Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Here\’s How Much Top Twitch Streamers Earn Yearly: The Figures Will Shock You
Popular Twitch streamer xQc has revealed the staggering amount of money he earns annually just from running ads on his streams, highlighting the critical role ad revenue plays in his income. Known for his large fanbase and engaging content, xQc disclosed that quitting ads would mean losing millions. He shared during a recent stream that he makes approximately £4,750 daily from ads alone, totaling around £1.7 million annually. This revelation came after a fan suggested disabling ads, to which xQc responded that doing so would cost him approximately $6,000 (£4,750) per day, equating to £1.73 million per year. Despite the lucrative non-exclusivity deal he secured with streaming platform Kick for £55 million, ads remain a significant income stream. xQc emphasized that ads are crucial for sustaining his career as a full-time streamer, leveraging his immense popularity to attract sponsors and brands. xQc, one of Twitch\'s top Twitch streamers right now, has built his streaming career on a foundation supported heavily by ad revenue. His candid admission about the financial impact of ads underscores their integral role in the economics of content creation on platforms like Twitch. With a daily viewership ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 per stream, xQc\'s channel attracts a substantial audience, making it highly attractive to advertisers seeking to reach engaged viewers. During his streams, xQc has not shied away from demonstrating the financial benefits of his success. Last year, he showcased a £280,000 Lamborghini and spent £20,000 on Christmas gifts for his viewers, illustrating how ad revenue and sponsorships have translated into tangible rewards. These displays not only reflect his financial success but also reinforce his connection with his fanbase, who appreciate his transparency and generosity. The debate over ad monetization on Twitch is not new, with many top Twitch streamers 2024 navigating the balance between maximizing revenue and maintaining viewer satisfaction. For xQc, the decision to continue running ads is rooted in their substantial financial contribution to his income stream. Disabling ads, he argues, would not only result in a significant financial loss but could also impact the overall viewer experience by altering the dynamics of his channel, including the accessibility of certain features like subscriber benefits. In the world of streaming, where income sources can be unpredictable, ad revenue provides a stable foundation that allows creators like xQc to focus on delivering content without financial concerns. His ability to leverage his popularity into substantial earnings underscores the evolving landscape of digital entertainment, where platforms and creators alike rely on innovative monetization strategies to sustain growth and engagement. As xQc continues to navigate his streaming career, ad revenue remains a cornerstone, enabling him to not only entertain but also thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.
RockyNoHands \’Elden Ring\’ DLC Stream Better Than Kai Cenat? Fans Weigh In
Like every other FromSoft title, Elden Ring has spawned numerous challenge runs that have captivated content creators and their audiences. With the release of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, fans can now witness even more impressive feats of skill and determination. However, not all challenge runs are created equal. Common challenges include playing without armor, magic, or summons. But taking on the game without using one\'s hands? That’s the epitome of “git gud.” RockyNoHands is an American video game streamer who is paralyzed from the neck down due to a spinal cord injury. He plays his games using a QuadStick, a mouth-operated device that allows him to control on-screen actions by breathing into or inhaling from tubes. RockyNoHands has previously broken two Guinness World Records in Fortnite for most wins and kills using only his mouth. He has also taken on other FromSoft titles like Sekiro, Dark Souls 3, and the base game of Elden Ring. Now, RockyNoHands is tackling the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in Elden Ring, and it’s a sight to behold. The DLC is known for being more challenging than the original game, but Rocky is undeterred. He’s taking on the expansion without using any summons, magic, or armor, all while controlling his character with his mouth. He has vowed to defeat the final boss of the DLC in the same manner. The difficulty spike in Shadow of the Erdtree is significant, and the tough nature of the DLC has even led to mixed reviews on Steam. The studio recently released a patch to adjust the scaling of certain blessings, making it easier for players to buff their characters. Despite these changes, Rocky enjoys the challenge and is determined to overcome the game’s toughest obstacles. Rocky’s determination and skill have earned him a dedicated following. Many fans believe his approach to the game makes him the superior streamer compared to others who have attempted similar feats. For example, popular streamer Kai Cenat made headlines when he vowed to beat the Elden Ring DLC after a grueling run, which included numerous deaths and even a mid-game therapy session. With over ten new bosses, a massive map, and a slew of new weapons and spells, Shadow of the Erdtree is an expansive addition to Elden Ring. RockyNoHands\' journey through the DLC, using only his mouth to control the game, is an inspiring testament to his resilience and skill. His ongoing efforts in the gaming world continue to break barriers and set new standards for accessibility in video games.
