Latest Influencer News in 2026
Looking to learn more about influencers? Check out our latest news from the most talked about influencers today!
Hershey To Start Review Of Its US Media Lineup
The Hershey Company has announced plans to conduct a formal agency review for its entire U.S. media portfolio, covering the candy, mint, gum, salty, and protein business units. The review process will be by invitation-only, as stated by the company. In 2021, Hershey appointed Horizon Media as its U.S. media agency of record for its core confectionary business. This review aligns with Hershey\'s enterprise transformation and its goal to establish itself as a leading force in the snacking industry. Over the past few years, Hershey has expanded its brand portfolio through acquisitions, including Amplify Snack Brands, One, Fulfil protein bars, and Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels. With these additions, Hershey sees an opportunity to centralize media responsibilities. Vinny Rinaldi, Hershey\'s head of U.S. media, expressed the company\'s vision to shape the future of media by building an integrated ecosystem to support its various business units. The Hershey media review will focus on areas such as connections planning, integrated investment and activation across all channels, as well as technology, analytics, and media operations capabilities. However, it will not extend to Hershey\'s international markets. The decision to conduct a Hershey media agency review of its U.S. roster underscores Hershey\'s commitment to optimizing its marketing strategies and adapting to evolving consumer preferences. By consolidating its media efforts across multiple business units, Hershey aims to leverage synergies and streamline operations to drive growth and innovation in an increasingly competitive market. Furthermore, the involvement of MediaLink in advising Hershey on the agency review highlights the company\'s dedication to seeking expert guidance in navigating the complex landscape of media, marketing and Hershey\'s social media direction. With MediaLink\'s expertise, Hershey is positioned to make informed decisions that align with its long-term business objectives and strengthen its position as a leader in the snacking industry. MediaLink, a media and marketing advisory firm, advises Hershey throughout the review process. A final decision on the agency selection is anticipated by the end of summer 2024. According to COMvergence, Hershey\'s estimated U.S. media spend for 2023 amounted to $308 million.
Minnesota To Ban \’Kidfluencers\’, Social Media Accounts That Profit Off Kids
The Minnesota House has passed House File 3488, a significant step towards regulating social media accounts that profit from featuring children under 14. This Minnesota social media bill, sponsored by Rep. Zack Stephenson, has garnered robust bipartisan support, with 103 votes in favor and 26 against. If approved by the Senate and signed into law, it will come into effect in July 2025, making Minnesota the second state in the U.S. to enact such regulations. Per a report, the bill is designed to address concerns surrounding the exploitation and privacy of children featured by Minnesota social media influencers. It takes a strong stance by prohibiting the monetization of content showcasing children under 14, otherwise knows as \'kidfluencer.\' It also ensures that a portion of earnings from accounts featuring children is set aside for the child in a trust account. Moreover, the bill stipulates that minors under 14 must appear in at least 30% of the videos produced, a provision aimed at preventing incidental appearances from triggering the regulations which could lead to kidfluencers exploitation. During House floor debate, Rep. Stephenson cited a New York Times investigation highlighting instances of parents profiting from images and videos of their children, including sexualized content. Critics and supporters raised concerns and offered differing perspectives on the bill\'s scope and impact. However, Stephenson emphasized the importance of ensuring that children involved in content creation receive fair compensation and protection of their rights, acknowledging the challenges in crafting legislation that balances free speech rights with the need to safeguard children\'s welfare and streamlining what could be kidfluencer pros and cons. Rep. Dawn Gillman, R-Dassel, shared anecdotes of families earning substantial incomes from social media accounts featuring family life, highlighting the financial stakes involved. She expressed concern about the burden on these families to meticulously track their children\'s appearances and earnings to comply with the proposed regulations. Gillman\'s remarks underscore the complex considerations surrounding the intersection of social media, family livelihoods, and child welfare. Meanwhile, Rep. Walter Hudson, R-Albertville, questioned whether this new social media ban bill adequately targeted those who profit from sexualizing children, suggesting a more targeted approach. He also raised concerns about the provisions allowing children to sue parents for failure to set aside money in trust accounts, questioning the practicality and effectiveness of such measures. Hudson\'s remarks reflect ongoing debates over the efficacy and scope of legislative efforts to address online child exploitation and parental accountability. Currently, more and more legislators are taking a stand on the adverse effects of social media among kids and teens.
