Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Cannes Launches Festival For Content Creators In June: What Is Lions Creators?
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has announced the launch of LIONS Creators, a pioneering event set to take place from June 18 to 20, coinciding with the renowned Cannes Lions week. This innovative festival is dedicated to influencers and those involved in the broader creator economy, offering an array of exclusive learning and networking opportunities tailored specifically for content creators. The influencer festival of Cannes will feature a curated mix of events designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among creators, platforms, brands, and agencies. With the creator economy valued at approximately $250 billion in 2023 and projected to soar to $480 billion by 2027, the timing for this festival couldn\'t be more pertinent. Simon Cook, CEO of LIONS, emphasized the importance of this gathering, stating, \"With potential growth of this scale, it’s crucial that the Festival plays a role in bringing together the platforms, the brands, the creators and the agencies, and a wider cross-section of the industry to have the most pressing conversations around how we co-create, collaborate and unlock greater value and progress for the wider industry in this space.\" The significance of creators in the marketing landscape has been steadily increasing, and their presence at the Cannes Lions Festival has grown correspondingly. Thea Skelton, VP of Events at LIONS, highlighted the collaborative nature of LIONS Creators, noting that it has been established with input from creators worldwide who recognize the value of such a convergence. \"Creators are an increasingly important part of the marketing mix, and their presence at Cannes Lions has been steadily growing for many years,\" Skelton remarked. For its inaugural year, the LIONS Creators festival has partnered with Viral Nation, a leader in social-first transformation. This collaboration promises to leverage Viral Nation’s expertise in AI-driven social marketing to enhance the festival\'s offerings. Joe Gagliese, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Viral Nation, expressed his enthusiasm: \"Creators are at the heart of everything we do at Viral Nation. By collaborating with Cannes Lions, we are not only amplifying the voices of creators but also solidifying influencer marketing\'s position as a cornerstone of social-first transformation globally.\" The festival will feature the LIONS xChange Roundtables, a series of exclusive discussions filmed in front of a live audience, bringing together key players in the creator economy to tackle the industry\'s most pressing challenges. This dynamic lineup of events will culminate in the Social & Influencer Lions Awards Show on Wednesday, celebrating the best in influencer marketing. As the Cannes Film Festival 2024 approaches, the addition of the LIONS Creators festival underscores Cannes\' commitment to embracing the evolving landscape of content creation and influencer marketing. For those interested in participating in this groundbreaking event, further information is available on the official Cannes Lions website.
Is TikTok Getting Banned In The US Today? Everything You Need To Know
The fate of TikTok in the United States remains uncertain following a recent Supreme Court decision to uphold a ban on the popular video-sharing platform. The ban, which could take effect as early as Sunday, January 19, has left millions of users wondering about the app’s future. Despite the ruling, questions linger about enforcement, political implications, and potential resolutions. The Supreme Court\'s Decision On Friday, the Supreme Court denied TikTok parent company ByteDance’s appeal, which argued that banning the app infringes on users’ First Amendment rights. While the decision represents a significant legal setback for TikTok, the situation is complicated by the Biden administration’s stance. The outgoing Democratic administration has indicated it does not intend to enforce the ban, despite having signed it into law. ByteDance issued a statement late Friday, calling for clarity from the Biden administration and the Justice Department. Without a definitive assurance that the ban won’t be enforced, the company warned that TikTok might “go dark” as early as Sunday. What Time Could TikTok Shut Down? If the ban is enforced, TikTok could be removed from app stores and blocked by service providers after 12:01 a.m. ET on January 19. However, cybersecurity experts have pointed out the logistical uncertainty surrounding the implementation of such a ban. Theresa Payton, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of Fortalice Solutions, described the situation as “uncharted territory,” noting that no one can predict how the ban will unfold until the deadline passes. The Ban’s Political Context TikTok has been a point of contention in U.S.