Influencer Arun Kathare Arrested For Content With Assault Rifles; Police Tweets \’Likes To Cuffs\’
An Instagram influencer, Arun Kathare, residing in JP Nagar, Bengaluru, recently found himself in legal trouble after posting a controversial reel featuring assault rifles on his social media account. The video, which went viral, depicted Kathare and several others dressed as bodyguards holding AK-47-like weapons outside a hotel in Chokkanahalli, seemingly aiming to garner likes and shares on Instagram. Following the video\'s circulation, Bengaluru police took immediate action, initiating a suo moto case against Kathare. Their response was swift and decisive, underscored by a social media post that read, \"That moment when \'likes\' turn into \'cuffs\'. Bengaluru City Police doesn\'t just watch; we act.\" This proactive approach by law enforcement garnered positive feedback online, with users commending the police for promptly addressing such incidents. One commentator emphasized the regulatory framework surrounding firearms, stating, \"You cannot go around trotting guns (fake or not). There are strict guidelines around it.\" The incident also drew attention to potential risks of impersonation and fraud associated with such actions. This incident underscores the gravity with which authorities handle the misuse of social media platforms, particularly when content involves potentially dangerous or illegal activities. The swift intervention by Bengaluru police serves as a deterrent, signaling the consequences for individuals seeking attention through reckless behavior on social media.
X Looking To Add Downvote Button To Posts Like Reddit
X, formerly Twitter, is considering reintroducing a downvote feature for posts, according to recent findings in its iOS app code. This feature, reminiscent of Reddit’s voting system, was previously tested in 2021 before Elon Musk acquired the social network. Initially, Twitter experimented with both upvoting and downvoting buttons, and now X is revisiting the concept with a focus on downvoting replies to potentially improve their ranking within threads. The discovery of code references suggesting the addition of downvotes was made by reverse engineer Aaron Perris, known as @aaronp613 on X, who frequently identifies new app features before their official launch. Perris revealed that these code references were unearthed in the latest iOS app update. However, finding references to a feature in app code doesn’t confirm its public release. Social media platforms often test features internally before deciding on their implementation. Despite this, senior staff machine learning engineer Jay Baxter from X, who works on Community Notes, hinted at the potential benefits of leveraging negative signals to improve content ranking. Baxter highlighted X’s approach of only downranking posts receiving negative ratings from dissenting users, akin to X’s Community Notes feature, which avoids fostering a \"hivemind\" by using private ratings initially. Elon Musk himself contributed to the discussion with a brief comment, affirming the discussion about implementing downvotes. X’s potential reintroduction of downvotes aims to refine how replies are organized in lengthy discussions, potentially highlighting more insightful responses. This approach aligns with efforts seen in X’s Community Notes feature and could influence similar initiatives across social media platforms, such as YouTube\'s testing of a comparable feature called Notes. In addition to exploring downvotes, X may also overhaul its user interface by defaulting to a gesture-based menu to access engagement buttons like \"Like\" and \"Repost,\" as shown in recent interface prototypes shared by Perris. As X continues to innovate and adapt its features, the reintroduction of downvotes could represent a significant shift in how interactions are moderated and ranked on the platform, potentially enhancing user engagement and content quality assessment.
