Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Influencers Who Turn Off Comments Seen As Less Sincere, Likable: Harvard Study
Recent research by Freeman Wu and Michelle Daniels reveals that when online influencers disable social media comments, they may unintentionally harm their personal brands. While turning off comments might seem like a reasonable way to protect oneself from online negativity, the study found that this action often leads to perceptions of the influencer as less sincere, likable, and persuasive and could affect the direction of their influencer marketing. This outcome can have significant implications for influencers, particularly in terms of their effectiveness in promoting products and maintaining their audience\'s trust. The research, which included seven studies of influencer marketing strategy, began with an analysis of Twitter (now X) posts that mentioned influencers turning off comments. Compared to other posts, these tweets exhibited a more negative sentiment. Subsequent experiments showed that social media users rated influencers lower when comments were disabled, even when all other factors remained constant. Participants were also less inclined to engage with products endorsed by influencers who had disabled comments, showing a 9% drop in interest compared to those who saw posts with comments enabled. The study highlights that consumers value the ability to express their opinions and view it as a sign of an influencer\'s openness and sincerity. This perceived \"consumer voice\" is crucial for establishing a sense of intimacy and trust between influencers and their followers. When influencers disable comments, they may inadvertently signal that they are not open to feedback, which can lead to a decrease in their likability and persuasiveness. Moreover, the research suggests that disabling comments can be more damaging than leaving negative comments visible. While influencers might think that turning off comments shields their reputation from further harm, the opposite is often true. The study found that viewers perceived influencers who disabled comments as less sincere and likable than those who left negative comments visible. However, the researchers noted that the backlash against disabling comments could be mitigated if influencers are transparent about their reasons, such as taking a break for mental health. When influencers acknowledge their need for a break or explain their actions, their audiences are more likely to be understanding and supportive. In conclusion, while disabling comments might offer short-term relief from negativity, it can have long-term consequences for an influencer’s personal brand. Wu and Daniels emphasize that influencers should carefully consider the potential impacts of this decision and, if necessary, communicate transparently with their audience to maintain trust and credibility. Understanding these dynamics can help influencers make more informed choices that benefit both their well-being and professional success.
Truck Driver Distracted By TikTok Videos Gets 20-Year Sentence For Killing 5 In Crash
An Arizona truck driver, Danny Tiner, 38, was sentenced to 22½ years in prison after pleading guilty to five counts of negligent homicide for a fatal crash that occurred in January 2023. The crash, which took place on Interstate 10 in Chandler, Arizona, resulted in the deaths of five people. Tiner was found to have been distracted by watching TikTok videos while driving his tractor-trailer at 68 mph in a 55 mph construction zone, leading to a tragedy now widely discussed as the \"Arizona truck driver TikTok\" incident. The fatal crash, which occurred on January 12, 2023, in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10, a major highway southeast of Phoenix, has sparked significant public concern about the dangers of distracted driving, particularly when social media is involved. At the time, a portion of the road was closed due to an earlier crash involving multiple semi-trucks. Tiner’s distraction, due to TikTok, led to a six-vehicle collision, which included two commercial vehicles. The Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Maricopa County Attorney\'s Office conducted a thorough investigation, ultimately determining that Tiner was responsible for the crash, which has been referred to by many as the \"TikTok death\" case. Tiner was arrested on June 29, 2023, after the investigation revealed the extent of his negligence. He was initially charged with multiple offenses, including five counts of manslaughter, four counts of endangerment, and one count of tampering with physical evidence. However, he later pleaded guilty to five counts of negligent homicide. For each count, he will serve 4½ years consecutively, totaling 22½ years in prison. Tiner will receive credit for the 415 days he spent in jail prior to sentencing. The investigation revealed that Tiner was not only speeding in the construction zone but was also distracted by his cellphone, specifically by the TikTok application, at the time of the crash. He admitted to looking at a message on his electronic work tablet, and by the time he looked back at the road, traffic had stopped. Tiner was unable to react in time to avoid the collision. The Arizona Department of Public Safety emphasized that this case marks the first time in the department\'s history that a driver has been convicted for causing a fatal collision while distracted by social media. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell highlighted the recklessness of Tiner’s actions, stating, “As a driver, you have an obligation to pay attention to the road. To choose to access social media while driving, placing the lives of others on the line is reckless.” Mitchell acknowledged that while the justice system cannot heal the pain of the five families who lost loved ones, it can ensure accountability. Tiner’s sentencing serves as a sobering reminder of the severe consequences of distracted driving, particularly in the context of the growing influence of platforms like TikTok.
