Don’t compare yourself to others. I used to constantly question why other creators got certain deals or campaigns. Comparison is the thief of joy everyone’s timeline is different.
As a part of our series about leaders who are using their social media platform to make a significant social impact, we had the pleasure of interviewing Marco Donatelli.
Marco Donatelli is a dynamic television personality, model, and digital creator best known as the Season 5 Winner of Love Island USA. With his natural charisma, magnetic screen presence, and genuine charm, Marco captured the hearts of millions of viewers and built a devoted following across social media. Since his breakout on Love Island, he has leveraged his platform to collaborate with leading fashion, lifestyle, and wellness brands, while continuing to share his journey with authenticity and humor. A huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan and avid sports enthusiast, Marco brings his competitive spirit and team-driven mindset to everything he does — on and off camera. Beyond reality TV, he represents a new generation of talent: driven, entrepreneurial, and dedicated to inspiring confidence, positivity, and connection within his growing global audience.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us a story about what brought you to this specific career path?
I had a dream back in 2020 when the world shut down. I had to move back home from college and was living with my grandmother and father in Sharon, Pennsylvania. I was 19 at the time and aware of TikTok I saw how trends could blow up and how fast views could spread.
One night in early April, I had a dream that I was famous. I didn’t know how or why I just knew it was going to happen. I ran down to my father’s room and excitedly told him about TikTok and how I was going to be famous. He was confused about how those two things connected and said, “How are you going to get famous? You can’t sing, and it’s not going to be through football.”
I simply said, “TikTok.”
We started researching the app and thought maybe we could create something fun to bring some light into a dark time. That same night, around 7 p.m., we went to Walmart wearing scuba diving masks. We filmed a quick skit: “Uhhh, Dad, I think we have the wrong kind of mask on,” and then cut to us wearing the scuba masks.
My very first video went viral overnight with almost 8 million views and 800,000 likes. That was the start. That one video changed everything, and I ran with it from there.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began this career?
A lot has happened since 2020, but the craziest story by far was in 2023 when I went on Love Island looking for love. Before the show, I felt lonely and heartbroken because my mom had recently passed away. I went in with the mindset of, “You never know until you try.”
Not only did I make it onto Love Island, but I started the show as an OG Islander. A few days later, my now fiancée walked into the villa and we instantly clicked. As we got to know each other, she told me that her middle name, and her mother’s name, was “Maria” the same as my mom, who had passed away.
At that moment, I felt like my mom had sent me an angel. That was when I knew this was meant to be.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
The funniest mistake I made was not realizing the world I had stepped into. I had never watched reality TV or binged Netflix shows. I was totally clueless about the entertainment industry.
One time, I got invited to a Christmas party “sponsored by DirecTV.” I assumed DirecTV themselves were inviting me. When I arrived, I saw posters everywhere with a woman’s face on them. I asked one of the hosts, “Who’s this lady?” and they said, “That’s Kathy Hilton.” I said, “Oh, who’s that?” and they replied, “That’s whose house you’re at!”
I learned very quickly to do my research before showing up somewhere and to know who’s actually hosting the event!
You have been blessed with success in a career path that can be challenging. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?
You only get one first impression, one first appearance on TV, one opportunity to define what you’ll be known for. So don’t try to be anyone you’re not. Be yourself, that’s what you’re best at.
Self-awareness and honesty are everything in this industry. If you want to pursue this path, take the time to find yourself, get in shape, and sharpen your mental state. This world can eat you alive if you’re not prepared.
Failure is normal, we all fail. But one piece of advice I always give is: never let people see you “sweat.” Meaning, if something bothers you, don’t show it online. Stay composed and in control.
Can you describe to our readers how you are using your platform to make a significant social impact?
I use my platform to remind people that real love still exists. Genuine, wholehearted love can still be found even on reality TV. I try to bring positivity, high energy, and show what it looks like when a man treats his woman with the utmost respect.
I’m known for the balance and structure in my relationship that makes it so relatable. People are drawn to my outgoing personality and charisma, but I take being a male role model in this industry very seriously.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted by this cause?
It’s hard to narrow it down to one person, but I connect deeply with individuals who’ve lost a parent to addiction. I get thousands of messages each year from people thanking me for being open about my mom’s struggle with alcohol and how it affected me. Knowing that my story helps others heal makes it all worth it.
Was there a tipping point that made you decide to focus on this particular area? Can you share a story about that?
The tipping point was realizing that in almost every room I walk into, people actually listen to what I have to say. I thought, “If people already value my opinion, why not use my voice to help others?” That’s when I started posting advice-style videos content that connects on a real, human level.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
Yes first, understand that most of us are just regular people living day-to-day lives who suddenly gain overnight fame. Many creators are doing their best, and it’s important for viewers to uplift rather than criticize. Encouragement goes a long way in helping creators thrive and stay grounded.
Why do you think social media in particular has the power to create social change and positive impact on humanity?
Social media has an incredible power to create positive change because of the sheer reach it has. Millions of people can become aware of a situation almost instantly. I see it all the time from barbers giving free haircuts to the homeless, to GoFundMe campaigns changing families’ lives. That kind of visibility is powerful, and when used right, it’s beautiful.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
- Don’t compare yourself to others. I used to constantly question why other creators got certain deals or campaigns. Comparison is the thief of joy everyone’s timeline is different.
- Being a creator makes daily life harder. No one told me how difficult self-employment could be, especially during tax season. I eventually had to set up an S-Corp to properly handle income. I wish I knew that earlier!
- Create a content schedule. Find what you’re good at and just post. Consistency is everything.
- Keep God close. It’s easy to lose touch with faith when you’re distracted by fame and social media. In my first year of success, I felt that drift and had to work to rebuild it.
- You’re only as strong as your team. If your photographer, videographer, or management isn’t giving their best, it limits your success. Surround yourself with people who push you to be better.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
I’d inspire a movement around how you start your day. I’d love to build a community or channel where people share how they begin their mornings with positivity whether it’s waking up early, walking for 10 minutes, or meditating. A strong start can truly set the tone for a successful day.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a power lunch with, and why?
Absolutely, Mark Cuban. He’s a Pittsburgh guy who’s built an unbelievable empire while still prioritizing family. I admire the way he handles business and life with balance and integrity.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can follow me across all my social media platforms TikTok and Instagram to stay updated with my latest projects, content, and upcoming ventures.
TikTok: marco.donatelli
Instagram: @marcoadonatelli
This was very meaningful. Thank you so much!