Latest Influencer News in 2026
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New Black Twitter Documentary Review: Series Gets High Rotten Tomatoes Score
The legacy of Black Twitter, a vibrant online community that reshaped cultural dialogue, is now immortalized in the three-part documentary series \"Black Twitter: A People\'s History,\" currently available for streaming on Hulu. This documentary delves into the emergence and influence of this digital community, which burgeoned around 2009, highlighting how it has become a cornerstone of modern social media culture. Inspired by WIRED magazine\'s 2021 feature story \"A People\'s History of Black Twitter,\" the documentary explores Black Twitter memes, trends, and the broader cultural impact of this unique digital space. Directed by Prentice Penny and produced by Jason Parham, the series aims to preserve the cultural significance of Black Twitter amid a changing online landscape. Through its episodes, viewers are taken on a journey that showcases the profound ways Black Twitter has influenced public discourse, activism, and popular culture. Jihan Robinson, vice president of documentary films and series at Onyx Collective, emphasized the importance of authentically representing Black Twitter\'s impact and community dynamics. The selection of Penny, a member of Black Twitter and executive producer of \"Insecure,\" was instrumental in ensuring the documentary\'s authenticity. His intimate knowledge of the community allows for a nuanced portrayal that resonates with viewers who have witnessed or participated in Black Twitter\'s evolution. Penny, alongside Parham and Robinson, underscores the documentary\'s role as a time capsule, preserving a pivotal moment in history that might otherwise have been lost with the platform. \"Black Twitter: A People\'s History\" serves as both a celebration of community and a testament to the power of digital spaces in fostering social change. The series meticulously documents various Black Twitter trends that have sparked conversations and driven movements, showcasing the platform\'s role in shaping contemporary social issues. In the Black Twitter documentary review, critics have praised the series for its insightful and comprehensive examination of Black Twitter\'s legacy. The documentary is available for streaming on Hulu, underscoring Disney\'s commitment to diverse storytelling through its subsidiary, Onyx Collective. For more information, viewers can visit Hulu\'s platform to immerse themselves in this significant narrative. \"Black Twitter: A People\'s History\" stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Black Twitter, encapsulating its contributions to cultural and social landscapes through powerful storytelling and dynamic visuals.
Grace Beverley\’s Tala Instagram, TikTok Ads Get Banned For Not Being Labeled
Six advertisements posted by influencer Grace Beverley have been banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) for not being properly disclosed as ads. The banned ads, consisting of two Instagram ads in the form of reels and four TikTok ads, were promoting Tala, the fitness clothing brand Beverley founded in 2019. Despite Beverley owning the brand and having one million Instagram followers, the ASA ruled that the ads violated the CAP code, which requires clear labeling of paid-for content. Miles Lockwood, director of complaints and investigations at the ASA, emphasized the importance of transparent advertising, stating that influencers must visibly mark their ads to avoid confusion among viewers. Social media advertising laws are becoming stricter to ensure consumers are not misled by undisclosed promotions. Beverley, who also owns the fitness supplements brand Shreddy and the planner business The Productivity Method, acknowledged the ASA\'s decision and expressed a desire for clearer guidelines on how business owners can discuss their work online without misleading consumers. The issue of cross-pollination, where business owners promote their brands on personal social media accounts, was central to the case. Tala argued that the Instagram ads and TikTok ads did not require the \"#ad\" label because Beverley\'s ownership of the brand was evident through her language and association with the products. However, the ASA maintained that all marketing communications must be obviously identifiable, regardless of the influencer\'s commercial interest in the brand. According to ASA guidelines published in 2023, influencers and brand owners must clearly indicate when they are promoting their own products, even if the content is created in a non-paid-for space. In response to the ruling, all social media posts by Beverley about Tala must now include a clear marker, such as \"#ad,\" to ensure compliance with advertising standards. This is crucial as social media advertising laws continue to evolve to protect consumers. This ruling by the ASA sets a precedent for influencer marketing, emphasizing the importance of transparency and disclosure in online advertising. As social media continues to play a significant role in shaping consumer behavior, regulatory bodies are increasingly vigilant about ensuring that advertising standards are upheld, particularly in cases where influencers have a commercial interest in the promoted brands. The decision underscores the need for influencers and brand owners alike to adhere to advertising guidelines to maintain trust and integrity with their audiences. This vigilance is especially pertinent for platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where influencer marketing is prevalent, and the line between organic content and advertising can often be blurred.
