Influencer GymSkin announced for Sunderland's New Year's Eve line-up

“He's one of the most talked-about names on social media and has a huge following among younger audiences, so we're excited to welcome him to the city,” says the council’s culture boss as a new name is added to this year’s New Year’s Eve line-up.

Viral streamer and social media personality Gymskin has been announced as the latest headline act for the city's celebrations.

Known for his popular livestreams and online content, the influencer has amassed more than 1.4 million followers on TikTok.

He comes to Sunderland at the end of a whirlwind year after being credited with bringing Madonna's 1985 hit Into the Groove back into the UK charts this year. His signature dance to the track went viral, and he celebrated by getting Madonna to join in his dance on a livestream.

Gymskin will headline Sunderland's afternoon entertainment programme, which gets underway in Keel Square from mid-afternoon on Thursday, December 31, with a programme of family entertainment, live music and festive fun.

He joins a New Year's Eve line-up that culminates with two spectacular fireworks displays, including an early evening show at 5.30pm and a midnight finale to welcome in 2027.

A fantastic line-up of entertainment will keep the celebrations going into the evening before Gok Wan takes to the stage ahead of the city's midnight fireworks spectacular.

Fairground rides, festive light installations and food traders serving seasonal treats and warming drinks will add to the celebrations throughout the day and into the evening.

Councillor Ciera Hudspith, Sunderland City Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Heritage, said: “We're committed to making Sunderland's New Year's Eve event a celebration that brings people together, and Gymskin is a fantastic addition to this year's line-up.

“He's one of the most talked-about names on social media and has a huge following among younger audiences, so we're excited to welcome him to the city.

“Alongside our family activities, live entertainment, Gok Wan's headline performance and two spectacular fireworks displays, we're looking forward to ending the year in style and giving residents and visitors another great reason to visit Sunderland city centre.”