AARP + Gen X: Celebrating the “Forgotten Generation”

To reach and engage Generation X — a generation that is often overlooked — AARP has cultivated a TikTok presence that makes them feel seen. Our goal is simple: Connect with Gen Xers through entertaining, relatable content that reflects their lived experiences and reshapes perceptions of AARP.
THE CONCEPT:
We partnered with four well-known Gen X creators — Sherri Dindal (@therealslimsherri), Nick Harrison (@mrprofessor318), Kelly Manno (@kellymanno), and Jon Wellington (@thedadbodveteran) — to celebrate the moments and experiences that helped shape “the forgotten generation.” We aimed to break through the noise and authentically connect with an audience that relishes their memories of the 80s and 90s, and who are now embracing new adventures and redefining midlife.
Working with these creators earned AARP a seat at the cool kids’ table. Our strategy hinged on authenticity and cultural resonance, as we integrated the creators into our recurring series alongside “AARP TikTok Guy” Craig Moorhead. Crafted to honor unique moments, items, and cultural touchstones that shaped Gen X, popular series like “What Is That?” and “Gen X ASMR Blindfold Challenge” received a fresh burst of energy as the creators’ familiar faces appeared where audiences least expected — in relatable videos made with AARP.
A standout moment was recreating the iconic hallway scene from The Breakfast Club, with Craig and the creators embodying the classic characters while a Gen Z “Principal Vernon” prompted them to create a TikTok explaining who they think they are. The video blended nostalgia and originality, sparking conversation and positive sentiment across TikTok and Instagram.
THE RESULTS:
Across seven videos, we proved AARP isn’t just relevant — we’re leading the cultural conversation alongside some of the generation’s most trusted voices. The collaboration generated 8.5M views and 220,000 engagements, including 8,000 comments and 16,000 shares. Nearly 30,000 new followers joined AARP’s TikTok community. Comments tell the story:
“Love this! AARP is where the cool kids sit now! ????”
“This entire post is GenX approved. All our favorite content creators ♥️”
“*chef's kiss* my Gen X brain approves!”
“THIS, this is next level advertising"
“The most badass AARP generation eevveerrrrr!!"