Pixar Layoffs 2024 Is Largest In Studio\’s History; 14% Of Staff Affected
Pixar Animation Studios announced a significant restructuring that resulted in the layoffs of approximately 175 employees, representing about 14% of its workforce - the company\'s biggest so far. This decision, confirmed by Pixar\'s president Jim Morris, is part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations at the studio, with no plans to rehire the affected workers. This move has been long speculated, with initial estimates suggesting a more severe reduction of around 20%, or roughly 260 employees. However, the actual impact was less than anticipated, and notably, upper management within Pixar was spared from the layoffs. Pixar, which originated as a graphics division of Lucasfilm in 1979, became an independent entity in 1986 with significant backing from Steve Jobs, who acquired a majority stake. In 2006, Disney purchased Pixar, and the studio has since been integral to Disney\'s content creation strategy, particularly for the Disney+ streaming platform. The recent Disney Pixar layoffs are part of broader challenges faced by the studio. Under Bob Chapek\'s brief tenure as Disney CEO in late 2022, Pixar\'s return to theatrical releases was rocky. High-profile releases like \"Lightyear,\" which had a production budget of $200 million, and \"Onward\" in 2020, underperformed at the box office, the latter significantly affected by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bob Iger, who returned as Disney\'s CEO in November 2022, has emphasized the importance of high-quality theatrical releases in an increasingly competitive streaming market. Despite the recent setbacks, Pixar achieved success with \"Elemental,\" which grossed approximately $500 million at the box office and gained popularity on Disney+. Looking to the future, Pixar remains committed to delivering compelling content. The upcoming release schedule includes \"Inside Out 2\" set for June 14, 2024, followed by \"Elio\" in 2025, and \"Toy Story 5\" in 2026. These projects signal Pixar\'s ongoing efforts to recover from recent challenges and reaffirm its position as a leader in animation. The 2024 Pixar layoffs underscore the studio\'s need to adapt in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. As Pixar navigates these changes, the focus remains on delivering high-quality content that resonates with audiences both in theaters and on streaming platforms.
Influencer\’s 2-Year-Old Dies After Drowning In Hotel Room Pool While Parents Were Napping
Influencer Jasmine Yong and her husband Lim Kong Wang are grieving the loss of their 2-year-old son, Enzo, who tragically drowned in a private hotel pool while the couple was asleep. The devastating incident occurred on May 17 during a stay at the hotel to celebrate Mother\'s Day. Jasmine Yong, known for her lifestyle and beauty content on Instagram, shared the heartbreaking news on May 22. In a post translated to English, she recounted waking up from a nap to find Enzo missing and the door to the indoor pool unlocked. Due to poor network connection, the couple couldn\'t immediately call for help, so they administered emergency CPR before seeking assistance from hotel staff. Emergency personnel were able to revive him, however Enzo drifted into a coma. Despite efforts to revive him, Enzo remained in a coma after being rushed to the hospital. Sadly, his heartbeat ceased due to insufficient oxygen supply, and he passed away, leaving Jasmine Yong and her husband devastated. Jasmine Yong emphasized that the accident was unforeseen and urged against speculation or rumors. She expressed gratitude for the support she and her husband received and stressed the importance of protecting her family. Jasmine Yong also shared a video memorializing her son, who had gained a significant following on his own Instagram account managed by his parents. Prior to his passing, she had asked her followers for prayers while Enzo was in the ICU, hoping for his recovery. Following the tragedy, condolences and messages of support poured in from fans, friends, and family members, offering comfort to Jasmine Yong and her family during the difficult time. In response to the heartbreaking loss, many followers and well-wishers expressed their condolences and solidarity with Jasmine Yong and her family. The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of water safety, particularly when young children are involved. As the community mourns Enzo\'s untimely passing, efforts to raise awareness about pool safety and the need for constant supervision of children around water have gained renewed emphasis. Which hotel Jasmine Yong and her family were staying at during this tragic event has not been disclosed publicly. Jasmine Yong, known for her detailed and engaging content, has chosen to keep some aspects of the incident private as she navigates this period of grief.
