How the Vine superstar turned his penchant for comedy into “Unfiltered” success
From Vine to YouTube, American social media star, director, producer, and podcaster Zane Hijazi has built a digital empire that boasts over 13 million followers today. His popular “Unfiltered” podcast, alongside partner-in-crime Heath Hussar, became one of the top five podcasts in the U.S., earning them the USA Today Award for “Podcast of the Year” in 2023.
Hijazi is known for his comedic prowess, sarcastic wit, and daring concepts. With a natural charisma and unabashed ability to be himself, Hijazi engages his followers in a way that allows them to feel like they’re joining him on each crazy adventure. It’s garnered him a dedicated fanbase who enjoy the unique energy the content creator brings to a content-saturated world.
In our Winter issue, we dive into his origin story, his friendship with Heath, his decision to make healthy lifestyle choices, and his big-screen dreams.
Get ready to fall INLOVE as we unravel the layers of Zane Hijazi’s life, laughter, and a dash of cheekiness that makes him the perfect male cover star for the season.
INLOVE: What did you dream of doing when you were a kid?
Zane Hijazi: I wanted to be a dentist, which is ironic because I quickly changed to becoming a dentist’s dream. I’ve had more cavities filled on my teeth than any person I’ve ever met in my life.
IN LOVE: You started off making Vines with your best friend. You two have gone on quite a journey together. Now you’re doing the “Zane and Heath: Unfiltered” Podcast. What can you share about your relationship with Heath, what do you love about him, and what makes you such a good team?
Zane Hijazi: Heath is one of the few people who has ever been able to get me out of my shell. I met Heath in college, and we instantly became best friends. I love that kid to death. We both strive for perfection in different aspects of everything we do, which is a blessing and a curse. I know nothing lasts forever, but I just wish I could make funny videos with him forever.
INLOVE: You won the USA Today Award for “Podcast of the Year” in 2023. Was that a huge moment? How did it make you feel?
Zane Hijazi: I couldn’t believe it. There’s never a moment where Heath and I aren’t shocked when we meet someone who listens to our podcast. So the fact that we were even nominated for Podcaster of the Year was already huge for us.
INLOVE: You also recently produced a “Saw” video. Tell me about that experience.
Zane Hijazi: It was a long-awaited experience. I’ve always loved horror movies growing up, one of them being the whole “Saw” franchise. Having the chance to work with Lionsgate to promote their latest film, “Saw X,” was an absolute honor. Full circle moment. I could do projects like that forever.
INLOVE: “Saw” is doing another movie, and I know your dream is to be in it. What role would you want to have in it?
Zane Hijazi: Honestly, anything. I’ll be a dead body in a shot for all I care. To be in “Saw” would be a dream come true.
INLOVE: You’re known for being funny, sarcastic, and adventurous. Have you always been this way, or do you find you discover more about yourself the more you do?
Zane Hijazi: I was actually the complete opposite growing up. I was a very shy kid. Finding good friends along the way has helped me knock down those walls more than I thought I ever could.
INLOVE: What is the secret to creating good content?
Zane Hijazi: Find what you’re good at when it comes to the process of making content and practice consistently. Whenever the thought comes, “Oh, that would be funny” or “That was a really funny moment,” just write it down and figure out a way to film it later.
INLOVE: What advice would you offer to people who want to be content creators?
Zane Hijazi: So cliché, but be yourself. It’s really easy to tell if someone is trying to be somebody else, especially these days. People will love you for you, I promise. Even if it takes time.
INLOVE: Right now, you’re on a health kick. You’re undergoing a full-body transformation with Xeela Fitness. How did you get involved, and what are your ultimate goals?
Zane Hijazi: It initially started last year when Heath and I were asked by Xeela to do this fitness transformation together. Heath and I looked at each other and said that it was time. We had a very unhealthy lifestyle when it came to the way we ate and drank every day. We just didn’t care, and it was very noticeable. My ultimate health goal is to not only look great but, most importantly, feel great… who am I kidding? I just wanted to see abs on myself for once in my life. It’s nice!
INLOVE: What healthy habits have you created that make you feel better?
Zane Hijazi: I find the fun in figuring out those habits. Seven months ago, I always wanted to be out. Always wanted to party. Always wanted to drink. Now, watching good movies, editing, and drinking four cups of decaf coffee with a ton of fat-free creamer in it on Saturday nights has actually become fun for me. It’s insane, especially coming from me.
INLOVE: What do you hope to accomplish in 2024? Any New Year Resolutions?
Zane Hijazi: Now that I got junk food and excessive drinking out of my system, the vape is the final boss.
INLOVE: What projects will you be releasing or working on in the new year?
Zane Hijazi: A couple, but I can’t talk about it yet. I know Heath is reading this, and I don’t want him to see that I ruined the surprise. It’s not time yet.
INLOVE: How would you define your style? What looks, brands, or fashion do you feel best highlight your personality?
Zane Hijazi: Gym shorts and old tees. I have no sense of style whatsoever. I’m hoping to find a better sense of it now that I can fit into nicer clothes.
INLOVE: What current fashion trend do you think is timeless?
Zane Hijazi: Apple bottom jeans and boots with the fur.
INLOVE: What were your favorite looks from today’s shoot? How did they make you feel?
Zane Hijazi: Honestly, whenever I’m shooting something, I love wearing outfits I would never wear on a normal day. Makes me feel like I’m in character.
Rapid Fire w/Zane Hijazi
Favorite color: Blue
Favorite song: “Gloria” by Laura Branigan
Favorite movie: “Office Christmas Party”
Favorite TV show: “House of the Dragon”
Favorite comedian: Ricky Gervais
Favorite drink: Diet Coke
Favorite place to vacation: Anywhere tropical
Favorite local spot in LA: Black Market Liquor Bar
Favorite podcast (apart from yours): Surprisingly, I don’t listen to podcasts.
Favorite YouTuber (that you haven’t worked with): You’re really putting me on the spot. I don’t watch YouTube either. Only shows and movies.
Favorite life hack: This isn’t very good for you, but I recently found out tanning beds zap ALL of my face and body pimples and keep them gone. Do what you want with that information.
Favorite quote: “Who driving dis bus?”
Words by Sari Cohen
Cover Look: INLOVE (inlovemag.shop/.com)
Photographer: Charlie Babcock
Creative Director: Elena Vasilevsky
Stylist: Malyssa Lyles
Assistant: Justin Ruse
Writer: Sari Cohen
Groomer: Tetiana Kazak
Cover Look: Tee Shirt by INLOVE (inlovemag.shop/.com)
Jacket: Alexander McQueen (SaksFifthAve.com)
