Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Kids Brands Target Young Parents With Influencer Marketing
Brands targeting children\'s products are increasingly directing their marketing efforts towards millennial and Gen Z parents, recognizing their substantial purchasing influence. In the U.S., approximately 40% of millennials are parents, totaling over 22 million individuals. Additionally, Gen Z parents, comprising one in 10 parents, are also emerging as a significant consumer group, often utilizing platforms like TikTok to discover new products. However, these digitally-savvy parents are inundated with digital advertisements, necessitating innovative approaches to capture their attention. Companies such as Coterie, PatPat, and Little Spoon are turning to influencer marketing as a strategic tool to engage this audience effectively. They understand that young parents are discerning about online advertising and face intense competition within the baby and kids categories. For instance, Coterie, a startup in the baby care sector, places a strong emphasis on quality and customer empowerment. Jess Jacobs, Coterie\'s chief brand officer, highlights their commitment to supporting parents through informative content on their website, addressing topics ranging from diaper selection to potty training. Since their inception, Coterie has leveraged influencer marketing, collaborating with celebrities like supermodel Karlie Kloss and influencer Ashley Graham, both of whom were already fans of the brand\'s offerings. Similarly, PatPat focuses on partnerships with parent influencers, allowing them to authentically showcase their products to a broader audience. These collaborations build trust and credibility among followers who value recommendations from trusted personalities. Little Spoon, specializing in baby food with an emphasis on clean ingredients, aligns its messaging with values important to millennial and Gen Z parents. They utilize influencer marketing to communicate transparency and product quality, ensuring their message resonates effectively with their target demographic. In the competitive landscape targeting young parents, brands must continue innovating their marketing strategies. Influencer marketing stands out as a potent method for reaching this tech-savvy generation, enabling brands to forge genuine connections and effectively communicate their values. As these efforts evolve, brands like Coterie, PatPat, and Little Spoon demonstrate how influencer partnerships can play a pivotal role in engaging and retaining the loyalty of millennial and Gen Z parents.
Influencer Claims Hulk Hogan Fired Her As Brand Ambassador After One Day For Being Black
Social media influencer Essence Jenai recently made serious allegations against Hulk Hogan’s Real American beer, claiming she was terminated from her role as a brand ambassador on her first day due to her race. Jenai took to TikTok to share her experience, revealing that she was hired and promptly dismissed, with her scheduled events cancelled and replaced by a white woman. Her TikTok videos directly addressed Hulk Hogan, accusing him of racial discrimination in his choice of brand ambassadors, and quickly gained traction with thousands of views and supportive comments. In response to Jenai’s allegations, a spokesman for Real American Beer vehemently denied any racial motivations behind the termination. According to the spokesman, the decision to end the relationship was based solely on terminating their contract with the third-party marketing agency, not on race or any involvement by Hulk Hogan himself. The company expressed concern over the misinformation circulating and stated their intent to clarify the situation with the agency. Nevertheless, Essence Jenai’s claims have ignited a broader conversation about racial equality in brand partnerships and corporate responsibility. The incident has prompted calls from civil rights organizations for a thorough investigation into the matter, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in how brands treat their ambassadors. This controversy underscores the scrutiny faced by public figures and companies in today\'s social media landscape, where allegations can quickly escalate and impact reputations. The backdrop to this incident includes the recent launch of Real American Beer, which has also brought renewed attention to Hulk Hogan’s history of controversies involving racially insensitive remarks. As the company and Hogan work to address the fallout from Jenai\'s allegations, they face the challenge of managing public perception and ensuring that their actions align with expectations of fairness and inclusivity.
Fidias Panayiotou MEP Salary Revealed: YouTuber Gets Plenty Of Perks As A Politician
In June 2024, the controversial prankster and influencer Fidias Panayiotou was elected as an independent member of the European Parliament (MEP). According to the BBC, Panayiotou secured 40% of votes from people aged 18-24 and 28% from those aged 25-34, demonstrating significant support from younger voters. Despite claiming to have never voted and possessing little knowledge of the political system, the 24-year-old influencer is using his platform to take viewers “on a journey of learning.” Through his TikTok account, Fidias Panayiotou has been sharing behind-the-scenes insights into the workings of the European Parliament and has even disclosed his monthly earnings. Fidias Panayiotou revealed that he receives €8,000 a month as a member of the European Parliament, with an additional €350 for each working day he signs in at parliament. He expressed surprise at this remuneration structure, stating, “Which is a bit strange.” Additionally, Panayiotou is allotted €30,000 per month to cover his team’s salaries, €5,000 for maintaining an office in his home country, and €4,000 to promote his work. He also mentioned an allowance of €10,000 a month to bring people to parliament for a few days so they can “meet and understand” the work being done. Among the job\'s perks are being a driver in Brussels and having business class tickets for Fidias Panayiotou to fly home. Panayiotou asked his viewers, “I’m curious to hear if you think we are overpaid or underpaid?” He estimated that all these expenses together amount to approximately €60,000 a month, close to $65,000 USD, or nearly $780,000 USD a year. The transparency displayed by Fidias Panayiotou has garnered a mixed reaction from the public. One of the top comments on his video asked, “How to apply to be a member of the European Parliament?” Others praised him as “the most honest politician” they had “ever seen.” Some viewers appreciated his openness, with one stating, “Say what you will about him being there, I love the transparency this guy brings.” Fidias Panayiotou’s candidness about his earnings and the workings of the European Parliament has sparked a conversation about political salaries and transparency, resonating particularly with younger voters who supported his candidacy.
