Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Ad Execs TikTok Benefits Video Slammed For Being Tone-Deaf
Executives from leading advertising firms have drawn criticism for their participation in a promotional video for TikTok, which was released just days after the U.S. Congress moved to force a divestiture of the Chinese-owned app due to national security concerns. The 75-second video, posted on LinkedIn, features top executives from Havas, IPG Mediabrands, Horizon Media, Publicis Group, GroupM, and Dentsu, humorously endorsing TikTok benefits for business and alluding to the app as a critical platform for brand success. The video\'s release coincides with the U.S. government\'s intensified scrutiny of TikTok and which has now been dubbed as \'TikTok ban.\' In April, President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan bill mandating TikTok\'s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app within a year or face a complete ban in the United States. This legislation is a direct response to the serious concerns that the app could be exploited for espionage and the dissemination of misinformation under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party. In the video, executives joke about the platform\'s engagement capabilities and shopping habits influenced by TikTok trends, seemingly downplaying the serious political and security debates surrounding the app. Dani Benowitz from IPG Mediabrands highlighted TikTok\'s audience engagement as its \"superpower,\" while Shelby Saville of Publicis Media mentioned being emotionally moved by TikTok videos. The ad has faced significant backlash, with many arguing that it fails to acknowledge the potential ramifications of endorsing a platform currently under intense legal and ethical scrutiny. Nathan Leamer, former FCC policy adviser and CEO of Fixed Gear Strategies, expressed his concern over the advertising industry\'s readiness to align with TikTok despite the mass exodus from other platforms like X due to financial concerns. Critics, including Michael Sobolik from the American Foreign Policy Council, have accused TikTok of exploiting U.S. companies to advance the interests of the Chinese government. This alleged exploitation could potentially undermine the very fabric of American democracy and compromise national security. The video, which received 400 reactions on LinkedIn, has sparked discussions about the role of American media firms in resisting foreign influence that might prioritize short-term gains over long-term national security. Representatives for the media firms involved and TikTok have largely refrained from commenting on the backlash, although this TikTok ban news did imply a misunderstanding regarding the video\'s intent in its public response. This lack of direct response raises questions about their commitment to addressing the concerns raised. The controversy highlights the complex intersection of business interests and national security in the digital age.
RuPaul TikTok Account Subtly Supports Platform Despite Looming US Ban
Renowned \'Queen of Drag\' and now rising TikTok influencer RuPaul has subtly expressed support for the platform amidst the looming ban of the app in the United States. In a recent post, RuPaul revealed that he frequently uses TikTok because his partner enjoys it and finds it entertaining. However, despite the controversy surrounding the potential ban, RuPaul opted not to engage in discussions regarding Congress\' decision. In the post, RuPaul said it\'s not about \"making a statement\" but \"having fun and being visual.\" RuPaul, whose real name is RuPaul Charles, also said that he used to be visible on another platform but has become \"a little hostile,\" which explained why he has been active online only recently via TikTok. RuPaul\'s TikTok post serves as an implicit display of support for the social media platform. RuPaul indicated a preference for the platform and continued to use it despite the uncertainty surrounding its future in the country. Notably, RuPaul\'s stance on the issue aligns with his current role as the host of the popular television show \"RuPaul\'s Drag Race,\" which has garnered a large following worldwide. The veteran queen\'s decision to refrain from delving into the political aspects of the TikTok ban underscores a desire to maintain focus on the platform\'s entertainment value rather than its geopolitical implications. This approach aligns with RuPaul\'s public image as a cultural icon known for promoting positivity, inclusivity, and self-expression through drag performance. As discussions surrounding the fate of TikTok in the United States continue to unfold, RuPaul\'s subtle endorsement of the platform adds a unique perspective to the ongoing debate. While some may interpret his support as implicit, others may view it as reflecting the app\'s widespread appeal and cultural significance, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. With RuPaul\'s influence extending beyond entertainment to social media, his stance on the TikTok ban serves as a reminder of the platform\'s ability to foster creativity, connectivity, and community engagement among users worldwide. TikTok faces challenges as US lawmakers demand a sale to a US company by early 2025 or risk a ban due to security concerns. Despite efforts like Project Texas, concerns persist about data security and Beijing\'s influence. A sale could be complex due to TikTok\'s size and China\'s potential veto. Bans on apps like LinkedIn and TikTok signal a trend of countries walling off users over security concerns. TikTok\'s challenges reflect global concerns over data privacy and national security. As governments grapple with foreign-controlled apps, debates extend to other tech giants like Meta, highlighting the need for regulatory frameworks balancing innovation with security to protect users\' rights and national interests in an interconnected world.