Georgia Social Media Bill Wants 15% Of Child Influencers\’ Earnings Be Saved, Only Accessible At 18
Georgia lawmakers are considering new legislation designed to safeguard the interests of child influencers on popular social media platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. Representative Kim Schofield (D-Georgia) has proposed Georgia House Bill 968, which mandates that a minimum of 15% of earnings from content featuring children in 30% or more of the video material be set aside in an account accessible only once the child reaches 18 years of age. Schofield emphasized the need to protect young performers, noting the growing trend of parents managing their children\'s social media presence, often without the child\'s input on financial matters. The legislation aims to ensure that child influencers are fairly compensated and have access to their earnings when they come of age. Tech expert Phil Yanov underscored the significant financial potential of the influencer industry, highlighting the possibility of life-changing wealth for a select few. Drawing parallels to the Coogan Act, which has safeguarded young actors in Hollywood for decades, Schofield expressed her intention to model Georgia\'s regulations on Illinois\' recent legislation. Illinois became the first state to enact protections for child influencers, setting a precedent for other states to follow. Schofield emphasized that the proposed regulations are not intended to stifle creativity but rather to safeguard the well-being of children involved in influencer activities. Efforts to reach out to several child influencers accounts for comments on the proposed legislation were unsuccessful. WYFF News 4 will continue to monitor the bill\'s progress through the legislative process and provide updates as it advances. The proposed Georgia social media bill reflects a growing recognition of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by child influencers in the digital age. By establishing guidelines for influencer earnings allocation and working hours, lawmakers aim to create a supportive environment that balances creative expression with child welfare. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders, including parents, social media platforms, and advocacy groups, are likely to engage in discussions to shape the final framework for protecting child influencers in Georgia.
China Targets Super Rich, Wealth-Flaunting Influencers Amid Slow Economic Growth
China has intensified its crackdown on social media influencers flaunting their wealth as part of efforts to address social inequality and maintain social stability. On Tuesday, three of the country\'s most high-profile luxury lifestyle influencers—Wang Hongquanxin, Baoyu Jiajie, and Bo Gongzi—disappeared from popular platforms such as Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and Weibo. Wang Hongquanxin, known for his collection of rare Hermès bags and jade jewelry, recently opened a secondhand luxury store in Beijing. He was last seen at a BMW event in Cannes, hosted by Naomi Campbell. Baoyu Jiajie, nicknamed \"Abalone Sister,\" comes from a wealthy family owning a luxury dried goods chain in Hong Kong and Macao. She frequently appeared at exclusive events with Hong Kong elites and celebrities. Bo Gongzi, recognized for his extravagant spending on luxury brands like Hermès and Dior, often shared his high-end shopping and travel experiences online. State-owned media outlet The Cover reported that the ban is part of China’s initiative to foster a “civilized, healthy and harmonious” social environment. Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and Weibo have all taken significant actions in line with this policy. Between May 1-7, Douyin removed 4,701 messages and 11 accounts. Xiaohongshu deleted 4,273 posts and closed 383 accounts in the past two weeks. Weibo removed over 1,100 pieces of content deemed to promote undesirable values, such as wealth flaunting and money worship. Chinese influencers have become a vital part of the marketing strategies for luxury brands, particularly on platforms like Weibo, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. These influencers, through their extensive reach and engagement, create viral content that boosts brand awareness and showcases new products. However, the swift removal of these influencers underscores China\'s commitment to curbing displays of excess wealth and addressing social inequalities amid economic challenges. The crackdown has disrupted luxury brands\' strategies to engage Chinese consumers through localized, user-generated content. With high-profile Weibo influencers and popular figures on Douyin and Xiaohongshu disappearing from the scene, brands that have heavily invested in influencer partnerships may need to reassess their strategies and find new ways to reach consumers. Douyin, often compared to TikTok, and Xiaohongshu, known internationally as Little Red Book, have distinct user bases and content styles. Douyin focuses more on short, viral videos, while Xiaohongshu combines user-generated content with e-commerce, making it a unique platform for lifestyle and shopping-related content. The recent crackdown affects both platforms differently but significantly. The disappearance of these influencers from social media also raises questions about the future of digital marketing in China. With the government\'s clear stance on reducing wealth flaunting, the focus might shift towards promoting more socially responsible and culturally sensitive content. This change could redefine the landscape of social media influence in China, pushing both influencers and brands to adapt to a more regulated and scrutinized environment. As China moves towards a more controlled and equitable social media environment, influencers will need to align their content with government policies, emphasizing modesty and social responsibility. This shift may foster a new era of digital marketing where authenticity and cultural sensitivity take precedence, ultimately reshaping how brands connect with Chinese consumers on platforms like Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and Weibo.
