Michael has always enjoyed interacting with his fans on social media and aspires to become an influencer. However, his recent actions on TikTok have received a lot of criticism.

A Reddit user named@slipperysquirrellrecently expressed disappointment and disapproval of Michael’s new money-making antics. The Redditor posted a photo of Michael’s TikTok gift battle and discussed how the reality star had beenbegging fans for gifts on social media instead of finding employmentin the United States. The Redditor wrote,“he could work hard and send money home. I mean I guess it’s easy money.“Many others agreed in the comments and expressed their disappointment. Another Redditor, @Kooky_Avocado9227, wrote,“so, in other words e-begging.“Someone else, @Colfrmb, commented,“Omg, what a grifter.”

montage Michael Ilesanmi smiling and Angela Deem looking annoyed from 90 Day Fiancé Happily Ever After

What Does Being Called A “Grifter” Mean For Michael Ilesanmi’s Career?

Michael Is Probably Choosing A Sneaky Method To Boost His Income

Before coming to the United States, Michael made grand promises. He expressed his desire to become a successful influencer on social media and work tirelessly to entertain his fans. Michael had aspirations of achieving his American dream through hard work and dedication. Unfortunately, Michael hasn’t kept his promises. Instead of putting in the effort, he has been soliciting easy money from his fans, resorting to any means to make a quick buck. In mid-2024, Michael initiated a fundraiser to raise funds for his lawyer, requesting a large sum of $25,000.He didn’t turn off donations until he had amassed $52,000.

Michael’s TikTok battle requesting gifts post indicates that he continues to seek more from his fans. Instead of creating high-quality content, engaging in promotions, and working hard, he resorted to cheap tactics to increase his earnings without putting forth much effort. Michael is aware that he is still a popular cast member among fans, andhe’s taking advantage of his innocent public image to maximize his benefits. Michael’s TikTok battle suggests he likely never had a strategic plan for using social media and may have always intended to exploit90 Day Fiancéviewers who support him financially.

90 Day Fiance Happily Ever After Poster

Our Take On Michael Ilesanmi’s Pursuit Of “Easy Money”

Michael Was Likely Testing Out Various Ways To Generate Income

It’s unfortunate that Michael is engaging in grifting on social media, but it isn’t fair to judge his character so quickly. Michael didn’t have access to social media platforms for the last six years. He had no experience when he joined Instagram and TikTok in mid-2024. PerhapsMichael was trying different things to find his niche. He may not understand the negative implications of participating in TikTok gift battles or how to capitalize on his fame yet. The90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?alum needs at least a year to figure out a career path.

90 Day Fiancé: Before The 90 Daysairs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on TLC.

90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?

Cast

90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After? follows the lives of couples from the original 90 Day Fiancé series as they navigate married life. The show explores the challenges, cultural adjustments, and evolving relationships these couples face post-marriage. It provides an in-depth look at how their dynamics change beyond the initial 90-day visa period and continues the narrative of their pursuit of a lasting union.