Ex-OnlyFans Founder's Startup Zoop Joins Crypto Foundation in Bold Bid to Acquire Tik Tok

A new startup founded by Tim Stokely, the entrepreneur behind adult content platform OnlyFans, has teamed up with cryptocurrency leaders to submit a last-minute bid for TikTok. Zoop, Stokely's family-friendly social media venture, and the Hbar Foundation-which oversees the Hedera blockchain's treasury-confirmed their acquisition proposal on Wednesday.

The bid was formally submitted to the White House this week, positioning Zoop as a surprise contender in the high-stakes battle for Tik Tok's U.S. operations. Unlike OnlyFans, Zoop emphasizes mainstream appeal, rewarding content creators with the majority of its revenue.

A New Vision for TikTok: Empowering Creators & Communities

"Our bid isn't just about ownership-it's about reshaping the platform so creators and users directly benefit from the value they generate," said RJ Phillips, Zoop's co-founder, in an interview with Reuters. The company has reportedly assembled a consortium of investors, though Phillips declined to disclose further details.

The move comes as Amazon (AMZN.O) also submitted a late offer for TikTok, according to the New York Times. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is set to review proposals that will determine the future of the app, which boasts 170 million U.S. users.

TikTok's Looming Deadline: Sell or Face U.S. Ban

ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, faces an April 5 deadline to either divest its U.S. operations or risk a nationwide ban under a bipartisan U.S. law enacted in January. The legislation stems from national security concerns, with lawmakers fearing Beijing could exploit TikTok for data surveillance or influence campaigns.

TikTok and free speech advocates argue that a ban would violate the First Amendment, restricting Americans' access to global media. Trump has delayed enforcement to allow negotiations, hinting at possible extensions if a deal appears imminent.

Who Else Is in the Running?

Reports suggest discussions have centered on ByteDance's major non-Chinese investors increasing their stakes to take over Tik Tok's U.S. segment. Last month, Trump noted his administration was engaging with four potential buyer groups, though he did not name them.

With Zoop's unexpected entry and Amazon's last-minute bid, the battle for TikTok is heating up-and the outcome could redefine social media's future.