Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Influencers Join \’Anti Sunscreen Movement\’, Claims Sun Protector Can Cause Skin Cancer
A concerning trend is gaining momentum on social media: the anti-sunscreen movement. Influencers on platforms like TikTok are advocating against sunscreen use, spreading unfounded claims about its potential risks, including cancer and vitamin D deficiencies. These anti-sunscreen influencers argue that sunscreen causes more harm than good, but their assertions lack scientific backing. Health authorities have intervened to counter this misinformation, emphasizing the critical role of sunscreen in protecting against skin cancer caused by ultraviolet radiation. Dr. Julia Carroll, a board-certified dermatologist, refutes the notion that sunscreen causes cancer, highlighting its effectiveness in preventing skin damage and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated sunscreen\'s effectiveness in reducing the risk of skin cancer and protecting against the sun’s harmful effects on the skin. Dr. Lisa Tabrizi, a naturopathic physician, underscores the importance of safeguarding against the sun\'s harmful effects while acknowledging Canadians\' deep connection to nature and appreciation for sunlight. She offers various sun protection approaches, including sunscreen selection, understanding SPF, timing outdoor activities to avoid peak sun intensity, covering up with hats and sunglasses, seeking shade, and embracing protective clothing. Tabrizi emphasizes the need for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, regardless of whether it\'s physical or chemical. She advises reapplication, especially after swimming or sweating, and recommends using approximately 30ml (1 ounce) to cover the entire body. Contrary to the claims of the anti-sunscreen movement, using the correct amount of sunscreen effectively shields the skin from harmful UV rays, thereby preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. The timing of outdoor activities is crucial, with peak sun intensity occurring between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seeking shade during these hours and wearing protective clothing can minimize UV exposure and reduce the risk of sunburn and skin damage. These strategies complement the use of sunscreen and help ensure comprehensive protection. Accessories like wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses enhance sun protection, while clothing with a UPF rating provides additional coverage. Synthetic and natural fibers, when woven tightly, offer excellent sun protection. This multifaceted approach to sun safety helps counteract the potentially harmful messages spread by anti-sunscreen influencers. Tabrizi encourages Canadians to enjoy the outdoors responsibly by adopting a balanced approach to sun protection. By prioritizing broad-spectrum coverage, complementing it with protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary, individuals can revel in nature\'s beauty while safeguarding their skin and health. In addition to advocating for sun protection, health authorities and experts are working to combat the spread of misinformation about sunscreen on social media platforms. Education campaigns, public service announcements, and collaborations with influencers who promote evidence-based skincare practices are essential in addressing misconceptions and encouraging responsible sun protection behaviors. By empowering individuals with accurate information and practical sun safety tips, efforts can be made to reverse the harmful effects of the anti-sunscreen movement and promote skin health for all. This is not the first time dangerous trends have originated from social media. It can be remembered how some influencers have started advocating the benefits of raw milk - a controversial nutritional stand.
Fiverr AI Influencers Are So In-Demand Searches Are Up 6,300%
Searches for \"AI influencer\" on Fiverr have surged by 6,305% over the past six months, reflecting a growing demand for AI-generated personas in the influencer market. AI influencers like Lil Miquela from the US, Shudu from South Africa, and Lu do Magalu from Brazil have been around for a while, but advancements in AI tools are making the creation of these digital personas faster and more cost-effective. This trend is fostering a new era in Fiverr influencer marketing, where brands can easily connect with AI influencers through the Fiverr platform. This rise in demand is not limited to well-known AI influencers. New niche influencers, such as Spanish gamer/model Aitana and the rebooted 23-year-old character Kant Manu, are joining the AI creator economy. While these AI figures won\'t entirely replace human influencers, they are becoming significant competitors for followers and marketing budgets. Gen Z shows enthusiasm for AI influencers but also expresses concerns that this trend could make it harder for real people to succeed in the influencer space. A key example of embracing the AI influencer trend is Ariel Marie, who has fully consented to AI companies using her persona for generating content. This approach contrasts with controversies involving the unauthorized use of celebrity likenesses, such as the case with Scarlett Johansson. The rapid growth of AI influencers is reshaping the influencer landscape, with platforms like Fiverr playing a crucial role in connecting creators with these new digital tools. The Fiverr influencer program is instrumental in this transformation, providing a marketplace where brands can find and collaborate with AI influencers. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for AI influencers to attract more brands and followers is likely to increase, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an influencer in the digital age. This burgeoning trend also highlights a shift in how brands approach influencer marketing. Companies are increasingly exploring the unique benefits of AI influencers, such as their ability to be available 24/7, maintain a consistent image, and avoid potential scandals associated with human influencers. As AI influencers continue to attract significant attention, they offer brands new opportunities to engage with audiences in innovative and controlled ways, further blurring the lines between reality and digital creation in the marketing world. With the support of platforms like Fiverr, the future of influencer marketing is poised for a digital revolution driven by AI influencers.
