Russell Horning Net Worth 2025
Russell Horning at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $3 million
- Birthdate: December 19, 2001
- Birthplace: Lawrenceville, Georgia
- Profession: Social media personality, dancer, rapper
- Nationality: American
What is Russell Horning’s Net Worth?
Russell Horning has a net worth of $3 million. He is an American social media personality, dancer, and rapper known professionally as “Backpack Kid.” Horning built his fortune after his signature dance move, “The Floss,” became a global phenomenon.
The foundation of his wealth comes from his massive social media following. Horning leverages his platforms on TikTok and Instagram for high-value brand partnerships and sponsored content. He also generates significant income from YouTube monetization for his music videos and vlogs. His earnings are supplemented by paid appearances and brand ambassadorships that capitalized on his viral fame.
Early Life
Russell Horning was born in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He began posting humorous dance videos to Instagram in 2014, establishing a unique identity by maintaining a completely straight, deadpan face while performing awkward choreography. His following grew steadily, but his first major break came in 2016 when the artist Rihanna reposted one of his videos, catapulting him to a new level of social media visibility.
Career
Russell Horning’s career ignited in May 2017. He was invited by singer Katy Perry to perform alongside her on Saturday Night Live during her rendition of the song “Swish Swish.” During the performance, Horning—wearing his trademark backpack—stole the show by performing his signature arm-swinging dance. The clip went viral almost instantly, and the move was dubbed “The Floss” by media and fans worldwide, becoming one of the most recognizable dance crazes of the decade.
The SNL appearance turned Horning into an international sensation. This success led to immediate opportunities, including cameo appearances in the music videos for “Swish Swish” and “Rolex” by Ayo & Teo. He fully capitalized on the momentum by launching a rap career, releasing his first single, “Flossin’,” in 2018, followed by his debut EP, SwagPack Kid.
While his subsequent music releases did not capture the same viral success as his initial song, Horning successfully transitioned from a one-time viral star into a sustainable content creator. He continues to maintain a significant online presence, focusing on his social media channels and music production.
The Fortnite Lawsuit
In 2018, Horning’s mother, on his behalf, filed a lawsuit against Epic Games, the developer of the popular video game Fortnite. The suit alleged copyright infringement, claiming the company had unlawfully profited from “The Floss” by selling it as a downloadable “emote” for in-game characters without permission or compensation.
Horning’s case was one of several similar lawsuits filed by artists, including Alfonso Ribeiro (“The Carlton” dance). In 2019, Horning dropped his lawsuit. The withdrawal was a procedural decision based on a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that stated a plaintiff must have an approved copyright registration from the U.S. Copyright Office before they can sue for infringement, which Horning had not secured at the time.
FAQ
What is Backpack Kid’s net worth in 2025?
Russell Horning’s net worth is $3 million.
How old is Russell Horning?
He was born on December 19, 2001, making him 23 years old as of late 2025.
Did Backpack Kid invent the Floss dance?
While the exact origins of the dance move are debated, Russell Horning is universally credited with popularizing “The Floss” (which he also referred to as “The Russell”) and bringing it to mainstream global attention through his viral Saturday Night Live performance in 2017.
Did Backpack Kid win his lawsuit against Fortnite?
No. Horning voluntarily dropped the lawsuit against Epic Games in 2019 following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that affected the procedural requirements for copyright cases.
What is Russell Horning doing now?
In 2025, Russell Horning continues to work as a social media personality and content creator. He also focuses on his music career, primarily as a producer, and manages his income from past and present brand endorsements.