Sen. Schatz Social Media Bill Will Set Age Restriction To 13 And Above
U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii, has introduced a bipartisan bill to set a minimum age limit for social media use at 13. Schatz\'s social media bill, named the Kids Off Social Media Act, seeks to mitigate the social media effects on children and teens. Co-introduced with Senators Ted Cruz (R-Tex.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Katie Britt (R-Ala.), the bill revises Schatz\'s previous attempts to regulate the digital environment for minors. It responds to increasing concerns among parents about the psychological effects of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok on children. In a statement, Senator Schatz highlighted the urgency of addressing what he described as an \"urgent health crisis\" related to children\'s use of various platforms and social media effects on mental health. \"The growing evidence is clear: social media is making kids more depressed, more anxious, and more suicidal,\" Schatz stated. The legislation would impose social media age restrictions and would prohibit children under 13 from creating or maintaining social media accounts. It also aims to protect teenagers by banning companies targeting users under 17 with algorithmically personalized content. Further, the bill would empower the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general to enforce these regulations. Senator Cruz emphasized the support from parents who worry about social media addiction and the anxiety-inducing nature of social media. \"Every parent with a young child or a teenager either worries about or knows first-hand the real harms and dangers of addictive and anxiety-inducing social media,” said Cruz. A survey from Count on Mothers bolsters support for the bill, finding that over 90% of mothers believe the social media age limit should be 13. Additionally, the legislation will follow the Children’s Internet Protection Act framework, requiring schools to block and filter social media access on federally funded networks. Public Citizen\'s executive vice president, Lisa Gilbert, called the bill a \"commonsense measure\" that addresses the significant challenges posed by social media to the mental health of young individuals. Gilbert highlighted the importance of protecting the identity and self-worth of children and teens, who are particularly vulnerable to the pressures of digital interaction.
Influencer Marketing Event \’Influence Days\’ To Kick Off At Casablanca In May
In today\'s Influencer Marketing news, Casablanca is set to host the inaugural \'Influence Days\' 2024 event at the Hilton Garden Inn on May 4. The influencer marketing agency event, a collaboration between Rich Media and Zey Agency, is poised to become a cornerstone for influencer marketing professionals. It will bring together over 80 influencers from a diverse range of sectors, including TikTok, YouTube, blogging, and even Moroccan cinema, providing a platform for all to share and learn. Among the notable participants scheduled to appear are Omar Lotfi, Karima Gouit, Farah El Fassi, Rachid Goudi, Anas Basbousi, Safaa Hbrikou, and Anas Hamdouchi. These influencers represent a broad spectrum of the Moroccan digital landscape and are expected to bring diverse insights into the evolving world of digital marketing, influencer marketing benefits and influencer collaboration. The Influencer Marketing Events 2024 is designed not only as a networking hub but also as an educational venue focusing on enhancing attendees\' digital project performance. A series of certified training sessions will feature international digital marketing, public relations, and coaching experts. These sessions are tailored to equip influencers with advanced tools and knowledge to amplify their impact on social media platforms. Key speakers include Salah Eddine Mimouni, CEO of Rich Media; Zineb Alaoui, an expert in influencer marketing and General Director at Zey Agency; and Youssef Zahzah, an international speaker and entrepreneur. Together, they will address current and emerging trends within the digital realm, spanning topics such as e-commerce, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and professional relationship-building in the context of influencer activities. ‘Influence Days’ is not just an event, it\'s a catalyst for fostering talent and innovation. It\'s a platform that will explore various facets of digital influence, reflecting the comprehensive role of influencers in today’s media landscape. We anticipate that it will serve as a pivotal annual platform for driving forward the influence culture within Morocco and beyond, inspiring new ideas and approaches. This initiative underscores the increasing significance of influencer marketing as a strategic component for brands aiming to connect effectively with their target audiences, mainly through social media channels.
