Valkyrae Explains Why She Can’t Become a VTuber

Streaming sensation Rachell ‘Valkyrae’ Hofstetter recently shared an unexpected reason for her decision not to join the popular trend of becoming a VTuber, despite the increasing prominence of virtual avatars in the streaming community.

With over five million followers across Twitch and YouTube, Valkyrae has established herself as a leading figure in content creation over the last decade. Unlike a growing group of streamers who utilize avatars to conceal their identities, she typically engages with her audience face-to-face during gaming sessions and reaction videos.

The landscape of streaming has seen a remarkable rise in VTubers—avatars such as IronMouse, Gawr Gura, and Dokibird have gained immense popularity, attracting a loyal following. Although several prominent streamers have dabbled in VTubing, Valkyrae has made it clear that she isn’t permitted to venture into this territory.

Valkyrae poses for a selfie. — Instagram: valkyrae

Valkyrae is recognized as one of the most popular female streamers currently on Twitch.

Valkyrae’s Heartwarming Reason for Avoiding VTubing

On February 13, 2025, Valkyrae discussed her hesitation to adopt a VTuber persona during a stream, attributing her choice to her mother’s wishes. She humorously revealed, “Mom said I’m not allowed to ever have a [VTuber] model because she needs to see my face every stream.”

mom said I’m not allowed to ever have a vtube model because she needs to see my face every stream 🥲

— RAE (@Valkyrae) February 13, 2025

This touching revelation resonated with her fanbase, prompting emotional responses from viewers and fellow streamers alike. One fan commented, “That’s so sweet, tho, ” while another remarked, “Now that’s what I call real love.” A fellow VTuber expressed a desire for her to join the group but acknowledged, “Your mom is right. I like seeing your beautiful face every stream, too.”

As a vtuber I’d love for you to join us. AT THE SAME TIME, Your mom is right. I like seeing your beautiful face every stream too 💗

— Spite 🐺 Cerberus Vtuber 🐺 (@SpiteVtuber) February 13, 2025

Valkyrae shares a close bond with her mother, recently celebrating her birthday together in the Philippines, an event she documented in a YouTube vlog. The streamer even contemplated adoption with her mother in 2023, though further details on those discussions have since faded from public discourse.

As of late 2024, Valkyrae marked her 10-year streaming anniversary, returning to Twitch after her five-year contract with YouTube concluded. This milestone only adds to her rich history in the streaming world and reiterates her authentic connection with her audience.

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