Jojo Siwa Has An Odd Job Choice If She Wasn\’t A Famous Artist
JoJo Siwa, the popular entertainer known for her vibrant personality and energetic performances, recently sparked a wave of amusement and curiosity when she revealed what her alternate career choices would be if she hadn\'t pursued fame. In a candid moment shared on social media, JoJo disclosed that she would have opted to become a neurosurgeon or an indoor skydiving instructor. The announcement, which came as a surprise to many of her fans, quickly became a trending topic across various platforms. Social media users responded with a mix of humor and genuine interest in JoJo\'s unexpected career aspirations. One person remarked, \"Not even kidding, she was meant to be an indoor skydiving instructor,\" highlighting the playful enthusiasm surrounding her unconventional career choice. Others took a more humorous approach, with one Twitter user jokingly suggesting, \"In another life, JoJo Siwa is doing my lobotomy,\" reflecting on the irony of the upbeat entertainer potentially performing brain surgery. Amidst the playful banter, some fans even suggested alternative career paths for JoJo, such as joining the WWE, underscoring the broad appeal and imagination sparked by her career revelation. JoJo Siwa, known for her distinctive style and positive influence on young audiences, continues to captivate fans with her versatility and unexpected career insights. Her recent revelation about potential alternate careers has only added to her charm and the ongoing fascination with her dynamic persona. JoJo Siwa\'s revelation about her alternate career choices not only sparked humor and curiosity but also highlighted her versatility beyond the entertainment industry. Known for her vibrant presence and positive impact on her audience, JoJo\'s unexpected career aspirations resonated widely, prompting fans to reflect on her potential in various fields. Her ability to blend entertainment with genuine interest in diverse pursuits adds to her appeal, showcasing a personality that continues to captivate and inspire both young admirers and those curious about her journey beyond the spotlight. As JoJo Siwa navigates her career, her openness about alternative paths underscores her multifaceted nature and leaves fans eager to see what she\'ll conquer next. On Instagram, JoJo Siwa often shares glimpses of her life and career, further engaging her audience with her unique charm. Her recent post about her alternate career choices, tagged with \"JoJo Siwa karma,\" quickly gained traction, with fans excitedly discussing the surprising possibilities. As fans and followers engage with JoJo\'s latest revelation, the entertainer remains a prominent figure in pop culture, known not only for her music and performances but also for her ability to surprise and entertain with her unique personality and career aspirations.
Middle School Students Create Fake TikTok Accounts Of Teachers; Post Sexually Explicit, Pedophilic Content
Officials said a group of Pennsylvania middle school students created fake TikTok accounts to impersonate teachers while making inappropriate comments. According to The New York Times, eighth graders in the Great Valley School District (GVSD) in Chester County made around 20 fake TikTok accounts impersonating teachers. These accounts were filled with pedophilic and homophobic remarks, racist memes, and rumors about sexual hookups between staff members. District Superintendent Daniel Goffredo expressed his dismay, stating, \"I reiterate my disappointment and sadness that our students’ behavior has caused such duress for our staff. Seeing GVSD in such a prominent place in the news for behavior like this is also disheartening.\" A Spanish teacher at Great Valley Middle School, Patrice Motz, found a profile with a real photo of her at the beach with her family. A text in Spanish over the photo read, \"Do you like to touch kids?\" with the response, \"Answer: Sí.\" Motz described the experience as \"so deflating,\" adding, \"I can’t believe I still get up and do this every day.\" Goffredo said the district investigated the matter, contacted local police, and tracked down some of the accounts. However, more fake TikTok accounts might still be active, according to Fox Philadelphia. \"Unfortunately, we do know that accounts have been created throughout the summer months. It’s disheartening,\" Goffredo said. The district has taken action against the middle school TikTok attack and some of the implicated students but did not disclose the specifics. Goffredo mentioned that while some behavior warranted discipline, certain actions were protected by the right to free speech and expression. Vikki Salvatico, head of the local teachers union, emphasized the need to educate students on responsible social media use. \"We’re heartbroken because what we do is educate our students. We never want to see anyone make choices that could hurt their reputations,\" she said. The incident has highlighted the challenges schools face in addressing inappropriate behavior online and the importance of teaching students about the responsible use of social media. The Great Valley School District continues to work with authorities to manage the situation and prevent further incidents.