-China relations for years. Former President Donald Trump first raised concerns in 2020, citing national security risks associated with ByteDance’s Chinese ownership. Trump claimed that TikTok could potentially share U.S. user data with the Chinese government, enabling surveillance and espionage. Despite multiple attempts to ban the app during his first term, legal challenges thwarted Trump’s efforts. President Joe Biden revisited the issue in 2021, issuing an executive order that highlighted ongoing concerns about data security and foreign influence. In December 2022, Biden signed legislation banning TikTok on government devices, laying the groundwork for the broader ban passed by Congress in April 2024. The bipartisan legislation, which was part of a larger foreign aid package, received overwhelming support in both the House and Senate. Lawmakers cited classified briefings that underscored the risks posed by TikTok, arguing that the app could be used to spread propaganda or collect sensitive information on Americans. What Happens to TikTok Now? President-elect Donald Trump, who assumes office soon, has suggested there may be a path forward for TikTok. On Friday, Trump hinted on his Truth Social platform that he is exploring options to keep the app operational in the U.S. This could involve ByteDance finding a buyer for TikTok’s U.S. operations or restructuring the company’s management to satisfy national security concerns. One prominent name mentioned in connection with a potential deal is Elon Musk. Wedbush Securities analyst Daniel Ives speculated that Musk could purchase TikTok’s U.S. operations or facilitate an agreement that addresses security issues. Musk’s ties to the Trump administration and business experience could make him a viable candidate to oversee such a transaction. The Role of TikTok’s Leadership TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew addressed users directly in a video posted Friday, reassuring them that the platform is committed to remaining a hub for creativity and connection. “We will do everything in our power to ensure TikTok thrives as your online home for limitless creativity and discovery,” Chew said. However, the company’s ability to navigate the legal and political landscape remains uncertain. Analysts believe that behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing to strike a deal that would allow TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. Will TikTok Be Banned? While the Supreme Court ruling marks a critical juncture in TikTok’s legal battles, enforcement of the ban is not guaranteed. Experts believe the Trump administration may delay implementation or instruct the Justice Department to avoid enforcement while pursuing a resolution. The coming days will likely bring more clarity as the administration, TikTok, and stakeholders work to determine the app’s fate. For now, TikTok’s future in the U.S. hangs in the balance, leaving millions of users anxiously awaiting updates.
Forner Child Influencer Shari Franke Recalls Abuse From Mother\’s YouTube Channel
Former child influencer Shari Franke recently opened up about the dark side of family vlogging, shedding light on the trauma she endured growing up on her mother’s popular YouTube channel, \"8 Passengers.\" Her mother, Ruby Franke, who ran the channel from 2015, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for aggravated child abuse after pleading guilty to abusing her 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter. Shari testified to U.S. lawmakers, revealing the exploitation behind the seemingly wholesome family content. She explained that being part of \"8 Passengers\" went beyond merely sharing moments of family life; it was a full-scale business operation with employees, credit cards, managers, and marketing strategies. Shari, now an adult, described the immense pressure she faced as a child influencer, where privacy was sacrificed for content and every vulnerable moment was made public for views. One particularly troubling aspect of Shari’s experience was the use of money as a means to coerce her participation in videos. She recounted instances where she was paid $100 or promised a shopping trip in exchange for filming embarrassing moments. \"Some of our most popular videos were when my eyebrow was accidentally waxed off,\" Shari shared. \"The world saw a crying teenager who just wanted to mourn in private.\" These so-called \"rewards\" left Shari questioning the true cost of her childhood, which she felt was sold for online engagement and financial gain. As Shari continued her testimony, she argued that there is no ethical justification for monetizing children’s lives on the internet, asking, \"What price is worth giving up your childhood?\" Despite the financial compensation she received, Shari admitted that if given a choice, she would prefer an \"empty bank account\" over having her private life exposed to millions of strangers. Shari’s efforts now focus on raising awareness about the exploitation of children in family vlogging. She is advocating for stronger regulations to protect young influencers and aims to end the harmful practice of using children’s lives as entertainment for profit. The downfall of Ruby Franke and the \"8 Passengers\" channel exposed the darker side of family content on social media. The abuse came to light when Ruby’s 12-year-old son escaped from the home of Jodi Hildebrandt, Ruby’s business partner, and sought help from a neighbor. The child was found malnourished and covered in wounds, leading to the discovery of similar mistreatment of Ruby’s 10-year-old daughter. Both women were subsequently sentenced to 30 years in prison, bringing an end to a disturbing chapter in the world of family vlogging.