Twitter Alternative Mastodon Adds Byline To Attract Writers, Journalists
Mastodon, the decentralized alternative to Twitter, is rolling out a new feature aimed at attracting journalists and enhancing user engagement. Starting Tuesday, the platform will introduce clickable author bylines on link posts, providing users direct access to the author\'s account within the fediverse, if active. This feature is designed to boost journalists\' visibility and follower count across the network. The updated bylines will prominently display the news publication’s headline and image, followed by the author\'s profile photo and name. This represents a step beyond conventional @username mentions. Several prominent news outlets such as The Verge, MacStories, and MacRumors have already integrated this feature, with TechCrunch expected to follow suit soon. To utilize these new bylines, users must access Mastodon via the main server at mastodon.social, either through the web interface or the official mobile app. Other Mastodon servers will need to support the latest Mastodon nightly release, and the feature will only function for websites approved by moderators. Mastodon\'s API will also support these bylines, facilitating their adoption by third-party applications. The technical implementation involves a new type of OpenGraph tag that dictates the thumbnail image displayed alongside the post preview when shared across various services like Mastodon, iMessage, and Discord. An example of this tag is: `<meta name=”fediverse:creator” content=”@Gargron@mastodon.social” />`. This tag format supports accounts on different federated platforms beyond Mastodon, such as Flipboard, Threads, WordPress (with ActivityPub plugin), PeerTube, Pixelfed, among others. However, it currently doesn\'t accommodate multiple authors for co-byline scenarios, displaying only the primary author. Mastodon plans to propose a specification draft for other ActivityPub platforms in the near future, potentially broadening the adoption of this feature across the federated social media landscape. This innovation is expected to encourage more journalists to join the fediverse, leveraging its expansive user base of over 10 million across various platforms, including Mastodon\'s own 804,000 monthly active users.
DJ Drama, Druski Comment On Sexyy Red \’Getting Robbed\’ At BET Awards 2024
At the 2024 BET Awards, the upset of Tyla winning over Sexyy Red sparked significant online buzz and discussions among fans. According to Druski and DJ Drama, who spoke to TMZ Hip Hop at LAX the day after the event, the outcome was contentious but ultimately highlighted the diversity and strength of talent in the music industry. Both personalities, who attended the awards, acknowledged the widespread sentiment that Sexyy Red was a strong contender for Best New Artist of the year. Druski and DJ Drama agreed that Sexyy Red\'s \"Rich Baby Daddy\" raps had resonated deeply with BET\'s audience, making her a fan favorite. Despite this, they also recognized Tyla\'s global appeal and the influence of her Afrobeats style, which contributed to her win. Druski commended both artists for their talents and expressed respect for their contributions to music. Beyond the awards, he addressed personal topics such as his recent weight loss, clarifying that it was achieved through natural means despite rumors suggesting otherwise. DJ Drama echoed Druski\'s sentiments, emphasizing that both Sexyy Red and Tyla bring unique strengths to the table, catering to different audiences with their distinct musical styles. He praised Tyla for her international acclaim and highlighted Sexyy Red\'s ability to connect deeply with BET\'s core demographic through her authentic lyrics. The online reaction to Tyla\'s win was mixed, with some fans disappointed by the outcome while others celebrated her achievement. Social media platforms buzzed with debates and discussions, reflecting the passionate fanbases of both artists. Amidst the controversy, Druski also confirmed his recent breakup with Rubi Rose, signaling a new chapter in his personal life and potentially opening doors to new romantic possibilities in the summer ahead. Overall, while opinions varied on the BET Awards results, Druski and DJ Drama emphasized that the real winners of the night were the fans, who enjoyed a showcase of exceptional talent and entertainment.