Paralympics TikTok Account Is Winning Social Media With \’Borderline\’ Content
The Paralympics\' TikTok account has gained significant attention for its bold and edgy content, offering an unconventional look at the lives of disabled athletes as they prepare for the Paralympics 2024. With over 4.5 million followers, the account has become a hub for videos that blend humor with the realities of Parasport. One viral video features an armless swimmer bumping his head against the pool wall to Dory’s \"Just Keep Swimming\" from Finding Nemo—a move common among Para swimmers to clock their time. This and similar content have left viewers both amused and uncertain about whether it\'s appropriate to laugh. The account\'s success is largely due to its willingness to showcase the unfiltered experiences of Paralympic athletes as they get ready for both the Paralympics 2024 and the Paris Olympics 2024. From a one-legged athlete competing in a long jump event to a triathlete searching for his bike while blind, the videos highlight the athletes\' skills while also embracing the challenges and mishaps they face. Craig Spence, the chief brand and communications officer of the International Paralympic Committee, emphasizes that the content strikes a delicate balance between being edgy and respectful. He notes that their goal is to laugh with the athletes, not at them, thereby normalizing the idea that disabled athletes can have a sense of humor about their situations. The TikTok account is managed by a team of four individuals, three of whom have disabilities, including two former Paralympians. Their mission is to provide the exposure to Parasport that they lacked growing up. Spence explains that the team tests content internally before posting to ensure it resonates with the community. The videos serve as both entertainment and education, offering viewers insight into the challenges that Paralympic athletes face not just in sports, but in everyday life. Since its launch in 2020, the account has seen rapid growth, with 250,000 new followers in just the last two weeks. This social media strategy has proven highly effective despite some confusion among newcomers unfamiliar with its dark humor. As the Paralympics 2024 and Paris Olympics 2024 approach, the Paralympics\' TikTok account continues to expand its audience, proving that authentic, humorous content can play a powerful role in raising awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of the Paralympic community.
Cristiano Ronaldo YouTube Channel Hits 10M Subscribers In Under 24 Hours
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world\'s most celebrated football players, has added another accolade to his impressive list of achievements—this time in the digital realm. On Wednesday, August 21, Ronaldo launched his own YouTube channel, and fans around the globe quickly flocked to subscribe. The response was nothing short of extraordinary, as Ronaldo set a new world record by becoming the fastest person to reach 1 million subscribers on YouTube. Ronaldo announced the launch of his channel with a video on his Instagram, urging his fans to \"SIUUUbsribe and join me on this new journey.\" His massive fan base responded with enthusiasm, and within just a few hours, Ronaldo had already made history. The momentum didn’t stop there; within 24 hours, his subscriber count soared to 10 million, smashing records and further solidifying his status as a global icon. Currently, his channel boasts 17.3 million subscribers and continues to grow, featuring a wide array of Cristiano Ronaldo videos that showcase different aspects of his life. To celebrate this unprecedented achievement, Ronaldo received YouTube\'s Gold Play Button, an award given to creators who surpass 1 million subscribers. He shared a video on Instagram showing himself celebrating the milestone with his children, who were thrilled by their father’s success. In the caption, Ronaldo expressed his gratitude to his followers, writing, \"A present for my family ❤️ Thank you to all the SIUUUbscribers!\" Fans across social media platforms have been quick to congratulate Ronaldo on his latest triumph. One fan humorously remarked, \"YouTube already had it prepared cause they knew he was going to hit it,\" while another simply stated, \"The best in everything.\" Such comments reflect the admiration and respect that Ronaldo commands worldwide, both on and off the football field. Before Ronaldo\'s record-breaking feat, the title for the fastest to reach 10 million subscribers was held by the YouTube channel \"Hamster Kombat.\" However, Ronaldo’s rapid rise to this milestone has set a new benchmark in the world of digital content creation. His Cristiano Ronaldo YouTube channel offers a mix of content that gives fans a glimpse into his life beyond football. Ronaldo’s first video features a visit to Madame Tussauds, where he interacts with his wax figure. Another video showcases a fun quiz game with his partner, Georgina Rodriguez, highlighting the lighter, more personal side of the football superstar. These Cristiano Ronaldo videos provide fans with an intimate look at his life, adding another dimension to his already larger-than-life persona. As Ronaldo continues to break records both on the field and online, his new venture into YouTube not only cements his influence in the world of sports but also demonstrates his broad appeal in the digital age. Fans eagerly await more content on his Cristiano Ronaldo YouTube channel as it grows, proving that his reach and impact are truly unparalleled.
