He’s completely over the situation that’s why he is here for your appreciation. Gianluca Conte (QCP)

Gianluca Conte, known as QCP (Queen City Prince), is a TikTok sensation. His journey appears to be nothing short of destiny itself. Raised in Charlotte (known as Queen City), North Carolina, he grew up deeply connected to Italian tradition amidst the rich cultural flavours of his father’s Italian heritage. His father, Augusto Conte, who had emigrated from the idyllic island of Ischia near Naples, Italy, brought with him a treasure trove of recipes and an unwavering spirit. Yet, despite growing up in the heart of his father’s Italian restaurants, Gianluca found himself initially drawn towards an entirely different pursuit: the world of entertainment. 

Gianluca always had a rare gift for drawing people in, making them laugh, and captivating those around him. After finishing school, he enrolled at the University of North Carolina, where he discovered a love for music. However, university life didn’t quite sit well with him, and he began to work alongside his father, taking on roles wherever he could and learning the nuances of hospitality. “I loved making someone’s day just a little bit brighter,” he recalls. Yet, as fate would have it, he soon found himself on a new stage that would propel him in a direction he had never anticipated.

His entrée into TikTok came from a friend’s suggestion, and it quickly revealed an entirely new avenue for his creative expression. Within a short time, he found his following multiplying, and earlyin 2020, a single video shifted everything. In it, he appeared in a tank top and necklace, adopting a humorous, exaggerated “New Jersey Italian” character while preparing pasta. This singular performance struck a chord, going viral. Gianluca realised he had discovered something unique: a way to merge his father’s Italian culinary heritage with his unmistakable flair for entertainment.

Gianluca realised he had discovered something unique: a way to merge his father’s Italian culinary heritage with his unmistakable flair for entertainment.

Since then, Gianluca’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Today, with over 12.9 million followers and his cookbook, “Italian American – It’s A QCP Cookbook Betch”, he has created a space that celebrates traditional Italian recipes with Italian American creations, fusing authenticity with personality. “I am following in my father’s footsteps, but in a modern way,” he says, a nod to his father’s remarkable restaurant success and sacrifices to create a new life for the family in America.

Of course, such a journey has come with its fair share of challenges. Managing the attention of millions can be daunting, but Gianluca has come to view feedback as part of his evolution. His most significant hurdle lies in remaining creative and unpredictable. “I love keeping my audience on their toes,” he confides. To avoid creative stagnation, he continually seeks new ideas—whether experimenting in a fresh setting, introducing a novel recipe, or crafting an unexpected twist.

His creative process, as one might expect, is refreshingly unorthodox. “If I’m not in the right mood, the video won’t be good,” he states, embracing the spontaneity of unscripted, unpolished content. Each video captures his energy and distinct humour, and he insists on using his iPhone to retain an authentic, approachable feel. Recently, he’s enlisted a friend to assist with filming, though he remains deeply involved in editing to ensure each piece reflects his unique touch.

Now settled in Los Angeles, Gianluca balances work and personal life, finding inspiration in a city teeming with creativity. His family, steadfast in their support, has grounded him throughout his journey, allowing him to stay connected to his roots. Gianluca takes pride in re-engaging with his father’s Italian heritage, learning more about Italian culinary traditions, and sharing that knowledge with his audience. His cookbook marks this journey’s first step, capturing Italian and Italian American dishes that resonate with his story.

As he looks to the future, Gianluca’s ambitions extend far beyond cooking. He is poised to delve into music, acting, and perhaps even fashion. “I’ve got the wild, shirtless chef persona down,” he chuckles, “but I’m also excited to reveal other parts of who I am.” The horizon beckons, and he shows no sign of slowing down.

It’s impossible not to sense a new legend in the making. With his singular blend of charisma, cultural pride, and creative brilliance, Gianluca Conte is crafting a legacy all his own. If he continues on this path, he will leave an indelible mark on the culinary and entertainment worlds in a way that only he can.