William Sonbuchner, better known by his YouTube alias Sonny Side, is a celebrated filmmaker and food enthusiast who has taken the world by storm with his channel, “Best Ever Food Review Show”. As of 2024, at 39 years old, Sonny has built an impressive online presence, amassing over 8.3 million subscribers and a net worth of approximately $5 million. While his professional life is well-documented, Sonny has managed to keep his personal life, especially details about his wife, relatively private.
How Did Sonny Begin His Journey?
Sonny’s rise to fame was anything but conventional. Born on August 22, 1984, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, Sonny was passionate about visual storytelling from a young age. He attended Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, where he first explored filmmaking, but his academic journey was tumultuous. After attending three different colleges and not completing a degree, Sonny struggled to find his footing.
At 24, he moved to South Korea to teach English, a move that would change the course of his life. While originally interested in becoming a massage therapist, Sonny soon discovered his love for travel and food videography. His time in Asia inspired the creation of the “Best Ever Food Review Show”, combining his passion for exploring unique foods and different cultures.
What Makes Sonny’s Content Stand Out?
Sonny Side’s content stands out for its authenticity and adventurous spirit. Unlike many food vloggers who focus on popular dishes, Sonny takes his viewers on a global journey, showcasing lesser-known delicacies that often challenge conventional tastes. His fearless approach to trying unconventional and sometimes extreme foods, such as fermented fish or insects, sets him apart in the food content niche.
In 2020, Sonny made history as the first U.S.-owned YouTube channel to film in Iran, a bold move that demonstrated his commitment to bridging cultural gaps through food. This milestone solidified Sonny’s reputation as a content creator who goes beyond typical food reviews, offering viewers a deeper look into the world’s diverse culinary traditions.
What Are Sonny Side’s Career Highlights?
Sonny Side’s career is marked by numerous achievements. In 2020, he won the prestigious Webby Award for People’s Voice: Viral Video of the Year, a significant recognition in the digital content world. Additionally, Sonny was named a Webby Official Honoree in the Food & Drink category the same year, further validating his influence in the space.
Beyond YouTube, Sonny has expanded his career to other platforms. His recent collaboration with Netflix on the series “Wildly Delightful” demonstrates his versatility and growing influence in the entertainment industry. As a filmmaker and content creator, Sonny continues to push boundaries and evolve his craft.
Who Is Sonny Side’s Wife?
Despite his public persona, Sonny has managed to keep his personal life, especially his relationship, under wraps. He is married to a Vietnamese woman, whose identity remains undisclosed. While she chooses to stay out of the spotlight, it is known that she plays a key role behind the scenes as a producer for the “Best Ever Food Review Show.”
Their decision to maintain a low-profile relationship has contributed to the stability of their marriage, allowing Sonny to focus on his career while respecting their privacy. The couple has also decided not to have children at this point in their lives, which has allowed Sonny to dedicate more time to his ever-expanding career.
How Does Sonny Earn His Wealth?
Sonny’s $5 million net worth comes from various sources. While YouTube ad revenue from his channel remains a significant portion of his earnings, Sonny has diversified his income streams. He has secured sponsorship deals with major food and travel brands, leveraging his engaged audience and global reach.
In addition to sponsorships, Sonny also earns income from brand collaborations, including his Netflix series and travel partnerships. His influence in the food and travel space has opened the door to numerous business opportunities, ensuring his financial success extends beyond just YouTube.
What Challenges Did Sonny Face on His Path to Success?
Before becoming a YouTube sensation, Sonny’s life was filled with challenges. He worked various jobs, including at 104.7 KCLD, a local radio station, and in the restaurant industry, notably at Applebee’s. Despite his early ambition to break into the radio industry, rejections from major stations forced him to reconsider his career path.
Sonny’s big turning point came when he decided to move to South Korea to teach English. This experience exposed him to different cultures and gave him the time to experiment with video production. His decision to pursue content creation full-time eventually led to the success of the “Best Ever Food Review Show”, which has since become a global phenomenon.
What’s Next for Sonny Side?
Sonny Side’s future looks incredibly promising. With his unique approach to food and travel content, he continues to explore new opportunities and push creative boundaries. His collaborations with major platforms like Netflix have expanded his audience and showcased his ability to evolve as a content creator.
Fans can look forward to more daring food adventures and deeper cultural insights as Sonny continues to grow his brand. His fearless approach to content, paired with his knack for storytelling, ensures that Sonny will remain a leading figure in the world of food and travel entertainment for years to come.
Conclusion
Sonny Side, born William Sonbuchner, has crafted a successful career as a YouTube star and filmmaker through his passion for food, travel, and storytelling. With an impressive net worth of $5 million, Sonny has inspired millions by showcasing the world’s most unique and unusual cuisines. Although his wife remains out of the public eye, her contributions to his success are undeniable, helping him balance his personal and professional life.
As Sonny’s career continues to grow, his adventurous spirit and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly lead to even greater achievements in the future.
