Susan Boyle's amateur singing performance of "I Dreamed a Dream" on Britain's Got Talent became an instant international viral sensation after being viewed over 26 million times on YouTube within a week, far surpassing any other video on the site. Although Boyle is an ordinary 47-year old woman without acting experience, her emotional performance prompted widespread discussion on social media sites and interest from global news outlets due to its heartfelt message about pursuing one's dreams. The viral spread of Boyle's talent show clip has highlighted how new technologies like YouTube and social networks have changed the speed at which compelling unknown talents can achieve worldwide fame.