Shocking Social Media Effects On Teens: Created \’International Epidemic\’ Of Depression, Suicide
Social media and smartphones have significantly altered childhood, leading to a global surge in depression, anxiety, and suicide among children. This is the alarming conclusion drawn by renowned social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, who shared his findings in his first Australian interview since the release of his research on 60 Minutes. Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation, urges immediate action to mitigate the damage caused by the negative effects of social media on mental health. \"We lost the play-based childhood and we got a phone-based childhood,\" Haidt said. He attributes the sharp decline in teen mental health to the widespread adoption of smartphones equipped with social media, the internet, and front-facing cameras around the early 2010s. This phenomenon has been observed in the United States, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, northern Europe, and Scandinavian countries. The adverse effects of social media on the mental health of teens are particularly evident in the rise of depression and anxiety. Haidt\'s research highlights the impact of social media on young girls, who are particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects. \"Chronic social comparison; all the other girls look better than you, they\'re all using filters or carefully edited photos,\" he explained. This issue is compounded by algorithms that push harmful content, exacerbating mental health issues, contributing to the social media effects on depression and anxiety. 60 Minutes spoke with three families who have experienced tragic losses due to social media. Robb Evans, from Melbourne, lost his 15-year-old daughter Liv to suicide after she developed anorexia nervosa. Liv turned to social media for advice on extreme dieting, finding harmful content that worsened her condition and provided information on suicide methods. This is a stark example of the detrimental social media effects on mental children. Katya Jaski, a 17-year-old anorexia survivor, shared her story of how social media algorithms bombarded her with dangerous content related to dieting and fitness, worsening her illness. \"Social media is all about using each other as a point of comparison, but for this illness in particular, that point of comparison can be deadly,\" Katya said. This highlights the severe social media effects on mental teens, particularly those already struggling with mental health issues. In Florida, Jennifer Mitchell is suing Meta and Snap after her 16-year-old son Ian died while performing a dangerous online challenge. She claims Ian became addicted to high-adrenaline videos, which led to his tragic death. This case underscores the hazardous social media effects on mental health, especially among impressionable children and teens. In response to these issues, Florida has introduced new laws to ban social media for children 14 and under, and require parental permission for 15- and 16-year-olds. Companies that fail to verify ages could face fines of up to $75,000 per violation. The law targets platforms using addictive features like algorithms, notifications, and infinite scrolling. Social media companies, including Meta, Snap, and TikTok, claim they are working to remove harmful content and improve safety measures. However, the effectiveness of these efforts remains under scrutiny. Haidt and affected families are calling for stronger regulations to protect children from the dangers of social media, given the significant social media effects on depression and anxiety, and the broader mental health impacts on both children and teens.