Instagram Life Hacks: Mom\’s Impressive Food Trick Blows Up On IG
A social media sensation has erupted over a mum\'s ingenious grape hack, simplifying the task of serving this beloved fruit. Erica, an influencer, shared one of her life hacks for home in a brief video, demonstrating how shaking a bunch of grapes in a snaplock bag effortlessly removes them from the stem. In the video via the Instagram app, Erica vigorously shakes the bag, revealing the grapes detached from their stems. Her caption expressed excitement over the hack\'s potential time-saving benefits, particularly in a household with children. She humorously acknowledged her enthusiasm for such simple pleasures, emphasizing the joy it brings her. Erica\'s followers echoed her enthusiasm, with many expressing eagerness to try one of her life hacks 2024 themselves. Despite initial concerns about the grapes becoming soft or bruised from the shaking, Erica reassured her audience that her grapes remained unharmed. The viral nature of Erica\'s post underscores the widespread appeal of Instagram life hacks, especially those that cater to busy parents seeking efficiency in their daily routines. Erica\'s candid approach and relatable content have resonated with audiences, sparking conversations and further engagement on social media platforms. As the video continues to circulate online, it serves as a reminder of the power of social media in disseminating everyday tips and tricks, ultimately enhancing the lives of individuals through innovative solutions to common challenges. In response to Erica\'s viral grape hack, users across social media platforms have been sharing their own experiences and variations of the technique. Some have offered additional tips, such as using different types of bags or containers, while others have suggested applying the method to other fruits with similar stems. The widespread adoption and adaptation of Erica\'s hack highlight the collaborative and communal nature of online communities, where individuals come together to exchange knowledge and improve everyday practices. As the conversation continues to evolve, it underscores the value of digital platforms in fostering connectivity and collective problem-solving among diverse audiences.
Jack Dorsey Leaves Bluesky Board For Undisclosed Reason
In today\'s social media industry news, Jack Dorsey leaves Bluesky. Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and one of the primary backers of Bluesky, has stepped down from its board, sparking speculation about the future of the decentralized social media project. The announcement came through a post on X, where Dorsey mentioned grants for open protocols from his philanthropic Start Small initiative. When questioned about his status on the Bluesky board of directors, Dorsey responded with a brief \"no,\" declining to provide further explanation. While the exact reason for his departure remains undisclosed, it is believed to be a strategic move to allow the project to evolve independently. Bluesky Social, which aims to develop an open and decentralized standard for social media, expressed gratitude for Dorsey\'s contributions in funding and initiating the project. However, his departure has prompted the company to seek a new board member who shares their commitment to empowering users in their social networking experience. The company reassures its users and stakeholders that it remains steadfast in its mission and will continue to develop an open and decentralized standard for social media. Founded in 2019 under Dorsey\'s leadership at Twitter, Bluesky has weathered the storm of Dorsey\'s departure and evolved into an independent public benefit corporation led by CEO Jay Graber with venture capital backing. Despite the significant change, Bluesky continues to thrive as an open-source social network running on proto, the decentralized protocol developed by the project. This resilience is a testament to the strength and vision of the project. Dorsey\'s exit from Bluesky comes amidst his active engagement on X, where he has been vocal on various topics, including corporate news and cultural discussions. While his departure from Bluesky was not publicly acknowledged until recently, Jack Dorsey\'s businesses and influence as a central figure associated with the project remain notable. As Bluesky forges ahead with its mission to revolutionize social media through decentralization, the search for a new board member takes on a crucial role. This search underscores the urgency and importance of finding someone who shares the project\'s core values and objectives and who can contribute to the continued success of the project.