Influencer Degree Now Being Offered In A University In Ireland
In Carlow, Ireland, a new academic path is opening doors for aspiring influencers, with South East Technological University (SETU) offering a groundbreaking bachelor\'s degree in \"Content Creation and Social Media.\" This four-year program aims to teach students how to turn their online presence on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube into viable revenue streams, addressing the growing interest among Gen Z in becoming social media personalities. The degree is led by Irene McCormick, a former television producer who noticed the rising demand for influencer education. It all began with a summer course called \"Digital Hustle,\" which brought together industry professionals and attracted 350 applicants for only 30 spots. Seeing the high interest, McCormick expanded the program into a full-fledged degree, which welcomed its first 15 students in September 2024. Students at SETU aren\'t just learning to post selfies or record videos—they are diving deep into what makes content impactful and how to target demographics effectively. The curriculum includes modules on creative video production, storytelling psychology, data analytics, entrepreneurship, and even celebrity studies. Practical skills such as camera and microphone use, along with work placements, prepare students for the multifaceted world of content creation. Many students in the program already have a background in digital content. For example, 18-year-old hairdresser Favour Ehuchie hopes to grow her TikTok and Instagram following by learning how to monetize her hairstyle posts, while equestrian Marta Hughes Bravo sees the course as a way to enhance her career prospects in the equine industry, where social media skills are in demand. The appeal of the program reflects a broader cultural shift: surveys show many Gen Z youths would consider careers as vloggers, YouTubers, or streamers. Influencers like MrBeast and KSI have popularized the field, turning their massive online followings into lucrative careers through sponsored posts, brand partnerships, and advertisements. However, McCormick emphasizes that being an influencer is more than just posting videos. “There’s a misconception that it’s easy, but it involves editing, planning, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work,” she explains. The course not only builds skills for social media but also boosts confidence and offers career versatility. As influencer marketing becomes a mainstream strategy for businesses and even governments, programs like SETU’s are setting the stage for the next generation of digital entrepreneurs.
Liam Payne Cause Of Death: Did Diddy Scandal Played A Role? Social Media Reacts
Liam Payne\'s untimely death on October 16, 2024, sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. The former One Direction member was found dead outside a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, after reportedly falling from a third-floor balcony. Authorities revealed that emergency services responded to reports of an \"aggressive man possibly under the influence\" at the hotel, located in the Palermo neighborhood. Despite attempts to save him, Payne was pronounced dead at the scene. He had been in Argentina following a concert by his former bandmate, Niall Horan, and had recently posted about enjoying his time in the country. Payne had been open about his struggles with substance abuse and mental health, which plagued him during and after his time with One Direction. In a 2021 interview on The Diary of a CEO podcast, he candidly discussed the toll fame had taken on his life, admitting to severe battles with alcohol and drug addiction. At one point, Payne described his darkest moments as a \"pills-and-booze phase\" that began during the height of the band\'s fame, often exacerbated by isolation in hotel rooms and easy access to mini-bars. He also revealed that his mental health deteriorated to the extent that he experienced \"severe\" suicidal thoughts, a struggle he kept largely private. Though Payne had made significant strides toward sobriety in recent years, even reaching over 100 days of sobriety in May 2023, his journey was not without setbacks. The COVID-19 lockdown exacerbated his challenges, leading him to relapse before finding his footing again with the help of recovery programs and support from comedian Russell Brand. His recent achievements gave fans hope that he was finally overcoming his demons. A question that has arisen in the wake of Payne\'s passing is whether the 2017 encounter with music mogul Diddy, which Payne described as the \"most daunting celebrity experience\" of his life, played any role in his struggles. Payne had recounted how Diddy’s unsettling laughter during their introduction left him feeling uneasy, saying, \"I’m a little bit fearful of that man.