62% Of TikTokers Don\’t Believe US TikTok Ban Will Push Through: Poll
A majority of US TikTok creators don\'t believe the platform will be banned within a year, according to a new survey shared exclusively with WIRED. Despite recent legislation threatening the app’s future in the US, most creators have not seen brands shift their marketing budgets away from TikTok. This sentiment reflects the ongoing debate surrounding the potential TikTok US ban. Fohr, an influencer marketing platform, surveyed US-based TikTok creators with at least 10,000 followers to provide a TikTok ban update. Among the 200 respondents, 62 percent didn\'t think TikTok would be banned by 2025, while 38 percent believed it would be. Half of the respondents rely on influencing as their sole income source. Creators’ skepticism about a potential TikTok ban in the US may stem from previous unsuccessful attempts by the Trump administration and Congress to regulate the app. TikTok\'s popularity in the US has only grown, causing concern in Silicon Valley. Some creators think a ban is unlikely due to the complexity of selling TikTok to American investors, a solution TikTok deems nearly impossible. An anonymous creator expressed disbelief at the situation, calling the potential ban \"ridiculous\" and suggesting the government has more pressing issues. Most creators, 83 percent, reported their sponsorships to remain unaffected, though 7 percent experienced paused or canceled campaigns, and 8 percent saw brands shift or consider shifting deliverables to other platforms. This indicates that US TikTok influencers continue to thrive and secure brand deals even with the looming threat of a TikTok ban. Brands may hesitate to leave TikTok because it’s a significant avenue for product discovery, especially for small businesses. TikTok\'s e-commerce feature, TikTok Shop, has gained traction, with over 11 percent of US households making purchases through it since September 2023, according to Earnest Analytics. User engagement on TikTok has remained stable despite the new law. Sensor Tower data shows consistent app store popularity and Fohr\'s survey found 60 percent of creators saw no change in video views, 28 percent saw a decline, and 10 percent reported increased engagement. These variations might result from algorithm changes, content variability, or user behavior. US tech giants have responded to TikTok’s rise by launching similar features, like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels. If TikTok creators leave due to uncertainty or a ban, Instagram is likely to benefit most, with 67 percent of creators seeing it as the best alternative, while 22 percent favored YouTube. However, gaining traction on Instagram is reportedly more challenging, and the platform lacks TikTok’s Creativity Program, which pays users based on engagement metrics. Fohr\'s survey highlighted a growing revenue stream through the TikTok Creative Challenge, where companies request marketing videos from creators. This type of user-generated content is a significant income source for 18 percent of creators. If TikTok is banned, American competitors may soon adopt similar initiatives.
Travel Influencer Leonel Esteban Borroni Dead Hours After Child Porn Allegations
Leonel Esteban Borroni, a prominent travel influencer from Argentina, was found dead just hours after being accused of possessing child pornography with intent to distribute. The 40-year-old\'s body was discovered by his brother-in-law at his home on the outskirts of Buenos Aires on May 17, local media reported. According to police reports, Borroni was found hanging from a skylight with his hands and legs bound with plastic ties, leading authorities to suspect that he may have restrained himself. While police suspect suicide, they are awaiting autopsy results for confirmation. Authorities had raided his house, uncovering electronic devices containing explicit content featuring minors. Although Borroni was not arrested at the time, six other adults, including a physical education teacher, were detained as part of an ongoing human trafficking and sexual abuse investigation. Per the report, the Youtuber had allegedly left farewell messages on his phone, claiming he is suffering from depression about the accusations thrown at him. The influencer had to attend a preliminary hearing in front of a judge and he reportedly refused to answer the allegations against him. His mother was the one who reported him to the authorities as he was no longer answering her calls. Borroni, also known as the \"Traveling Lion,\" gained popularity on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for his unique travelogues, which documented his adventures around the world on a motorcycle. Before his death, he had amassed over 300,000 followers across his social media channels. His final post on TikTok, uploaded a week prior to his death, depicted him traveling through Suriname on his motorcycle. The tragic circumstances surrounding Borroni\'s death have shocked his followers and the online community, prompting discussions about mental health and the consequences of criminal allegations in the influencer sphere.