‘God’s Influencer’: First Millennial Saint Carlo Acutis May Be Canonized By 2025
Pope Francis has recognized a second miracle attributed to Italian teenager Carlo Acutis, paving the way for him to become the first saint of the millennial generation. Known as \"God\'s influencer,\" Acutis used his computer skills to promote the Catholic faith before his death from leukemia in 2006 at age 15. This recognition of a second miracle is a significant milestone, allowing for his canonization, and making Carlo Acutis a saint. Acutis was born in London in 1991 and raised in Milan, where he managed his parish\'s website and later assisted a Vatican-based academy. From a young age, he showed a remarkable aptitude for technology, which he combined with his deep faith to create an influential online presence. His website, which cataloged Eucharistic miracles from around the world, remains a testament to his dedication and innovative approach to faith. This initiative not only demonstrated his technical skills but also his commitment to making religious knowledge accessible to a broader audience. Pope Francis decided to attribute the second miracle during a meeting with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, head of the Vatican\'s saint-making department, according to a statement released on Thursday. Carlo Acutis was beatified in 2020 following the recognition of his first miracle. The details of the second miracle have not been disclosed, but its recognition is a crucial step toward his canonization. The Vatican has not yet announced when the canonization will take place, but this development has been eagerly awaited by many. The Catholic Church teaches that miracles are acts of God, with saints interceding on behalf of those who pray to them. Miracles typically involve the medically inexplicable healing of individuals. The first miracle attributed to Carlo Acutis involved the healing of a Brazilian boy suffering from a rare congenital disease after prayers were offered to Acutis. Acutis\' beatification and impending sainthood have inspired many young Catholics around the world. As the millennial saint Carlo Acutis, his use of modern technology to spread his faith resonates deeply with today\'s digital-savvy youth. His legacy continues to encourage young believers to utilize their skills and platforms for positive and spiritual purposes, bridging the gap between faith and technology. His life exemplifies how traditional religious messages can find new life and relevance in the contemporary world. Carlo Acutis gained recognition for his significant role in evangelizing through the internet. His efforts in managing the Carlo Acutis website and his commitment to documenting Eucharistic miracles have made a lasting impact. His website remains a resource for many, showcasing his vision of making faith accessible and engaging through digital means. Named a patron of World Youth Day in Lisbon last year, Carlo Acutis\' influence and importance to the younger generation of Catholics are profound. His story has been a source of inspiration for many, demonstrating that sainthood is not reserved for the distant past but is achievable in the modern age. Carlo\'s journey to sainthood underscores the potential of the digital age to foster and spread spiritual values. The recognition of Carlo Acutis as a saint will not only celebrate his life and contributions but also highlight the significant role of modern technology in promoting spiritual values. As the first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis will symbolize the intersection of faith and technology, showing how digital tools can be used to enhance and spread religious teachings. His life and work continue to inspire young people around the world, encouraging them to see their digital skills as a means to serve and uplift their faith communities.
TikTok influencer’s Real Estate Cooperative Raises $2 million With 5,000 Members In 24 Hours
The Middle Class United Cooperative (MCU), a new real estate cooperative, has made a striking debut by raising over $2 million and attracting 5,000 members within 24 hours of its launch. In just two weeks, MCU’s growth has surged to over $3.3 million with more than 6,500 members, reflecting a strong demand for affordable housing solutions among Americans. Founded by Joe Redden, a former Army veteran and TikTok influencer known as OlderMillenial, MCU aims to tackle the housing affordability crisis affecting the middle class. With a democratic model that grants each member equal voting rights, MCU prioritizes community, transparency, and social responsibility. The cooperative also redistributes surplus profits to charitable causes, reinforcing its commitment to societal impact. MCU\'s first round of membership is capped at 40,000 members to ensure fairness and equal participation. Each member can invest a minimum and maximum of $500, ensuring equal influence in voting for investments and non-profit activities. \"I want to be part of a unifying movement that shows the elites we are not helpless, and we still have the will to fight on the battlefield of money,\" said Nicholas Alexander, an MCU member and United States Army veteran. Joe Redden, who has gained over a million followers on TikTok in under ten months, uses his platform to advocate for financial stability for middle-class families. \"MCU\'s early success is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and innovative solutions in tackling pressing social issues. We are thrilled with the overwhelming support and rapid growth of MCU,\" said Redden. \"Our rapid growth shows the power of community and the urgent need for affordable housing. MCU is here to redefine what\'s possible for the middle class. We\'re creating more than just affordable housing; we\'re creating a future where the middle class has a voice and a stake in their own success.\" Members are joining MCU to be part of this unique movement for the middle class. \"So much of life seems out of my control these days. The world progresses with the wants and desires of the elite while leaving the majority left out and displeased with the results of their decisions. That\'s why I joined. To feel like my voice and actions have an effect in a positive way on the world. One that will help those like me and not just the few like them. I\'d rather be a part of something with action than passively complain,\" says member Cory Green. The Middle Class United Cooperative (MCU) stands out as a beacon of hope for those seeking affordable housing solutions and greater financial stability. By leveraging Joe Redden\'s influence on TikTok, the cooperative has quickly garnered attention and support, demonstrating the significant impact social media can have on social and economic initiatives.