Trump Held In Contempt 9 Times Over Truth Social Posts; Forced To Delete Them
Former President Donald Trump has deleted several social media posts after they were deemed to violate a gag order related to his ongoing criminal trial concerning alleged hush money payments. This Donald Trump news came shortly before Tuesday\'s court-imposed deadline of 2:15 p.m. Early in the day, Judge Juan Merchan, overseeing the Donald Trump hush money trial, fined Trump $9,000 and charged him for contempt of court, meaning he was cited nine times due to Trump\'s social media activity on platforms such as Truth Social and his campaign website. The posts involved critical comments about potential jurors and key witnesses, including Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels. In his ruling, Judge Merchan emphasized the severity of the situation, warning Trump that further disregard for court orders could lead to jail time. \"Defendant is at this moment warned that the Court will not tolerate continued willful violations of its lawful orders and that if necessary and appropriate under the circumstances, it will impose an incarceration punishment,” Merchan stated. The Donald Trump Truth Social posts primarily consisted of reposts from other figures online, targeting expected trial participants and labeling potential jurors as “liberal activists.” However, Judge Merchan found that one of the reposts, originally by attorney Michael Avenatti, which criticized Daniels and Cohen, did not breach the gag order and was allowed to remain online. Trump has publicly criticized the expanded gag order, arguing that it overly restricts his ability to communicate about the case. This gag order prohibits him from disparaging witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and the judge’s family about his trial. The case accuses the former president of making undisclosed payments to a porn actor to silence allegations of an affair before the 2016 election and subsequently recording the expenditure as a legal expense. As the trial progresses, legal experts and political observers closely monitor the proceedings, given their unprecedented nature and potential implications. The courtroom has seen intense legal arguments and high public interest, underscoring the historical significance of trying a former president in a criminal court. The outcome of this trial could have far-reaching effects on both the legal precedent and the political landscape, highlighting the delicate balance between legal accountability and political consequences in high-profile cases. The trial, marking the first criminal proceeding against a former U.S. president, resumed on Thursday and is expected to last approximately one month.
Met Gala’s TikTok Deal Questioned Amid App’s Ban; ‘Seven-figure Check’ Might ‘Politicize’ Event
Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour is facing backlash after sealing a multi-million dollar sponsorship deal with TikTok for the upcoming Met Gala 2024 scheduled for May 6, despite recent legislative actions threatening the app\'s operations in the United States. The controversy arose shortly after President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan bill aimed at either banning the Chinese-owned social media platform or compelling its sale by ByteDance, TikTok\'s parent company. The legislation addresses national security concerns over potential data access and surveillance by China. The Met Gala, an iconic fashion event hosted by Wintour and celebrities Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, and Chris Hemsworth, finds itself at the center of a PR dilemma. The event’s choice of Met Gala TikTok sponsor is problematic, especially as it coincides with a recent move by Universal Music Group to ban its artists from the app over licensing disputes. This decision affects several Met Gala 2024 guest list, including co-host Bad Bunny and regular attendee Rihanna, intensifying scrutiny on the sponsorship. A source from the Met Gala told Page Six that while the deal with TikTok was agreed upon well before the legislative developments, it now poses a significant public relations challenge. “What does Anna do? Does she uninvite TikTok a week before? She can’t. Anna is the total dictator of this event every year; let her talk her way out of this one!” the source commented, leaving us all wondering about the possible outcomes and Anna Wintour\'s Met Gala rules. TikTok’s CEO, Shou Chew, will join Wintour on the Met Gala red carpet 2024, emphasizing the app’s continued push against the legislative challenges. TikTok has argued that it poses no security threat, noting investments of $2 billion in trust and safety measures and assuring that U.S. user data is secured on Oracle-owned servers. Despite the legislative and public backlash, TikTok remains a significant player in the digital and cultural zeitgeist, with 170 million American users. The company has expressed unwavering confidence in overcoming the legal hurdles, stating it will \"keep fighting for your rights in the courts.\" This steadfastness reassures us of TikTok\'s commitment to its users. As the Met Gala approaches, the event, a symbol of traditional celebrity culture, is set to reflect the ongoing tension with the disruptive forces of new media, highlighted by its controversial sponsorship choice. The Met Gala, a crucial fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, recently renamed the Anna Wintour Costume Center in recognition of her contributions, carries the weight of this controversy.