Havas Red Philippines Launches Influencer Marketing Agency, SWAY
Havas Red Philippines has taken a significant step forward in influencer marketing by launching its latest venture, SWAY. This new arm is dedicated to diving deep into the intricate world of influencers and their subcultures, marking a transformative approach to modern marketing strategies. SWAY by Havas Red is set to revolutionize the influencer marketing landscape by moving away from traditional metrics-focused methods. Rather than solely emphasizing follower count, reach, impressions, likes, and engagements, SWAY prioritizes genuine connections within smaller, well-defined niche communities. These communities, representing various subcultures, are integral to contemporary marketing, fostering authentic engagement and brand loyalty. According to Havas Red Philippines, the essence of SWAY lies in its commitment to targeted, relevant communication that resonates deeply within specific communities. This strategy is a marked departure from conventional methods that relied heavily on broad-based celebrity endorsements. Instead, SWAY leverages the influence of focused collectives to create meaningful and impactful marketing campaigns. Jos Ortega, CEO of Havas Ortega and General Manager of Havas Red Philippines, emphasized the transformative nature of this approach. \"Subculture-focused influencer marketing represents a significant shift in marketing. Previously reliant on traditional paid celebrity endorsements, we now harness the power of focused collectives,” said Ortega. “Influencers have become trusted leaders and catalysts for change. By curating collaborative campaigns that align with their core values and those of the subcultures they influence, we foster deeper engagement and brand loyalty, all while respecting the unique interests of these passionate communities.” This innovative strategy is further highlighted by Dayniel Garcia, Head of SWAY by Havas Red Philippines. Garcia pointed out the critical role of understanding the cultural context in influencer marketing. “We are redefining influencer marketing in the Philippines,” Garcia noted. “The emergence of subcultures signaled the need to analyze and further explore the cultural context. Fortunately, we have proprietary strategic and measurement tools that inspire fresh approaches that deliver results.” As an influencer marketing agency, SWAY aims to set new benchmarks in the industry. By focusing on the unique characteristics and interests of subcultures, the agency seeks to create campaigns that not only engage but also build lasting relationships between brands and their target audiences. In summary, the launch of SWAY by Havas Red Philippines signals a significant evolution in the field of influencer marketing. By embracing subcultures and prioritizing authentic connections, this new influencer marketing company is poised to deliver innovative and effective marketing solutions that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Dogecoin Dog Kabosu Dead After Battle With Cancer
In Dogecoin news, a somber note has struck the hearts of many: Kabosu, the beloved Shiba Inu who inspired the iconic Doge meme, has passed away. The Japanese Shiba Inu, who had captured the affection of millions globally, had been suffering from leukemia and liver disease. Her owner, Atsuko Sato, shared the heartbreaking news with Kabosu’s 525,000 Instagram followers on Friday, May 24. \"To all of you who loved Kabosu, on the morning of the 24 May, Kabosu crossed the rainbow bridge. Thank you all so much for your support over the years,\" Sato wrote on Instagram. \"She went very peacefully without suffering as if falling asleep while feeling the warmth of my hands petting her. Thank you all so much for loving Kabosu all these years.\" Kabosu\'s journey to internet stardom began in 2008 when she was adopted by Sato, a teacher from Japan, after being rescued from an animal shelter. Her endearing personality and distinctive look quickly made her a favorite subject for photos. However, it was a particular snapshot taken in 2010 that catapulted her to fame. The photo, featuring Kabosu with her paws crossed and a slight, knowing smirk, was shared on Reddit and Tumblr, where it went viral. A Reddit user dubbed the image \"Doge,\" a playful misspelling of \"dog,\" inspired by a 2005 episode of the web series Homestar Runner. This simple photo of Kabosu with her curious expression became a cultural phenomenon. It was the foundation of the Doge meme, characterized by its use of colorful Comic Sans text in broken English, capturing the dog’s seemingly contemplative thoughts. The meme\'s charm and humor resonated with people worldwide, transforming Kabosu into a symbol of internet culture. In addition to becoming a meme sensation, Kabosu\'s image also played a pivotal role in the creation of Dogecoin. The cryptocurrency, initially started as a joke, leveraged the Doge meme\'s widespread recognition to build a robust and passionate community. Dogecoin has since evolved beyond its humorous beginnings, becoming a significant player in the cryptocurrency market and contributing to various charitable causes. Kabosu\'s legacy is thus intertwined with the world of digital currency, and her influence has left an indelible mark. Atsuko Sato expressed her profound gratitude to all those who cherished Kabosu. \"I am certain Kabosu was the happiest dog in the world. That makes me the happiest owner in the world. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has sent us much love to us,\" she wrote. Sato’s heartfelt words reflect the deep bond she shared with Kabosu and the overwhelming support from fans across the globe. Kabosu’s peaceful passing, surrounded by the warmth and love of her owner, brings a poignant close to a remarkable life. Her legacy lives on in the countless memes that continue to bring joy and laughter, and in the Dogecoin community that continues to thrive. Kabosu, the Dogecoin dog, may have crossed the rainbow bridge, but her spirit and influence will forever remain a cherished part of internet lore.