Twitter Stories: What Is X\’s New Feature About?
X, formerly known as Twitter, has introduced a new feature called Stories, powered by Elon Musk\'s AI chatbot Grok, to provide summarized news content to its users. The Twitter stories feature, available to X\'s Premium subscribers, offers personalized summaries of trending stories featured in the Explore section\'s For You tab. The For You page curates popular news and stories on Twitter circulating within a user\'s network, along with suggested items, making it a convenient destination for users to stay updated without extensive scrolling. With Stories, users can now access concise summaries of each trending story, enhancing their browsing experience. These stories can range from breaking news to industry updates, ensuring a diverse and relevant news feed. Grok\'s AI-generated summaries provide a quick overview of the subject matter, allowing you to grasp the key points of each story. However, a disclaimer is in place to ensure your trust and confidence, urging you to verify Grok AI on Twitter outputs due to the potential for errors in AI-generated content. This initiative, Grok AI on X, marks a departure from Twitter\'s previous approach to summarizing trends, which involved adding headlines and descriptions manually. With Grok\'s Stories, X aims to offer users more comprehensive and real-time news summaries. Access to Elon Musk\'s Grok AI, a cutting-edge technology, is a key feature of X\'s Premium subscriptions. Starting at just $8 monthly for web users, this innovative addition underscores X\'s commitment to delivering the latest features and enhancing your engagement on our platform. As AI-powered news summaries gain traction, they present an intriguing potential. They could serve as a gateway, sparking curiosity and driving traffic to news sources. However, concerns about potential misinformation and its implications for the media industry also arise, highlighting the need for careful consumption.
56% Of US Adults Support TikTok Ban, Believes China Uses App To Spy
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, a significant indicator of public sentiment, reveals that half of U.S. adults support a nationwide TikTok ban, the popular social media app owned by China-based ByteDance. This strong stance is driven by concerns about data privacy and Chinese propaganda, contributing to a majority of Americans holding an unfavorable view of the platform. The \'Protecting Americans’ Data From Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024,\' otherwise known as the TikTok ban in US, a significant legislative action signed into law by President Biden, mandates ByteDance to sell its stake in TikTok within nine months to a non-foreign adversary party. The seriousness of this law is underscored by the potential outcome of failure to comply- the app\'s distribution being outlawed, potentially leading to a nationwide ban. TikTok, in a move to protect its interests, has announced plans to challenge the law on First Amendment grounds legally. However, the potential consequences of this challenge are significant. If unsuccessful, the ban could take effect, as ByteDance has expressed reluctance to divest its interest in TikTok, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the platform\'s future. Key findings from the poll include a significant 55% of Americans believing that ByteDance utilizes TikTok to influence public opinion in the United States and TikTok spying on people. Additionally, 46% suspect that the Chinese government employs the app for spying purposes, highlighting the depth of public distrust. Sen. Maria Cantwell, a vocal critic of TikTok and ByteDance, has accused them of \"weaponizing\" data and AI to spy on Americans, further fueling concerns about the platform\'s security and influence. Her stance reflects a broader sentiment among policymakers about the potential risks posed by foreign-owned social media platforms, including TikTok spying on Americans. Despite potential implications for content creators and small businesses, 50% of Americans support a TikTok ban, citing data privacy and national security as primary concerns. The ban could lead to a significant loss of revenue for content creators and small businesses that rely on TikTok\'s platform. The poll, conducted among 1,022 U.S. residents aged 18 or older, highlights the ongoing debate surrounding TikTok\'s presence in the country.