\" While the encounter alone is unlikely to have directly influenced Payne’s addiction issues, it illustrates how even seemingly minor events can leave lasting emotional scars, potentially contributing to the mental health challenges he faced. Social Media Reacts Following the shocking news of Liam Payne\'s death, social media quickly filled with an outpouring of grief, disbelief, and heartfelt tributes. Fans, fellow celebrities, and public figures took to platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to express their sadness and remember the singer\'s legacy. Many fans shared emotional posts, with the hashtag #RIPLIAMPAYNE trending worldwide. One Twitter user wrote, \"I grew up listening to Liam’s voice, and now he\'s gone. I can’t believe it. Rest easy, Liam.\" Another fan shared a clip from one of Payne’s interviews, captioning it, \"He was finally finding peace…this is heartbreaking.\" Messages highlighting Payne\'s positive influence on their lives were also common, with posts reflecting how his openness about addiction and mental health inspired many to seek help for their own struggles. Among celebrities, former One Direction bandmates expressed their shock and sorrow. Niall Horan, who had recently performed in Argentina where Payne attended, tweeted, \"Absolutely gutted. Liam had a heart of gold, and I’m thankful for all the memories we shared. My thoughts are with his family.\" Harry Styles shared a black-and-white photo of the band in their early days, accompanied by a broken heart emoji. MTV Latin America and other music networks also paid tribute, with MTV posting, \"We are devastated by the news of Liam Payne\'s passing. He was not only a gifted musician but a symbol of strength for many. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.\" Fellow musicians like Shawn Mendes and Louis Tomlinson also expressed their condolences, with Mendes tweeting, \"Gone too soon. Wishing his family strength in this unimaginable time.\" Critically, some social media reactions turned their focus to Payne\'s history of substance abuse and mental health struggles. One user wrote, \"We lost another young artist to addiction. When will we start taking mental health seriously?\" The sentiment resonated widely, with many calling for greater awareness and support for individuals facing similar issues.
Temu Affiliate Influencer: How To Make Money Via the Platform
If you\'ve heard of Temu, you\'re not alone. The online marketplace has gained attention for its wide range of low-priced products, with some people cautioning against getting lured in by its seemingly unbelievable deals. However, Temu’s growing popularity, backed by major marketing efforts like Super Bowl ads, has led to the launch of an affiliate influencer program. But how does this program work, and can you really make money through it? How the Temu Affiliate Program Works Temu is actively seeking social media influencers to join its Temu Influencer Program. The goal is for influencers to promote Temu products to their audience, inspiring purchases and driving traffic to the platform. To participate, influencers need to apply through the Temu website, and the company reviews each application based on follower count and engagement levels. Influencers with larger audiences are more likely to receive better rewards. Once accepted, influencers are provided with unique affiliate links and discount codes that they can share with their followers. Approved influencers can choose campaigns and products they’re interested in, which they’ll receive for free. After reviewing and posting about the products (in line with Temu\'s guidelines), influencers can start earning. Temu promises rewards such as store credits and cash, with benefits including a $5 reward per referral download and commissions of up to 20%. Is Temu’s Affiliate Program Legit? The prospect of free products and cash rewards seems appealing, but is it too good to be true? Temu, despite its \"Shop Like a Billionaire\" slogan, has faced criticism regarding data privacy and customer satisfaction, leading some to question its legitimacy. However, when it comes to receiving free products, the program does seem genuine. Numerous influencers, especially on TikTok, have shared their experiences showcasing free items from Temu. The question of cash rewards, however, remains unclear. While Temu claims influencers can earn cash, much of the feedback from participants points to store credits and free products rather than hard cash. Although some affiliates might earn money, the lack of substantial evidence about consistent cash payouts raises some doubts. If you\'re considering joining Temu’s affiliate program, it’s worth being mindful of the potential pitfalls. The free products are real, but the cash rewards may not be as straightforward.