Influencer Dies After Falling Off 19th Floor
In a tragic incident on Saturday morning, an Indian expatriate in her late 30s, Shanifa Babu, fell to her death from the balcony of her 19th-floor apartment in Fujairah. The heartbreaking event left her family, friends, and thousands of followers in shock. Shanifa was a popular figure on social media, boasting a combined following of over 90,000 on Instagram and TikTok. She was known for her humorous reels and engaging posts about her family life. Married with two daughters, Shanifa often shared glimpses of her everyday moments, endearing herself to a wide audience. Her mother was visiting her from Dubai at the time of her untimely death. The community of Fujairah and her extensive online network were devastated by the news. Shanifa’s final social media post, a TikTok reel posted on Thursday, hauntingly read: “Don’t fall in love with me, I will break your heart.” This post has now taken on a poignant significance in light of her sudden demise. Condolences have flooded social media, with many users expressing their disbelief and sorrow. “I cannot believe you are no longer on this earth Shanu,” wrote one user. Another expressed: “You were someone I became friends with on social media without ever meeting in real life, rest in peace.” The outpouring of grief highlights the deep impact Shanifa had on those who followed her journey. Shanifa\'s husband, Sanuj Babu, also shared the heartbreaking news on his social media. In a poignant Instagram post, he wrote, “Please pray for her.” Shanifa’s death has not only shocked her followers but has also raised questions about the pressures faced by social media influencers. Her active presence on Instagram and TikTok, where she regularly posted content to entertain and connect with her audience, was a significant part of her life. The authorities in Fujairah are conducting an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding Shanifa\'s fall. While the details are still emerging, the community remains united in grief, mourning the loss of a vibrant personality who brought joy and laughter to many. The tragic death of Shanifa Babu serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life and the profound impact of social media personalities on their followers. As her family navigates this difficult time, they are met with a wave of support from both local and international communities. The collective mourning reflects the strong bonds formed in the digital age, where influencers like Shanifa become an integral part of many lives. In memory of Shanifa, her followers continue to share her posts, keeping her spirit alive in the virtual world she once brightened. As they grapple with the loss, they celebrate the joy and laughter she brought into their lives, ensuring that her legacy endures.
Kai Cenat Now Has Most Twitch Subs After Kevin Hart Guest Stream
On May 23, 2024, Twitch streamer Kai Cenat invited a special guest to his channel: Renowned comedian and actor, Kevin Hart. Hart is known for his standup comedy and comedic movie roles. This collaboration proved to be a game-changer for Cenat, propelling him to the top of Twitch\'s subscriber rankings and earning him the title of the most-subscribed streamer on the platform. The \"Kai Cenat Kevin Hart full stream\" was an instant hit, with viewers immediately captivated by the dynamic between Cenat and Hart. The two hit it off almost immediately, their chemistry evident in every interaction. Fans were quick to note how Hart was a natural fit for Kai’s stream, effortlessly blending into the online entertainment space. The stream was filled with humorous moments, insightful conversations, and candid exchanges that resonated deeply with the audience. A slew of these humorous moments quickly went viral online, amplifying the stream\'s reach beyond its live viewers. Clips of Hart’s spontaneous jokes and the duo’s banter circulated on social media, drawing in even more viewers to Cenat\'s channel. This surge in visibility and engagement paid off in a massive way for Kai, leading to a significant increase in his subscriber count. According to TwitchTracker, Kai Cenat has become the most-subscribed streamer on Twitch, overtaking his long-time rival Jynxzi. Currently, Cenat has approximately 126,827 subscribers, while Jynxzi has 119,899. This accomplishment is especially notable given the intense competition on the platform. Rising streamer Caseoh ranks third with 62,930 subscribers, followed by political commentator Hasan with 51,234, and Spanish streamer Gaules with 38,183. Cenat\'s rise to the top is a testament to his ability to create engaging and diverse content that appeals to a wide audience. His collaboration with