well-being. By embracing a plant-based diet, he not only addressed specific health concerns but also embarked on a journey of personal growth that has informed his creative work. He is a testament to how dietary changes can be part of a larger, more meaningful personal transformation.
Conclusion
So, is Anthony Padilla vegan? The answer is a clear yes. His journey from supporting a partner to fully embracing a plant-based diet for his own health is well-documented and publicly acknowledged. It was a change that coincided with a significant shift in his career and personal life, and one he has maintained for many years. For Anthony, veganism was not just about food; it was about investing in a healthier, more balanced lifestyle that empowered him to pursue more meaningful and authentic content.
For more insights into Anthony Padilla's current work and interviews, check out this article on how he approaches his interviews: We spent a day with Anthony Padilla, YouTube's interview king.
