One of Knowsley Safari Park's resident lions has been crowned King of TikTok, as his video tops the list of the most watched of 2020 in the UK.
Earning himself 20.9 million ‘Likes’ and firmly establishing his position at the top of the TikTok 100, Sam the Lion was filmed by @emma.cxmpbell during a visit to the Merseyside Safari this summer.
The video, captioned "turning into an animal TIKTOK fan account at this stage," shows Sam as he saunters down the Safari drive to a popular JVLA track, later weaving in between visitors cars.
Rachel Scott, Head of Marketing, Knowsley Safari said: "We all know that our amazing and beautiful animals are the stars at the Safari but Sam has really stolen the limelight this year!
"We’re delighted that one of our lions has gone viral and it’s fantastic to see the appreciation shown across the TikTok community - we hope it inspires people to find out more about threatened species like the African lion."
The TikTok 100 is a collection of the creators, trends, tracks, effects and TikTok videos that have entertained, comforted, amazed and educated the TikTok community this year - and has been hugely popular for families and individuals alike during the pandemic.
TikTok's second most watched UK video was by @BenandKexia, who spent hours creating a massive domino train in their home during lockdown.
But for 2020, Sam the Lion has showed that cats still continue to be what people love to watch online.
Earlier this week, Knowsley Safari announced it was celebrating the end of another lockdown with £10 per person tickets, so families can enjoy a full day of outdoor fun after a month of tight restrictions.
Social distancing and enhanced hygiene measures remain and include timed and contactless entry, a one-way Foot Safari, socially distanced picnic areas, PPE for staff, protective screens and helpful staff and signage.
Visitors must book a timeslot online. To find out more click here.