Kevin Hart exemplifies this, showcasing his knack for leveraging celebrity partnerships to boost his profile and reach. While the gap between Cenat and Jynxzi isn’t very big, Cenat\'s current momentum and innovative content strategies could help him maintain his lead. It\'s worth noting that Cenat also holds the record for the most all-time subscribers on Twitch, a milestone he achieved back in 2022 with an impressive 300,000 subs. This historical context highlights his consistent ability to attract and retain subscribers, a crucial factor in the competitive streaming landscape. The success of the \"Kai Cenat Kevin Hart full stream\" underscores the power of strategic collaborations in the digital age. By inviting a high-profile guest like Kevin Hart, Cenat was able to reach new audiences and provide unique, engaging content that stood out in the crowded Twitch environment. This strategy not only boosted his subscriber count but also reinforced his position as a leading content creator on the platform. In conclusion, Kai Cenat\'s achievement of becoming the most-subscribed streamer on Twitch following his collaboration with Kevin Hart is a landmark moment in his career. It highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and audience engagement in the world of streaming. As Cenat continues to push the boundaries of live entertainment, his influence on Twitch and the broader digital content landscape is set to grow even further. With his dynamic presence and ever-expanding audience, the future looks incredibly bright for Kai Cenat on Twitch.
TikToker Accused Of Murdering Wife Admits To Violent Relationship
TikTok star Ali Abulaban, known as JinnKid, confessed in court about his violent relationship with his late wife, Ana Abulaban, but avoided discussing the moment of the fatal shooting that claimed her and her friend\'s lives. Abulaban acknowledged punching Ana three times in the face in the past, despite initially denying ever resorting to violence. He recounted an incident where Ana allegedly initiated physical aggression towards him by punching him while he was still waking up. During the trial, Abulaban delved into the strained dynamics of his marriage, revealing an unsettling discovery of intimate messages between Ana and an unidentified Netflix actor. He recounted stumbling upon these messages on Ana\'s phone and expressed his dismay at her exchanging photos with the actor, although he couldn\'t view them. Abulaban reluctantly disclosed having received explicit images from other women, which he stored discreetly on his phone in an app disguised as a calculator. Moreover, he admitted to consuming cocaine and attempting sexual activities with a neighbor while under its influence but halted due to feeling excessively altered. This admission highlighted his struggles with substance abuse and potentially untreated bipolar disorder, which his defense team attributes to influencing the tragic events leading to the murders of Ana and Rayburn Cardenas Barron at an apartment in East Village in 2021. In contrast, the prosecution maintains that the killings were premeditated, setting the stage for a legal battle centering around Abulaban\'s mental health and drug dependency as mitigating factors in the case. The investigation into the TikTok murders has drawn significant attention, with fans and followers of JinnKid, who had amassed a large online following, trying to reconcile the persona they admired with the accused individual in the courtroom. The defense\'s argument points to Abulaban\'s substance abuse and potential mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, as critical factors leading up to the tragic incident. As the trial unfolds, the courtroom witnesses emotional testimonies from friends and family of the victims, painting a poignant picture of lives lost too soon. Ana and Rayburn are remembered as individuals full of promise, cut down by a senseless act of violence. The community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, seeking closure and justice for the deceased. Amidst the legal proceedings, the haunting question of what led a once-beloved TikTok personality to such a dark and irreversible path looms large, leaving a somber reminder of the complexities that lie beneath the surface of seemingly glamorous online personas. JinnKid\'s wife, Ana, had a presence on Instagram, where she shared glimpses of her life before it was tragically cut short. Her social media accounts have since become a place of mourning and remembrance for those who knew her. As Abulaban faces the consequences of his actions, the case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the hidden struggles that can lie behind social media fame.