Kirbie Johnson ’09 always knew she wanted to move to LA. Just 10 days after graduation, she packed up her SUV and headed west. Five years later, she’s a host and producer for POPSUGAR Beauty, a leading beauty channel online (bellasugar.com/beauty-video). She also serves on TCU’s National Alumni Board and is VP of recruitment for the Los Angeles Alumni Chapter.

“I never thought I’d be out here this long, but I can’t imagine not being here,” said Johnson, who grew up in Georgetown.

Johnson hosts four shows — a makeover show involving tips from celebrity hair and makeup artists, a beauty tutorial show, a review of the hottest beauty products and another show featuring interviews and trend reports.

Johnson appears on camera, writes scripts, creates content, hosts and sees everything through production. Her final product is posted on POPSUGAR’s website or ready to go for POPSUGAR’s new TVGN show — POPSUGAR Now.

“I love that I get to see something from start to finish. I get to come up with the idea — and really nothing is off-limits — and then see that idea come to life through a video and share it with the world,” she said.

She counts Zooey Deschanel among her favorite celebrity interviews “because we got to sit down with her for a good 20 minutes and just talk like girlfriends.” Interviewing Rihanna was also a highlight.

“We only got three questions with her, but it was a spectacle because it was during her fragrance launch so all of her fans were there. It was chaos. People were screaming, pulling her in different directions — it was the thrill of getting to interview her and see her in person.”
Long term, Johnson would like to have her own TV show.

“If I could incorporate my love of writing with being on camera, that would be ideal. I would love to have a lifestyle show kind of like Ellen.”