Meet The Trad-Husbands: The Men Behind the Successful Trad-Wives Influencers
The concept of the traditional wife, or \"tradwife,\" has taken social media by storm, with women presenting themselves as the epitome of domestic bliss while upholding what they claim are biblically-rooted gender roles. Behind these viral women, however, stand the \"trad-husbands\"—men who occupy a central yet often overlooked role in this movement. While their wives cook, clean, and nurture, trad-husbands are portrayed as the breadwinners and protectors. But who are these men really, and what role do they play in this online spectacle? The Rise of Tradwife Influencers With millions of followers, women like Nara Aziza Smith, Lauren Eberspacher, and Estee Williams have become household names for their portrayal of idealized, 1950s-style homemaking. These tradwives use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to promote an idyllic, highly gendered lifestyle that embraces modesty, home-cooked meals, and child-rearing as their divine calling. Nara Aziza, for instance, boasts over 9 million followers on TikTok, while Estee Williams garners attention with her tutorials on being a \"biblically submissive\" wife. These influencers have drawn both admiration and criticism for glorifying a lifestyle that critics argue is outdated, or even oppressive. Yet, their reach continues to grow, and at the heart of their online presence are their husbands—men who often occupy supporting roles both in the home and in the digital content their wives produce. Who Are the Trad-Husbands? These husbands, like Lucky Blue Smith, Eric Eberspacher, and Conner Williams, are central to the narrative of the tradwife movement, but their roles are complicated. Often, they are portrayed as the breadwinners and decision-makers in their households, yet it is clear that the financial and social success of their families rests largely on their wives\' online empires. Take Lucky Blue Smith, the husband of Nara Aziza, who became a social media sensation after being discovered as a model at the age of 10. While Lucky once garnered his own fanbase, it is now his wife, Nara, who drives the family\'s social media presence. In many of Nara\'s videos, Lucky appears in the background, often seen in casual outfits and retro styling that enhances the traditional, 1950s aesthetic of their brand. Although he contributes to their lifestyle, it\'s clear that Nara is the true star of the show, and possibly the higher earner. Similarly, Eric Eberspacher, husband to Lauren, met his wife in college and quickly bonded over their shared Christian values. While Lauren initially pursued a career in nursing, she fully embraced the role of a tradwife after marriage, choosing to homeschool their children and run the household while Eric provided financially. Yet, despite this seemingly traditional setup, Lauren has also amassed a significant following on social media, often sharing insights into their marriage and home life with her audience. Like many tradwives, Lauren’s online presence offers a glimpse into the domestic sphere, but it also raises questions about who is truly benefiting from this arrangement. The Gender Dynamics of the Trad-Life On the surface, these marriages appear to adhere strictly to gendered roles: the husband as the protector and provider, and the wife as the submissive homemaker. However, the growing popularity of tradwife influencers has complicated this dynamic. In many cases, it is the wives who bring in substantial incomes through brand deals, social media sponsorships, and content creation, while their husbands remain in the background, lending support but often overshadowed by their wives\' fame. Conner Williams, for example, has publicly stated that men are born to lead, but his wife, Estee, often seems to take center stage in their public life. With her Stepford-like persona, Estee explains the principles of biblical submission to her followers, but her social media earnings likely eclipse any income that Conner brings home. The Trad-Husband Paradox While trad-husbands may see themselves as the leaders of their families, it is clear that the financial and public power often lies with their wives. This paradox is at the heart of the tradwife movement\'s appeal—and its controversy. In a world where traditional values are presented as the solution to modern societal ills, it is the tradwives who often hold the most influence, both in the home and online. Meanwhile, the trad-husbands must navigate a unique reality where their wives\' success may upend the very gender roles they claim to uphold. As the tradwife trend continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how the men behind these influencers evolve alongside their successful partners. While some trad-husbands fully embrace their supportive roles, others may find themselves grappling with the shifting dynamics in their marriages, where the balance of power may not be as traditional as it first appears.
What Happened To Influencers Who Stayed Behind During Hurricane Milton?
