Josie Totah and Karan Brar—two beloved co-stars from the Disney Channel series Jessie—recently sent the internet buzzing with excitement when they shared what seemed like the cutest TikTok video of 2025. The clip, which Totah posted on January 12, showcased the duo cuddling and sharing a kiss, all set to Lana Del Rey's "Brooklyn Baby." Fans, who remembered their on-screen camaraderie, immediately jumped to conclusions, believing the pair might be dating.
But hold on! Before the internet could spiral out of control with speculation, Totah swiftly deleted the original TikTok and took to the platform again to clarify the situation, stating emphatically, "WE ARE TWO PLATONIC FRIENDS WHO DANCED A LITTLE TOO CLOSE TO THE SUN," as she laughed off the misunderstanding.
Totah's clarification revealed the kiss was all part of an inside joke, and she reiterated several times, "It was a joke! It was a joke! It was a joke!" Surprisingly, these playful antics managed to light up social media, generating mixed feelings from their fans. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans shared their feelings ranging from sheer joy to disappointment, demonstrating just how much this duo is loved by their followers.
Backtracking to July 2024, it's worth noting Brar had sparked intrigue earlier when he shared an Instagram post featuring himself with Totah, captioned "people, places, and things." The image suggested they were enjoying what could be perceived as a date night, prompting more speculation about their relationship status. Fans eagerly flooded the comment section, trying to decipher their romantic status—an ode to their enduring chemistry from the Jessie era.
For those unaware, Jessie aired from 2011 to 2015 and centered on the ups and downs faced by the titular nanny who cared for four affluent kids. Totah portrayed Stuart Wooten, who harbored feelings for Zuri, played by Skai Jackson, and Brar took on the role of Ravi Ross, known for his quirky, intelligent character. The appeal of their characters only amplified the affection fans had for the two actors off-screen.
Beyond their acting careers, Totah and Brar's personal stories provide insight. Josie Totah, who identified as transgender publicly since her essay for TIME titled “My Name Is Josie Totah – And I’m Ready to Be Free,” has long been an advocate for trans rights. She recalled her childhood feelings, sharing, "When I was five, long before I understood what the word gender meant, I would always tell my mother..." Her influence and courage resonate well beyond her Disney roots.
Meanwhile, Brar opened up about his mental health and his coming out as bisexual through his heartfelt essay published in Teen Vogue, stating, "They said my bisexuality changed nothing for them." These candid revelations paint the picture of two individuals who have remained close friends through their different life experiences.
Despite their declaration of friendship, the kiss revealed on TikTok sparked nostalgic feelings within the fanbase, many of whom expressed how their childhood memories revived their enthusiasm for the Jessie days.
One fan tweeted, "Josie Totah and Karan Brar from Jessie????? RAVI AND STUART??? OH MY GODDDDD IM SO HAPPY FOR THEM IM GAGGGGGED," encapsulating the elation and chaos the darkly humorous kiss sparked within the fandom.
Others were confused, jokingly questioning how one could kiss their best friend "as a joke." The engagement on social media shows the power of nostalgia, especially for fans who grew up watching Totah and Brar's youthful shenanigans on-screen.
For now, Totah and Brar seem content with their close friendship, keeping fans guessing about the closeness they continue to share. While Totah's follow-up video reassured fans of the platonic nature of their relationship, the undeniable chemistry between them continues to intrigue many. The playful TikTok moment amplifies the speculation surrounding their bond—whether or not there is something more bubbling beneath the surface remains unresolved, ensuring fans will continue to watch closely for any hints about these beloved stars.
Looking back, it's clear this is primarily about the connection so many feel with their past, the fond recollections of Jessie, and the way Totah and Brar have navigated their individual journeys since those days. The viral TikTok may have just been for laughs, but it definitely reignited the flames of intrigue on their real-life relationship—platonic or not!