Famous Influencer Shot Dead After Sharing Her Location On Instagram
In Quito, Ecuador, an Instagram influencer was shot and killed after sharing her location online. Instagram influencer Landy Parraga Goyburo met a tragic end after a fatal mistake led to a chilling incident. While dining at a restaurant, Goyburo shared her location, unwittingly attracting some armed assailants. Two masked men stormed the restaurant, targeting Goyburo amidst the chaos. Despite her efforts to shield herself, she fell victim to their attack, captured on security footage. The violent incident shocked both online and offline communities, raising the issue of current social media personalities sharing too much online. Speculation swirled about the motive behind the attack, hinting at Goyburo\'s alleged connections to criminal elements. However, one undeniable truth emerged - a promising life was tragically cut short, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the surface of social media\'s allure. Landy Goyburo\'s Instagram was filled with messages of condolences from followers and other Ecuadorian influencers. As Quito mourned the loss of Goyburo, her untimely demise left behind a legacy of beauty, glamour, and tragedy, forever altering the landscape of social media history. The incident prompted reflection on the risks associated with social media exposure and the potential consequences of sharing personal information online. It served as a cautionary tale, reminding individuals of the importance of safeguarding their privacy and being mindful of the content they post on public platforms. As investigations into Goyburo\'s death unfolded, authorities intensified efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Communities, locally and globally, rallied to support justice for Goyburo, advocating for increased safety measures and awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents. Despite the grim event, Instagram remains a top choice of influencers when it comes to platforms where they share their personal lives. Some use it to inspire people who are undergoing similar circumstances. For example, Maddy Baloy, a TikTok personality whose courageous battle with terminal cancer resonated with millions, also used Instagram to share her journey. She recently passed away from the disease.
39% of Influencers Use Influencer Marketing Platforms For Brand Deals: Survey
The American Influencer Council (AIC) conducted a comprehensive survey on content creators\' brand deal preferences. The survey, which received 567 responses from content creators primarily earning from social media, revealed that 55% of respondents prefer social media marketplaces for securing brand deals, while 39% opt for influencer marketing platforms. Qianna Smith Bruneteau, founder and executive director of AIC, highlights the accessibility and popularity of social media marketplaces among small and mid-level creators. These marketplaces, such as TikTok, are the go-to platforms for creators to secure brand partnerships and gigs, underscoring their significant role in the brand deal landscape. The survey also shared influencer marketing benefits and unveiled the strategic approach of influencers in securing brand deals. They employ various methods, including direct messages to brands, influencer marketing deals, the use of platforms like Slack, and engagement with talent managers or agents. It\'s noteworthy that 25.9% of respondents utilize email pitching, while 23.8% rely on social media direct messages to initiate brand collaborations, showcasing their resourcefulness and creativity influencer marketing agency in the field. Regarding the frequency of brand deals needed to sustain a livelihood, the survey found that 28% of content creators require five to nine brand deals monthly, while 16% need at least ten. Conversely, 46% of creators indicated that two to four monthly brand deals are sufficient for a sustainable income. The duration of brand partnerships varied, with 31% lasting a month, 21% lasting a week, and 22% extending beyond three months. Longer-term partnerships, lasting six months or a year, were less common, reported by 12.5% and 11.9% of respondents, respectively. The survey illuminated the diverse payment timelines that influencers encounter, showcasing their resilience in navigating financial challenges. While 32% of creators receive instant payments, a significant 29% have to wait at least a month post-deal for payment. Moreover, 10% of creators face delays of 60 to 90 days after the conclusion of the brand deal before receiving payment, highlighting the financial challenges they often navigate with determination and adaptability. The survey underscores the evolving landscape of influencer brand partnerships and influencer brand collaboration for content creators, emphasizing the significance of social media marketplaces and the diverse strategies employed to secure brand collaborations.