Julia Fox Is Lesbian: Kanye West\’s Ex-GF Comes Out On TikTok
Julia Fox, known for her roles in \"Uncut Gems\" and her high-profile relationships, made headlines again by coming out as lesbian in a playful manner on July 8. The 34-year-old actress and fashion icon shared her revelation on TikTok, responding humorously to comedian Emily Gracin\'s remark about seeing \"a lesbian with their boyfriend.\" Fox quipped back in a TikTok video, confirming she was the subject of the joke and jokingly apologizing to her ex-boyfriends. Before publicly embracing her sexuality, Fox had been in relationships with men, including her marriage to Peter Artemiev, with whom she shares a young son named Valentino. She also gained attention in 2022 for her brief romance with rapper Kanye West, which ended after a whirlwind month. Reflecting on their time together in her 2023 memoir, Fox described their relationship candidly, hinting at its challenges and questioning its authenticity amidst public scrutiny. Julia Fox\'s decision to come out as lesbian adds another layer to her public persona, which has often been characterized by her unfiltered honesty and distinctive fashion sense. Beyond her relationships and celebrity status, Fox has been a vocal advocate for self-expression and authenticity in an industry known for its pressures and expectations. Her openness about her sexuality not only marks a personal milestone but also resonates with many who admire her courage in sharing her truth with the world. In addition to her acting career, Fox has carved out a niche in the fashion world, known for her daring and avant-garde style choices. She has graced the covers of fashion magazines and attended major events, often making headlines for her bold fashion statements. Her journey from a budding actress to a fashion icon and now a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility reflects a woman who continues to redefine herself on her own terms, inspiring others to embrace their true identities. Fox\'s Instagram and TikTok platforms have played significant roles in her public life, providing her with spaces to share her personal milestones and connect with fans. Her openness about her personal life and sexuality has been met with mixed reactions but has sparked conversations about identity and self-expression. Her journey from high-profile relationships, including with Kanye West, to embracing her true self publicly resonates with many, highlighting her evolution both personally and professionally. As she continues to navigate her career and personal life, Julia Fox\'s bold and candid approach remains a subject of fascination and admiration among fans and followers alike.
TikTok Album Cover Trend Tips: How To Make The Perfect Video?
TikTok‘s viral ‘anything can be an album cover’ trend has taken the app by storm, as users are turning mundane moments into iconic album covers. This challenge sees TikTokers selecting random videos or photos and applying a specific filter that transforms them into a stylized album cover. It even adds a ‘Parental Advisory’ sticker, mimicking the look of explicit content warnings often seen on music albums. The effect also makes it appear like you’re listening to the album on a music app, complete with play buttons and progress bars. Most of these videos are set to the track ‘redrum’ by 21 Savage. To participate in this trend, users need to download the free CapCut app onto their device. Once downloaded, they can follow these steps: Open TikTok. Tap the magnifying glass in the top right. Type ‘Album cover trend‘ in the search bar. Find a video that has used the viral filter. Click on the button above the person’s username that reads “CapCut – Try this template.” Press ‘Use template in CapCut.’ Select the photo or video you want to use, then tap ‘Preview.’ View the results, then select ‘Export’ and either ‘Save to your device’ or ‘Save and share to TikTok.’ Over 2.6 million people have used this filter so far, with videos featuring this trend amassing thousands of likes and views. This trend has captivated TikTok users by offering a creative outlet to transform everyday scenes into visually striking album covers. From mundane tasks like cooking or walking down the street to scenic views and funny moments, almost anything can become a potential album cover with the right filter and presentation. The trend not only showcases the creativity and editing skills of TikTokers but also encourages engagement through likes, shares, and comments. It has become a community-driven phenomenon where users interact with each other’s creations, sharing tips on how to enhance their album cover designs and experimenting with different filters and music tracks. For those looking to participate, the trend offers a simple yet engaging way to showcase artistic flair while leveraging TikTok\'s editing tools and the CapCut app’s templates. As the trend continues to gain momentum, it underscores the platform\'s role as a hub for creative expression and viral content that resonates with millions of users worldwide. If users want to explore more of TikTok’s most popular filters, they can check out other guides, including how to get the Bridgerton filter on TikTok and how to get the viral 1930s AI effect on TikTok.
Are People Selling Free Houses They Received From MrBeast?