Kai Cenat Develops Real-Life ‘Hunger Games’ With 50 Famous Influencers
Kai Cenat, a leading name in the content creator space, has announced plans for a live Hunger Games-style streaming event featuring 50 of the world’s most popular influencers. Cenat, known for breaking multiple Twitch records, including a notable stream where he played Elden Ring, revealed his ambitious project during his May 22, 2024, stream. Kai Cenat shared that he has been developing this event for the past six months. He described it as “the very first fully professionally organized live Hunger Games,” hinting at a large-scale production involving drones and combat suits. “This has to be huge,” Cenat emphasized, as he detailed his vision for the event. The real-life Hunger Games-inspired event aims to bring a new level of excitement to Twitch, leveraging Cenat\'s creative vision and his knack for engaging content. Cenat aims to involve about 50 top content creators, with his sights set on MrBeast as one of the first participants. He is also in discussions with Nike to serve as an official sponsor for the event. This collaboration could mark one of the biggest streaming events ever, combining major influencers with significant corporate sponsorship. The involvement of such high-profile participants and brands highlights the event\'s potential to revolutionize the live streaming space. The Hunger Games, a hugely popular young adult franchise from the 2010s, provides the inspiration for Cenat’s event. The book and film series was a cornerstone of the YA dystopian genre, alongside other franchises like Twilight, Divergent, and The Maze Runner. By bringing elements of this iconic series into a live, interactive format, Kai Cenat is poised to create a groundbreaking entertainment experience. Fans are eagerly anticipating further updates, speculating on the format and the participating influencers. The prospect of seeing their favorite creators in a competitive, Hunger Games-inspired setting has generated significant buzz online. This event could set a new precedent for live streaming collaborations, blending entertainment with high-stakes competition in a way that has never been done before. Although details remain sparse, Cenat promised more information would be revealed in the coming weeks and months. As anticipation builds, the Twitch community is abuzz with excitement for what could be a landmark event in the world of streaming.
Influencer Reveals How He Murdered His Wife After Finding Her In Bed With Someone Else
San Diego TikTok star Ali Abulaban, 31, is on trial for the alleged murder of his estranged wife, Ana Abulaban, and her lover, Rayburn Barron. On Wednesday, Ali testified, describing how he couldn\'t stop shooting the pair after finding them in bed together on October 21, 2021. \"I didn’t expect Ana would ever do that to me,\" Ali said. He explained that he struggled with drug addiction and mental illness but was trying to fix his marriage. \"When I saw that it was him, I couldn’t take it. I couldn’t take the betrayal.\" Ali Abulaban recounted the moment he opened fire. \"Before I could stop myself, I just f---ing snapped. My gun was in my hand, and next thing, I’m shooting, and I can’t stop. I’m just shooting, and I’m even startled. It’s like I’m watching it happen, like I’m in the passenger seat of my own body.\" After the shooting, Ali said he called his mother and then 911. \"I called 911 to get them help in the chance to save her,\" he stated. Following the shootings, he arranged for his then-5-year-old daughter’s care before turning himself in to the police. He collected his daughter from school, and they were soon surrounded by police cars. He told his daughter, \"I hurt mommy. I have to go away now.\" Prosecutors allege that Ana Abulaban had asked Ali to move out on October 18, 2021. Ali checked into a hotel but later returned to their high-rise apartment, trashed it, and installed a recording device on his daughter\'s iPad. On October 21, he allegedly heard Ana and Rayburn Barron together through the device, prompting him to return to the apartment and shoot Barron three times and Ana once in the head. At the time of the alleged murders, Ali Abulaban was a well-known TikTok personality with approximately 940,000 followers. He was known for his comedy skits and impersonations of Tony Montana from the 1983 film \"Scarface.\" Deputy District Attorney Taren Brast, who spoke after Ali’s arraignment in October 2021, highlighted the premeditated nature of the crimes. Brast emphasized that Ali had installed the recording device specifically to catch Ana with Barron, suggesting a calculated plan leading up to the murders. The prosecution aims to prove that the murders were not a spontaneous act of rage but a deliberate and premeditated action by Ali Abulaban. The trial continues as both sides present their arguments and evidence in this high-profile case. Ali testified in his own defense, describing his shock and inability to stop the shooting. The trial continues as the court examines the details of the case.