Gen Z Consumers Don’t Care If Influencers Are AI, New Study Shows
A recent social media strategy research by analytics firm Sprout Social has illuminated Gen Z\'s unique perception of AI influencers and authenticity on social media. The 2024 Influencer Marketing Report, a comprehensive survey of 2,000 respondents from the US and UK, has unveiled a stark contrast in how Gen Z views AI and authenticity compared to older generations. The report has presented a fascinating dichotomy. While governments are still grappling with the regulation and integration of AI, survey participants have shown a variety of attitudes toward brands working with AI social media influencers. Twenty-seven percent of respondents expressed indifference, 37% said it would increase their interest in the brand, and an equal percentage stated it would make them distrustful. Importantly, 46% of Gen Z respondents expressed a significantly higher interest in brands collaborating with AI-generated influencers, hinting at a potential avenue for brands to explore. Furthermore, the study highlighted a generational disparity in the importance of influencer authenticity. While approximately half of Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers value influencer authenticity, only 35% of Gen Z respondents shared this sentiment. For Gen Z, the report revealed that follower count holds more weight than authenticity. Forty-seven percent of Gen Z respondents indicated that they value an influencer\'s follower count, emphasizing the significance of numerical metrics over perceived authenticity. Overall, the study underscores the importance of understanding Gen Z\'s social media trends and unique attitudes toward AI influencers and authenticity, which differ significantly from those of older generations. It reveals that numerical metrics such as follower count wield more influence in shaping their perceptions of social media content. The report not only provides valuable insights into AI influencers marketing and authenticity but also underscores the evolving landscape of influencer marketing. With Gen Z\'s emphasis on numerical metrics like follower count, brands are faced with the challenge of recalibrating their strategies to effectively engage this demographic. This shift suggests that traditional markers of authenticity may hold less sway than quantifiable measures of influence, prompting brands to reevaluate their approach to influencer partnerships and content creation. This adaptation is crucial for brands seeking to resonate with Gen Z consumers and forge meaningful connections in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Australia’s ‘First Influencer’ Shares Impressive Body Transformation: ‘One Life, One Body’
Australia\'s first influencer, Kurt Coleman, has left fans in awe with a dramatic new look, a stark contrast to his previous self. The 26-year-old influencer, known for his controversial online presence, took to Instagram to reveal his stunning makeover. In the photoshoot, Kurt Coleman of Australia boldly sported red eye shadow, painted over one eye, and applied pink lipstick, radiating confidence as he posed for the camera. Captioning the images as \"Me if I was a superhero,\" Coleman unveiled his sculpted physique, a result of his life-changing decision to abstain from alcohol two years ago. Having undergone a significant transformation, Coleman now looked back on his journey to self-acceptance, expressing a newfound appreciation for his body. He shared his journey on Instagram, where he was met with an outpouring of praise and support from his friends and followers, underscoring the importance of a supportive community in personal growth. Social media sensation Liam Ferrari lauded Coleman\'s health journey, expressing his pride in Coleman\'s transformation. Fashion designer Effie Katsaounis also showed her admiration with a fire emoji, a testament to the boldness of Coleman\'s new look and the support he garnered from his community. Coleman\'s transformation comes after a health scare that led to his decision to quit alcohol. Hospitalized after consuming a single glass of wine, Coleman was diagnosed with pancreatitis, prompting him to prioritize his health and well-being. While reflecting on his journey, Coleman expressed gratitude for his personal growth and self-discovery and acknowledged the challenges he bravely faced. Coleman embraces his authenticity with a renewed sense of self, proudly sharing his body transformation as a testament to his journey toward self-love and acceptance, inspiring respect and admiration in others. Coleman\'s journey is a powerful testament to the significance of prioritizing health and well-being, particularly in the whirlwind of social media. His candidness about his struggles and transformation resonates deeply with many, sparking meaningful conversations about self-care and self-acceptance. By sharing his journey, Coleman inspires and empowers others to embrace positive changes in their lives, fostering a supportive online community where individuals can feel encouraged to prioritize their mental and physical health. As he continues to share his experiences and growth, Coleman\'s story shines as a beacon of hope for those navigating their paths toward personal transformation and authenticity in the digital age.