Kyle Marisa Roth Cause Of Death Revealed: Antihistamine, Mitragynine Found In Her System
TikTok star Kyle Marisa Roth\'s cause of death has been officially determined, four months after her passing shocked her fans and the online community. According to the Maryland Chief Medical Examiner, Roth died of cardiac arrhythmia due to myocardial fibrosis, a condition in which scarring on the heart muscle causes an irregular heartbeat. This classification confirms that her death was natural. The autopsy report included a thorough toxicology screening, revealing no traces of alcohol in Roth\'s system. However, it did show the presence of Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine commonly marketed as Benadryl, and Mitragynine, an alkaloid often used for pain management. Despite these findings, there is no evidence that these substances were directly linked to her death. Kyle Marisa Roth\'s death has been the subject of considerable speculation, particularly following an incident in April when her parents requested a welfare check. This request was triggered by a concerning post on her TikTok account, which alarmed her loved ones and led to the involvement of Annapolis police. They were dispatched to her apartment and found her deceased. Roth was well-known for her Hollywood blind items and showbiz gossip, amassing a significant following on TikTok. Her engaging content and vibrant personality made her a prominent figure in the social media landscape. The precise details of the TikTok post that led to the welfare check have not been publicly disclosed, adding to the mystery surrounding her untimely death. In the wake of her passing, Kyle Marisa Roth\'s family took to social media to confirm the news, with her sister Lindsay expressing their grief and reflecting on Kyle\'s impact. Lindsay highlighted how Kyle had touched many lives with her humor, intelligence, and activism, leaving behind a lasting legacy. Kyle Marisa Roth was 36 years old. Her death marks a profound loss to her fans and the broader community she engaged with so passionately.
Was Drea Nicole Lyft Kidnapping A Hoax? Some Social Media Users Think So
TikTok star Drea Nicole is at the center of a growing controversy after her viral video claiming she was nearly kidnapped by a Lyft driver. The video, which has garnered millions of views, quickly gained attention, with many expressing concern for her safety and donating nearly $2,400 to a GoFundMe campaign she launched following the incident. However, as more people scrutinize her story, accusations have emerged that Drea Nicole may have fabricated the entire ordeal. Drea Nicole’s TikTok video details her alleged experience, describing how she feared for her life during the ride. She claimed that the Lyft driver took her on a terrifying detour, leading her to believe she was being kidnapped. The emotional video struck a chord with many viewers, leading to an outpouring of support and donations. However, discrepancies in her account have raised suspicions among some online users, who are now questioning the authenticity of her claims. Critics have pointed out inconsistencies in Drea Nicole’s story, with some alleging that she faked her injuries to gain sympathy and financial support. These doubts have sparked heated debates on social media, where users are divided between those who believe Drea Nicole\'s account and those who suspect she is using the situation to scam people. The controversy has cast a shadow over the viral video, with many calling for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth. In response to the growing skepticism, Drea Nicole has maintained her innocence, stating that she has no reason to lie about such a serious matter. She has also expressed frustration with those who doubt her story, insisting that the events she described were real and traumatic. Despite her assertions, the doubts surrounding her story have only intensified, prompting further investigation. Lyft has launched an internal investigation into the incident to determine the veracity of Drea Nicole\'s claims. The company has stated that they take all allegations of misconduct seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of their riders. As the investigation continues, many are waiting to see if Drea Nicole\'s story will hold up under scrutiny or if the doubts surrounding her account will be validated. The controversy has also drawn attention to the broader issue of online scams and the potential for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to be exploited for personal gain. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Drea Nicole\'s story is a genuine cry for help or an elaborate deception aimed at profiting from the generosity of strangers.