MrBeast, known for his philanthropic YouTube videos and extravagant giveaways, recently made headlines for constructing 100 houses in countries like Jamaica and El Salvador to assist people in need. However, controversy ensued when rumors surfaced that some recipients were attempting to sell these houses for personal gain. The issue came to light when a viral Facebook post depicted a man allegedly trying to sell one of the houses built by MrBeast in El Salvador. The post included images of the house and its surroundings, enticing potential buyers with details about the property\'s features and an asking price of $45,000. The backlash on social media was swift, with many expressing disappointment and frustration over the perceived exploitation of MrBeast\'s charitable efforts. One post highlighting the listing garnered over 3.6 million views and nearly 50,000 likes, underscoring the widespread attention the issue received. Responding to the controversy, Michelle Sol, the Minister of Housing in El Salvador, denounced the Facebook post as false. She clarified that recipients of MrBeast\'s houses are legally bound not to sell them for 20 years and confirmed that the individual in the advertisement was not among the authorized beneficiaries. In an effort to combat misinformation, subsequent posts on various platforms were tagged with Community Notes redirecting users to Sol\'s official statement. This measure aimed to quell the spread of false information surrounding MrBeast\'s charitable initiative. Despite the scrutiny and challenges faced, MrBeast has not issued further statements regarding the specific houses built in these countries. His actions have sparked debate, with critics questioning the ethics of using charitable acts for content creation, while supporters emphasize the positive impact of his philanthropy. As discussions continue, MrBeast remains committed to his mission of making a difference, addressing criticisms, and standing by his decision to help those in need through his distinctive brand of YouTube content.
YouTube Audio Eraster Tool Update: Remove Copyrighted Music Without Affecting Other Sound
On July 4, YouTube rolled out an enhanced tool aimed at creators, enabling them to effortlessly remove copyrighted music from their videos while preserving other essential audio elements like dialogue or sound effects. YouTube\'s Chief Neal Mohan unveiled the updated Erase Song tool on X, declaring, \"Good news, creators: our updated Erase Song tool helps you easily remove copyright-claimed music from your video (while leaving the rest of your audio intact).\" In a detailed video demonstration, YouTube revealed that this eraser tool underwent extensive testing to refine its functionality. Initially, it struggled with precision in isolating copyrighted songs from video clips. However, the updated version now leverages advanced AI algorithms to precisely detect and eliminate copyrighted music segments without affecting other audio components. Despite its advancements, YouTube cautions creators that the tool may not consistently achieve optimal results, especially with more intricate copyright claims. In such cases, creators can explore alternative editing methods, such as muting all sound within the contested segments or trimming out the disputed sections. Following successful application of the tool, YouTube promptly removes the Content ID claim associated with the copyrighted material, alleviating the burden on creators who frequently contend with copyright challenges. The introduction of this feature has been warmly welcomed within the creator community, which has long grappled with the implications of copyright claims on their content. The capability to selectively remove copyrighted music while preserving audio quality promises to streamline workflows and enhance the overall creative environment on YouTube. This initiative underscores YouTube\'s commitment to supporting creators by offering intuitive tools that facilitate compliance with copyright regulations while maintaining the integrity of their artistic endeavors.
Water Fasting Risks: TikTok Star Mikaela Testa Suffers Appendecitis After Doing Viral Weight Loss Trend
TikTok sensation Mikaela Testa recently faced a serious health scare, landing in the hospital due to a severe case of appendicitis. She shared the ordeal on Instagram, posting candid images from her hospital stay, including one displaying an intravenous drip in her arm. The incident occurred while Mikaela was in the midst of a \"water fast,\" a practice where individuals abstain from consuming any food and only drink water for extended periods. Expressing her discomfort, Mikaela recounted, \"The nurse just told me I can\'t actually eat anything at all, and before I came, I had already fasted for 24 hours.\" She candidly admitted to intense hunger pangs, humorously remarking, \"I\'m starving and all I want is some chicken tendies.\" Throughout her hospitalization, Mikaela shared glimpses of her experience, posting a photo of what she dubbed her \"0 calories dinner\" — a cup with yellow liquid. Another image showed her receiving medical treatment in a hospital room, emphasizing the seriousness of her condition. This health incident follows recent controversies surrounding Mikaela, including allegations of Photoshopping a vacation photo on Instagram. While vacationing in Japan, she faced scrutiny over a photo showcasing her figure, with followers pointing out discrepancies like a bent tree branch next to her. Mikaela responded by addressing the accusation directly, posting the comment and a photo of the tree, clarifying the situation. Despite such controversies, Mikaela\'s fans have rallied around her during her hospitalization, offering support and eagerly awaiting updates on her recovery. As she navigates this health setback, Mikaela continues to engage with her audience, sharing personal insights and updates about her well-being.