Keke Jabbar Dead At 42: Marcella Speaks Reveals News On YouTube Live Stream
KeKe Jabbar, renowned for her role on OWN\'s \"Love & Marriage: Huntsville,\" has passed away, as confirmed during a YouTube livestream by blogger Marcella Speaks. The announcement, reportedly from KeKe\'s family, conveyed that she passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. The statement did not disclose the cause of her death. Described by her family as a devoted mother, sister, and cherished friend, KeKe is remembered for her vibrant spirit, warmth, and infectious laughter. Her cousin and reality TV co-star, LaTisha Scott, appealed for privacy and respect during this difficult time for their family, highlighting the profound impact of KeKe\'s loss. Scott expressed deep sorrow over the loss of KeKe, emphasizing the significant role she played not only in their personal lives but also in the broader community. In recent weeks leading up to her passing, KeKe had been notably absent from social media. Her last posts, dating back to late May, celebrated her eldest son\'s high school graduation, a moment of pride for her. This milestone, filled with joy and familial love, is now one of the final public glimpses into KeKe\'s life. KeKe\'s death has deeply affected both the \"Love & Marriage: Huntsville\" community and her fanbase. Known for her candid portrayal of life on reality TV, she endeared herself to viewers with her openness and authenticity. Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues, reflecting on her positive influence and the fond memories shared. Her genuine nature and relatability resonated with many, making her a beloved figure both on and off the screen. Beyond her television career, KeKe was a prolific author, editor, and respected professor, leaving a lasting impact on literature and education. Her multifaceted talents and commitment to her family and community have left a profound legacy. As an educator, she inspired countless students, and her written works have touched many hearts and minds. Her dedication to empowering others and fostering a love for learning stands as a testament to her character. At the age of 42, KeKe Jabbar\'s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of many, marking the end of a life celebrated for its accomplishments and cherished moments shared with loved ones and fans alike. Her memory will live on through her contributions to the arts, her educational influence, and the loving relationships she nurtured throughout her life. The outpouring of grief and remembrance is a testament to the indelible mark she left on everyone she encountered.
TikTok Influencer Keith Lee Didn\’t Appreciate Taraji P. Henson\’s BET Awards Mix-Up: \’No Confusion\’
At the 2024 BET Awards, hosted by Taraji P. Henson for the third consecutive year, a memorable mix-up occurred involving TikTok food influencer Keith Lee and TikToker Jordan Howlett. Keith Lee, accompanied by his wife Ronnie Lee, attended the event in Los Angeles, where Henson\'s \"giving people their flowers\" segment took an unexpected turn. During the segment, Henson initially mispronounced Halle Bailey\'s name, adding a touch of humor when she asked a security guard to present her with a rose. The moment became even more amusing as Henson approached the audience and engaged with Jordan Howlett, known as Jordan Thee Stallion on TikTok. She playfully asked Howlett about his marital status, mistaking him for Keith Lee. Turning to Howlett, Henson joked, \"Mr. Keith Lee, I know what you\'re thinking right now, this is about a 10.9 outta 10?\" The audience erupted in laughter when Howlett pointed out Keith, who was seated next to his wife Ronnie. Realizing her mistake, Henson gracefully apologized to Keith, acknowledging her mix-up with a humorous comment, \"I got caught up in my own inner monologue, I’m so sorry.\" She proceeded to deliver the rose to Keith, continuing the bit and playfully adding, \"You fine, too. So call me. Give him his flower.\" Keith Lee took the incident in stride, later sharing a now-deleted TikTok video where he humorously dropped the rose on the floor, accompanied by a reflective caption about divine timing and recognition. Prior to the awards show, Keith expressed his excitement about attending the event with his wife in an interview with ET, highlighting his gratitude and faith. \"It\'s amazing. I\'m blessed to be here,\" he remarked. \"We look amazing. My wife looks amazing. God is amazing. I\'m just here. I\'m thankful. We\'re everywhere we\'re supposed to be at all times.\" Reflecting on his journey, Keith expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have come his way. \"I always knew that God destined something for me special,\" he shared. \"I just never knew what path it was going to take me, and I\'m here for every path that he puts me on.\" The mix-up at the BET Awards added a lighthearted moment to the evening, showcasing Keith Lee’s good-natured response and Taraji P. Henson’s ability to entertain even amidst minor mishaps.