Claudia Oshry Addresses Miscolored Cleavage Due To Tanning Fail: \’My God-given Skin Tone\’
Claudia Oshry, the 30-year-old influencer and comedian known for her popular Instagram handle @girlwithnojob, recently found herself at the center of a tanning mishap that had her followers buzzing. During a live show for her podcast The Toast in New Jersey on August 17, Oshry wore a teal mini dress by Jonathan Simkhai, featuring a cutout detail at the bust. Fans quickly noticed a stark contrast between the color of her cleavage and the rest of her tanned body, leading to a flood of comments questioning her tan lines. One TikTok user commented, \"I need you to speak on the spray tan/boob color I’m so confused,\" prompting Oshry to respond publicly on TikTok on August 20. In her video, she humorously addressed the situation, clarifying that her cleavage was not spray-tanned like the rest of her body. \"Comments quickly were fired up about my cleavage. People were like, \'Who does her spray tans?\' \'Whoever did her spray tan should be fired,\'\" Oshry said. She explained, \"You guys. It\'s natural. It\'s natural and yeah, I don\'t lay in the sun with my titties out. So yes, the color of my cleavage is my God-given skin tone. The rest of me is completely suntanned.\" Oshry, who frequently shares her thoughts on Instagram, also took the opportunity to dispel any confusion about her dress, assuring viewers that it did not have a sheer overlay. \"Zoomed in for you here so you can see it\'s not a sheer overlay,\" she said, adding, \"And I refuse to be embarrassed.\" She defended her summer tanning habits, saying, \"I\'m living my best life for the summer getting tan with my titties tucked into my bathing suit, and that\'s how we got here, okay? Don\'t be jealous because I\'m tan, really tan, and you\'re not.\" In the comments section of her response video on Instagram, some users suggested that Oshry could have applied bronzer to even out her skin tone. One person wrote, \"But like my thing is why didn’t we just add some bronzer? Just for funsies!\" Another echoed this sentiment, saying, \"No I’m sorry just use some bronzer at least.\" Despite the criticism, Oshry received plenty of supportive comments as well. Fans praised her look, with one user commenting, \"That’s a great color on you! It works for both of your natural skin tones.\" Another added, \"You crack me up!!!! 😂 rep those white tatas girl, you look incredible!!🔥\" Claudia Oshry’s light-hearted response to the situation reflects her confidence and humor, qualities that shine through both on her Instagram and her podcast. Whether she\'s tackling a tanning mishap or discussing the latest trends, Oshry continues to engage her audience with her unfiltered personality.
Travis Kelce\’s Mom Donna Settles Questions About Taylor Swift\’s Boyfriend\’s Eye Color
Donna Kelce, the mother of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, recently broke her social media hiatus to clear up a lighthearted debate about her son’s eye color. At 71 years old, Donna Kelce, often referred to as “Mama Kelce,” has maintained a relatively low profile on social media. Her last activity on X (formerly known as Twitter) was in June, and her last Instagram post was earlier this month. However, a fan’s question about Travis Kelce\'s eye color prompted her to return to the platform. The discussion began when an X user, @analiaogs, shared a photo of Travis Kelce, 34, along with a caption speculating about his eye color. “Guys … I think it’s green, right? End of discussion,” they wrote. The post gained traction, and someone in the replies tagged Donna Kelce, bringing the debate to her attention. In response, Donna Kelce posted on Monday, providing the definitive answer: “Light blue almost grey... lol.” Her comment quickly went viral, garnering more than 390,000 views at the time of publication. Fans and followers were quick to praise Donna Kelce for settling the debate, expressing their admiration for her in the comments. The original poster, @analiaogs, responded with excitement, saying, “Mama Kelce omg I was asleep 😭 thank you for your service queen!” Others echoed this sentiment, appreciating Donna Kelce for her involvement. One user, @GenXCarlyT, declared, “Mama Kelce has spoken. Thanks for clearing that up,” while @KelleeMood added, “Aww, what a good Mom to help settle this debate on social media 😊 Thanks, Donna!” Donna Kelce has become something of a beloved figure among NFL fans, not just for being the mother of two successful football players—Travis Kelce of the Chiefs and Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles—but also for her warm and engaging presence both online and offline. She famously attended both of her sons\' playoff games on the same day during the 2022 NFL season, capturing the hearts of football fans everywhere. Her latest interaction on social media only further cements her status as a fan favorite. Donna Kelce’s quick response and willingness to engage with fans show that she remains connected to the community, even if she doesn’t post frequently. For many, her clarification was a reminder of her approachable nature and the bond she shares with her sons and their fans. As the NFL season progresses, fans will likely continue to look to Donna Kelce for insights and updates, both on and off the field. Her role as a supportive and involved mother has made her an endearing figure, and her recent social media return has only enhanced that image. Meanwhile, Travis Kelce\'s rumored relationship with Taylor Swift has also kept fans buzzing, adding another layer of public interest in the Kelce family.