Several influencers decided to ride out Hurricane Milton rather than evacuate, and among the most notable was Caroline Calloway, often referred to as the “world’s worst influencer.” Despite dire warnings, the 32-year-old shared a series of dramatic Instagram posts as the storm bore down on Florida. “So if you’ve been following Hurricane Milton, I’m going to die,” Calloway declared in her Instagram Story on October 8, making light of the life-threatening situation. Hurricane Milton, which struck Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm before weakening to a Category 1, brought significant danger to those in its path. Calloway, however, made the bold decision to stay behind in her Sarasota home despite a mandatory evacuation order. The National Hurricane Center had issued warnings, and many residents took heed, but Calloway refused to budge. In her posts, Calloway shared several reasons for her decision, noting that she couldn’t drive and that the local airport had closed before she had the chance to leave. She also recounted a previous evacuation experience during Hurricane Ian, when she fled to her mother’s house in Northport. According to Calloway, that evacuation was more traumatic than helpful. “The whole street was flooded, and after three days without power or running water, the US military had to evacuate us,” she explained. Though she admitted to feeling some concern—especially since her beachfront home placed her directly in the path of the storm—Calloway ultimately stood firm in her decision. She expressed her frustration with evacuating to her mother’s home during past hurricanes, describing it as one of the worst experiences of her life, which further solidified her resolve to stay behind. Her social media presence during the hurricane generated a mix of reactions. Some followers were concerned, while others found her posts sensationalized and irresponsible. Meanwhile, other influencers, like Anderson Cooper, who covered the storm from a safer distance, faced their own challenges as he was hit by flying debris during a live broadcast. In the end, Calloway survived the storm, but her decision to remain in Florida despite evacuation orders has left many questioning the lengths some influencers will go for content.
Skinny Influencer Banned on TikTok Mocks Backlash, Promotes Dangerous Eating Disorder
Liv Schmidt, a 22-year-old influencer recently banned from TikTok for promoting unhealthy lifestyle choices, is once again under fire, this time for her controversial money-saving hack: purchasing clothing from the children\'s section. Schmidt\'s online presence has been criticized for glamorizing disordered eating and perpetuating harmful body image ideals. Schmidt was removed from TikTok in late September due to her promotion of a dangerously thin aesthetic and her endorsement of extreme weight-loss methods. Her content has consistently featured meals that reflect an unhealthy relationship with food, including her notorious \"skinny girl breakfast,\" which consists solely of protein shakes and electrolyte mixes, as outlined in her Amazon List. Critics argue that her videos promote unrealistic and harmful standards of beauty. In her latest video, Schmidt flaunted a skirt she bought from Zara\'s children\'s line, boasting a price difference of $35 compared to the adult version. “The biggest money-saving hack when shopping is children’s clothing,” she stated, noting that designer kids\' shirts often cost significantly less than their adult counterparts. She referred to a $200 shirt designed for children compared to a $1,000 adult version. This money-saving tip, while practical in theory, drew ire from many who found her approach problematic given her history of promoting an unhealthy lifestyle. After facing backlash for her purchasing advice, Schmidt pivoted her content to discuss obesity in America, all while drawing attention to her own physique. In a video showcasing her outfit, she declared, “In a world where you can be anything, be skinni,” implying that her flat stomach was her ultimate accessory. To further evade content moderation, Schmidt has started using the misspelled term “skinni” in her posts. While she attempts to present herself as a savvy shopper, many users on platforms like X have called out her troubling influence on impressionable audiences. One user remarked, “I like her tips, but she is an awful person. She said some vile things in our skinny girl group chat.” Another echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Liv Schmidt triggers me so much, and this video is definitely going to stay stuck in my head.” These comments highlight the growing concern over the potential impact of her content on young viewers, particularly those struggling with their body image. Despite the criticism, Schmidt continues to maintain that she has never struggled with an eating disorder. However, she does acknowledge feeling uncomfortable in her body due to her generalized anxiety disorder since childhood. This admission raises questions about her understanding of mental health and its connection to body image, especially given her promotion of potentially dangerous behaviors. The online community remains divided over Schmidt’s content. While some applaud her shopping hacks, many others express concern about the underlying messages in her videos. The backlash she faces underscores the responsibility influencers hold in shaping perceptions of health, beauty, and self-worth among their followers. As discussions about body positivity and mental health gain traction, it is crucial for social media platforms to reevaluate how they handle content that promotes unhealthy lifestyles.
