catapult (someone or something) into (something)
To suddenly thrust one into a particular situation or condition, often fame. That award-winning role really catapulted the actor into stardom.
catapult someone or something into something
1. Lit. to throw someone or something into a place using a catapult. The soldiers catapulted the huge stone into the fortress.
2. Fig. to thrust or force someone or something into something, such as fame, glory, front-page news, etc. The success catapulted her into the spotlight. The scandal catapulted the contractual arrangements into public scrutiny.