Russian Influencer Claims Indian Passport Officer Gave His Number, Asked Her To Call Him
A video shared by a Russian influencer named Dinara on her Instagram account has ignited a storm of controversy and mixed reactions. In the video, Dinara recounts an unsettling encounter with an Indian passport officer who allegedly wrote his contact number on her boarding pass and requested that she call him the next time she visited India. She then asked netizens whether they deemed his behavior inappropriate. The responses to the video were diverse, with some users suggesting that it was only one side of the story and questioning whether the officer\'s actions constituted assault. One commenter advised Dinara to refrain from blowing the matter out of proportion. It encouraged her to file a police complaint, dismissing the incident as social media drama. This incident, sparked by a social media post on the Russian influencer\'s Instagram, has initiated discussions about appropriate conduct in professional settings and the importance of addressing such incidents through proper channels rather than solely on social media platforms. Dinara\'s video has not just sparked controversy, but it has also reignited important discussions surrounding cultural norms and appropriate boundaries in professional settings, particularly during international travel. While some viewers sympathized with Dinara\'s discomfort and emphasized the importance of respecting personal boundaries, others highlighted the potential for misinterpretation of gestures in cross-cultural interactions. Nonetheless, the incident has underscored the need for clear guidelines and training for airport staff to ensure that interactions with travelers are professional, respectful, and free from perceived misconduct. As the video continues to circulate on social media platforms, it has not only prompted calls for authorities to investigate the matter and address any potential misconduct by the passport control officer in the India Airport, but it has also sparked significant and necessary broader conversations about the experiences of women travelers and the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Dinara\'s brave decision to share her experience publicly has shed light on the challenges travelers face and the need for greater awareness and accountability in handling such situations by airport officials and authorities.
Pepsi Taps Influencers To Help Launch Its Rebranding, Stop Declining Sales
Amid declining beverage sales, PepsiCo is embarking on a global campaign to introduce its Pepsi rebranding to consumers. The company, known for brands like Mountain Dew and Gatorade, saw a 1% decrease in its drinks portfolio sales in 2023, particularly in North America and Europe, a report shared. However, with a proven track record of successful marketing strategies, PepsiCo is confident in its ability to reverse this trend and enhance household penetration, leveraging its cultural connections to drive its marketing efforts for Pepsi rebranding 2024. PepsiCo\'s VP of global brand marketing, Erica Melis, emphasized the company\'s historical role as a \'believer and driver of culture.\' Beyond traditional associations with live music, video and soccer, PepsiCo is embracing innovative approaches that will captivate younger audiences. These include drone installations in Dubai, towering CG cans in London, and experiential marketing with creator partnerships, all of which are set to revolutionize the marketing landscape. Like other significant advertisers, PepsiCo is refocusing on brand-building activities amidst a crowded advertising landscape. With a diverse media strategy tailored to different markets, PepsiCo prioritizes linear TV spend, paid social, and creator partnerships via Pepsi Influencer marketing efforts. Melis highlighted the importance of \"retailtainment,\" where PepsiCo aims to disrupt stores with unique and engaging experiences. In the UK, PepsiCo transformed a Manchester corner shop into a Pepsi MAX-branded nightspot, showcasing live DJ sets and nostalgic candy. Such activations, landmark installations, and soccer sponsorships are part of PepsiCo\'s ongoing effort to stay culturally relevant. PepsiCo\'s influencer marketing and marketing media budget, up by 20% between 2018 and 2023, underscores its commitment to these initiatives. Melis emphasized the alignment between marketing and business goals, citing KPIs such as purchase intent and brand love to justify investments. According to Evan Horowitz of the agency Movers+Shakers, building cultural relevance is crucial for brands like PepsiCo to connect with younger consumers and foster emotional connections. Melis emphasized the importance of human-centric content grounded in solving consumer problems to drive brand equity and long-term business performance. As PepsiCo prepares for its next annual general meeting, its increased marketing spend and global rebranding campaign will likely be in the spotlight. Focusing on driving cultural relevance and fostering emotional connections with consumers, PepsiCo aims to demonstrate the impact of its marketing investments on brand equity and long-term business performance. PepsiCo seeks to maintain its iconic brand status and drive growth in an evolving market landscape by aligning marketing strategies with consumer preferences and leveraging innovative approaches to engage audiences.
