UNCLE SHANO: TURNING TIKTOK FAME INTO REAL TALK ON MENTAL HEALTH AND IDENTITY
BY RENATA KELLY AND TANGIORA HINAKI
Luke Beeson, known to most as Uncle Shano on TikTok, didn’t expect much when he first joined the app during COVID lockdowns. Working in counselling at the time, he saw his kids using TikTok and assumed it was all dancing. Now, he is bringing that same energy to Ngaarda TV, where his story and voice are set to reach an even wider audience.
“I thought it was just little kids dancing,” he said.
“Had a look and realised that it's not just that.”
His first videos were comedy skits, a Valentine’s Day scenario and a lip-sync using a Kiwi bloke’s voice.
The second one blew up, bringing in a wave of followers, especially from New Zealand.
From there, Mr Luke started sharing more than just jokes. One serious video about experiencing racism in the workplace reached over 700,000 views.
That post, along with his humour, helped build a solid platform, one that’s led to paid shoutouts, interstate travel, and community work, including men’s yarning circles.
Despite the recognition, Mr Luke says he still finds it surreal.
“I still don’t get it. I’m still trying to let it sink in.”
He’s recently returned from a trip to Carnarvon, where kids were yelling “Uncle Shano!” from scooters as he drove into town.
While most of the response has been positive, he’s also faced threats, including toward his kids. However, he stays focused on the bigger picture, using his platform to discuss men’s mental health, identity, and family.
“I’ll yarn first, and that door’s open for you to speak if you choose to,” he said.
His comedy is rooted in truth, drawn from his own life, cousins, and uncles. The character of Shano, initially created with a Snapchat filter, was never meant to be taken seriously.
Now, most people know him by that name.
“I just stopped telling people my name’s Luke.”
As a single dad, he said he’s “winging it”, but his kids are his drive. He’s proud they can be silly and expressive — things he had to suppress growing up.
Stand-up comedy is on his list, but for now, he’s focusing on doing good with the attention he’s gained.
He said the most significant barrier for Aboriginal men is still the pressure to be silent and strong.
“We’re taught to take care of everyone else, and no one tells us to take care of ourselves.”
Click on the link below to listen to the full interview.