\’Hawk Tuah\’ Girl Breaks Silence On Viral Moment, Sets Record On Lies About Her
Hailey Welch, famously known as the \"Hawk Tuah\" girl from a viral meme, recently addressed several misconceptions about her life and newfound fame during an appearance on Brianna LaPaglia\'s \'Plan Bri\' podcast. Welch clarified that many stories circulating about her are untrue. Contrary to popular belief, she is not a former school teacher and was not dismissed from a teaching job because of her viral moment. \"I\'m only 21 years old; I haven\'t even reached the age to become a teacher,\" she emphasized. Instead, Welch was employed at a spring factory when she unexpectedly discovered her meme status, having been largely unaware of her online fame due to distancing herself from social media. Addressing another rumor, Welch debunked the claim that her father is a preacher who disapproved of the viral video. She shared that her parents actually find the situation amusing and support her sense of humor. Welch admitted feeling initially shocked by the sudden online attention and the invasive attempts to locate her. She recounted instances where fans created fake social media profiles and used photos from her friends\' accounts, prompting her decision to step forward and clarify matters. \"It\'s unsettling to see your face on a profile that isn\'t yours,\" she commented. During the podcast, Welch disclosed a bizarre incident where she received a $600 offer to spit into a jar. Despite briefly considering it, she ultimately found the proposal \"disgusting\" and declined. Despite the notoriety stemming from the viral moment, Welch expressed a desire not to be solely defined by the \"Hawk Tuah\" meme. Nevertheless, she has taken steps forward by securing management representation and a merchandise deal based on her NSFW catchphrase. Welch also shared her intention to leverage her newfound platform for positive purposes, including raising awareness about mental health issues and supporting local charities. \"Using this attention for something meaningful is important to me,\" Welch stated. \"I want to give back and assist those in need within my community.\" This marks a significant shift as Welch navigates her viral fame with an aim to redefine her public image and make a lasting, positive impact beyond her internet notoriety. Hailey Welch\'s journey underscores the complexities of sudden viral fame, as she manages misconceptions while striving to use her platform responsibly for causes close to her heart. Her story serves as a reminder of the unforeseen challenges and opportunities that come with online recognition in today\'s digital age.
Jojo Siwa Slams Crowd For Booing Her During Performance: \’Respectfully, F*** You!\’
JoJo Siwa made waves at Trixie Mattel\'s Pride Disco event in New York City with a surprising new persona that diverges sharply from her previous image as a bubbly, child-friendly star. The 21-year-old former Dance Moms sensation paused her performance to directly address a fan who booed her, creating a dramatic moment that quickly went viral. In a video captured by a fan, an visibly upset Siwa can be heard demanding to know who booed her, exclaiming, \"Who the living f**k just booed me? Where the f**k did that come from? Which one of you?\" The crowd responded with chants of \"Beat \'em up!\" and \"Fight! Fight! Fight!\" Siwa then grabbed a fan\'s poster, retorted with a blunt \"Respectfully, f**k you!\" and gestured obscenely towards the audience, which her backup dancers echoed. Despite the confrontational incident, Siwa received overwhelming support from many fans at the event. In a touching moment, a fan threw a bouquet of roses onto the stage, which Siwa graciously acknowledged. She even took a rose and playfully tucked it into her glittery attire. Closing the incident with a touch of humor, Siwa exclaimed, \"F**k the booers - somebody just chucked a bra at me!\" This remark further endeared her to the audience, who responded with chants of her name. During her performance, Siwa showcased her new single \"Karma\" and teased an unreleased track titled \"Guilty Pleasure.\" She was accompanied on stage by dancers in teddy bear costumes, a motif that mirrors her latest tattoo, a winged teddy bear inked at the Costello Tattoo Studio in Los Angeles. This tattoo, shared on Instagram, is rumored to be the cover art for her upcoming album. Scheduled for release on July 12, 2024, Siwa\'s debut EP features tracks like \"Guilty Pleasure,\" \"Balance Baby,\" \"Yesterdays Tomorrows Today,\" \"Choose UR Fighter,\" and \"Karma.\" This musical endeavor marks a significant departure from her earlier work, signaling her transition into a more mature phase of her career. In recent interviews, Siwa has emphasized that this evolution represents her authentic self and a desire to appeal to a broader audience beyond her traditional fan base. The reaction to Siwa\'s transformation has been mixed, reflecting the challenges of evolving a public persona. While some fans have embraced her edgier image, others have expressed disappointment, missing the innocence and exuberance that defined her earlier career. Nonetheless, Siwa remains resolute in her artistic direction, expressing confidence in her choices and excitement for the opportunities ahead in her music career. As JoJo Siwa prepares to unveil her new music and image to the world, she continues to captivate attention and spark conversation, solidifying her status not just as a former child star, but as a versatile artist prepared to navigate new artistic frontiers.