Australia Wants To Raise Social Media Age Requirement To 16, Snapchat Pushes Back
Snapchat has pushed back against the Australian government\'s proposal to raise the minimum age for social media access from 13 to 16, arguing that social media age restrictions should be enforced by device manufacturers like Apple or Google rather than individual platforms. This response comes as the federal government evaluates age assurance technologies amidst calls from the opposition to increase the age limit, citing concerns about social media effects on youth. With approximately 8 million users in Australia, Snapchat\'s user base is predominantly aged between 13 and 24. The platform positions itself as one focused on messaging between known contacts rather than one driven by algorithmic content distribution. Jacqueline Beauchere, Snapchat\'s global head of platform safety, emphasized that Snapchat is not designed for meeting new people or engaging with strangers, but rather for connecting with existing friends. She believes that decisions about when teenagers should be allowed on social media should ultimately be made by families, as maturity levels vary among adolescents. Currently in Sydney, Beauchere is meeting with stakeholders, including Australian eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant, to discuss the implications of social media age restrictions. She highlighted the importance of considering a teenager\'s emotional intelligence, sense of agency, and resilience when determining if they are ready for social media. Beauchere acknowledged that imposing a blanket ban could lead to resistance, especially if it means taking away something that teens have been using and benefiting from for years. However, concerns remain about the platform\'s association with issues like cyberbullying and sextortion, highlighting the potential negative social media effects on youth. Emma Mason, the mother of 15-year-old Tilly Rosewarne, who tragically took her own life in 2022 after being bullied on Snapchat, has been a vocal advocate for raising the social media age limit. Mason likened the need for regulation to bans on cigarettes for minors, suggesting that it should be enforced by police and the courts. Security intelligence expert Paul Raffile also noted that nearly all of the 2,000 victims of financial sextortion he had spoken to were contacted via platforms like Snapchat or Instagram, further underscoring the need for stricter social media age restrictions. In response to these concerns, Beauchere asserted that Snapchat is committed to making its platform a safer environment. The company is focused on providing tools for users to block, report, and prevent abuse. Additionally, Snapchat is working on identifying and addressing risky behaviors that could indicate illegal activities, such as sextortion, without compromising user privacy by reading messages. Snapchat has implemented measures to restrict underage users from friending people outside their contact list or a friend of a friend. Should the Australian government proceed with raising the social media age limit to 16 and enforcing it through age verification technology, Snapchat\'s president for the Asia Pacific region, Ajit Mohan, suggested that such measures would be more effective if managed at the device level by operating system owners. He believes that addressing the social media effects on youth and ensuring compliance with age restrictions is an industry-wide issue that requires a collective solution rather than being the sole responsibility of individual platforms.
Oscar De La Hoya Video Dancing In His Thong Removed From Instagram
Oscar De La Hoya, the legendary Hall of Fame boxer, found himself in the spotlight once again, but this time for a different kind of performance. On August 18, 2024, De La Hoya and his girlfriend, Holly Sonders, shared a playful video on Instagram that quickly became the talk of social media. The video featured De La Hoya, 51, dancing in nothing but a thong alongside Sonders, a former Fox Sports broadcaster who was dressed in a pink thong bikini. The couple grooved to the beat of Sak Noel’s hit song “Loca People” while enjoying their time on a balcony. However, the fun was short-lived. The video was swiftly removed from Instagram, much to the dismay of De La Hoya and Sonders. In a candid post on her Instagram Story, Sonders, 37, expressed her frustration, stating, “We both posted a funny video an hour ago, and it got taken down on both our accounts due to lames reporting it.” She further shared that De La Hoya\'s post had garnered an impressive 6,000 comments within 30 minutes before being taken down. Sonders speculated that some people just couldn\'t stand to see them having a good time, but she assured their fans, “The good news… we will be back tomorrow with more.” De La Hoya echoed Sonders\' sentiments in his own Instagram Story, explaining that the video was meant to be lighthearted fun. He lamented that it was removed because of those who seemingly couldn\'t handle his happiness. Despite the setback, the couple seemed undeterred, promising to continue sharing their joy with their followers. This isn\'t the first time De La Hoya and Sonders have shared glimpses of their playful relationship on social media. Just last month, during a vacation in Mexico, Sonders posted a similar video of the couple flexing their arms on the beach. While De La Hoya was more modestly dressed in swim shorts then, the couple\'s carefree attitude was just as evident. De La Hoya and Sonders, who have been together since the summer of 2021, continue to embrace life and each other with a sense of fun and spontaneity. The removed video has only added to their social media saga, leaving fans eagerly awaiting their next post. Keywords: Oscar De La Hoya dancing video, Oscar De La Hoya girlfriend, Oscar De La Hoya Holly Sonders, Oscar De La Hoya Instagram.