Death Of Chinese Influencer Who Took Risky Drive For Views Sparks Debate
The tragic death of Chinese influencer Shi Gao Pro Max, known for her daring motorcycle stunts, has ignited a heated discussion on the lengths some influencers go for online attention. Shi, who had garnered a large following for her thrill-seeking content, lost her life in a motorcycle accident while live-streaming a high-speed ride. Her sudden death has raised concerns about the dangers of performing risky activities for the sake of views. Shi Gao Pro Max was admired for her bold personality and love for motorcycles, frequently sharing videos of her adrenaline-pumping rides. However, her tragic accident highlights the potential consequences of pursuing extreme content to maintain or grow an online following. Some argue that the increasing pressure to attract viewers is leading influencers to engage in more dangerous behaviors, often at the cost of their safety. This incident has triggered a wave of debate on Chinese social media, with many users questioning the ethics of promoting content that encourages dangerous stunts. Some netizens criticized the social media platforms for not doing enough to regulate or discourage risky behavior, while others expressed concern that influencers might feel forced to take greater risks to stand out in a competitive market. As the news of Shi’s death spread, some commentators called for more responsibility from both influencers and platforms. Calls for stricter regulations on content that promotes dangerous activities have become louder, with many suggesting that platforms should implement stronger safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Despite her unfortunate passing, Shi Gao Pro Max’s legacy has become a stark reminder of the fine line between entertainment and recklessness. The tragedy has not only touched the hearts of her fans but also sparked a necessary conversation about the ethics and responsibilities involved in content creation in the digital age. Her death serves as a sobering example of the risks associated with seeking online fame through dangerous activities, with many now calling for changes in how such content is regulated. As social media continues to evolve, so does the conversation about the responsibilities of both content creators and the platforms they use.
Plus Company Agencies Introduce New Influencer Marketing Model
Two agencies under the Plus Company umbrella, Citizen Relations and Mekanism, are enhancing their influencer marketing offerings with a new model called Performfluence. This innovative solution merges brand-building strategies with performance marketing, making it a comprehensive tool for clients looking to optimize their influencer campaigns. Citizen Relations, a global communications agency, and Mekanism, a full-service ad agency, have collaborated to create Performfluence. This influencer marketing solution is being delivered through their digital innovation teams, blending expertise in strategy, activation, and data intelligence to provide a holistic approach to influencer marketing. Performfluence was soft-launched last year, with both agencies testing different models with a variety of influencers. Currently, four clients are using the system to drive new member acquisitions and increase direct sales to brick-and-mortar outlets. Notable clients like Coast Capital and Ovega have also adopted the model, indicating the system\'s growing appeal. According to Crystalyn Stuart-Loayza, Chief Digital Officer for both Citizen and Mekanism, Performfluence is a fusion of performance marketing and brand building, providing clients with a flexible and data-driven tool for influencer campaigns. While Mekanism focuses on influencer partnerships that drive top-of-funnel engagement, Citizen Relations handles PR and credentialing strategies, creating a dynamic blend of expertise. One of the standout features of Performfluence is its ability to leverage data and AI to optimize influencer campaigns in real time. The system analyzes influencer performance from the pre-selection phase, identifying key areas for optimization like search relevance and content focus. It also allows for campaign adjustments based on measurable results, ensuring that clients receive maximum value from their influencer partnerships. Stuart-Loayza emphasized the importance of balancing creative firepower with data-driven decisions, noting that focusing solely on reach or content quality can limit the overall value of influencer marketing efforts. The digital practice has grown rapidly, expanding to a team of 22 in less than two years due to rising client demand for data-backed outcomes. As influencer marketing continues to evolve, agencies like Citizen Relations and Mekanism are positioning themselves at the forefront of this trend with tools like Performfluence, aiming to deliver both brand impact and measurable performance.