Saudi Arabia Fitness Influencer Gets 11-Year Sentence For Her ‘Choice Of Clothing’: Amnesty International
Saudi Arabia has confirmed in a letter to the United Nations that a Saudi Arabian female influencer who is popular online received an 11-year prison sentence over unspecified \"terrorism offenses.\" The letter, dated Jan. 25 and sent to the U.N.\'s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, did not specify the nature of the alleged offenses. While the kingdom asserted that the case was unrelated to the instructor\'s online presence, human rights activists argue that the conviction of Manahel al-Otaibi highlights the limitations on freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. According to Amnesty International and ALQST, a London-based human rights group, al-Otaibi\'s charges were related to her choice of clothing and expression of her views online, including advocacy for the end of Saudi Arabia\'s male guardianship system and liberal dress codes for women. The joint statement issued by the human rights organizations emphasized that Manahel al-Otaibi\'s Instagram posts and other social media platforms such as Twitter, and Snapchat included advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and the abolition of Saudi Arabia\'s male guardianship laws. She has been detained since November 2022, while her sister Fouz faced similar charges and fled Saudi Arabia. The kingdom\'s letter to the U.N. emphasized that exercising and defending rights are not crimes under Saudi law. However, it condemned attempts to justify terrorist actions by describing them as exercising or protecting rights. The case of al-Otaibi underscores ongoing concerns about human rights and freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia, despite recent reforms that have relaxed some social restrictions, including allowing women to drive since 2018. The imprisonment of the Saudi Arabian influencer has drawn international attention and raised concerns about the protection of human rights in Saudi Arabia. Critics argue that her case exemplifies the broader pattern of repression against individuals who express dissenting views or advocate for social change in the kingdom. The Saudi government\'s response, while asserting the legality of exercising and defending rights, has been met with skepticism from human rights organizations, which continue to call for transparency and accountability in cases of alleged rights abuses. Additionally, the Saudi Arabian influencer scandal sheds light on the challenges faced by women activists and advocates in Saudi Arabia. Despite some reforms aimed at improving women\'s rights, such as lifting the ban on driving, women who speak out against the government or challenge societal norms still risk severe repercussions, including imprisonment. The case of al-Otaibi underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need for more excellent protection of women\'s rights in the kingdom. As international pressure mounts on Saudi Arabia to address these issues, the fate of individuals like al-Otaibi remains a focal point in the global debate over human rights and freedom of expression.
How To Get Free Upgrades On Flights And The Best Time To Ask? Travel Influencer Reveals The Answers
Travel influencer @travelingoutofsty has shared valuable advice on how to get free upgrades on flights. In a viral TikTok video with 1.8 million views, the user revealed that being bumped off an overbooked flight could lead to a first-class seat. The video features a man speaking into the camera at an airport, explaining that if passengers are offered compensation for taking a later flight due to overbooking, they can also ask for a first-class upgrade - yes, this is one of the best time to upgrade flight. He shares a personal experience where he was bumped off a flight and was offered a first-class seat as compensation. This practice, known as \"bumping\" or \"denied boarding,\" occurs when there are more passengers booked than available seats, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). While bumping passengers is not illegal, airlines oversell flights to account for potential no-shows, as explained by the DOT. It\'s important to note that the compensation offered for being bumped off a flight may vary depending on the airline and the specific circumstances. While most flights proceed smoothly, occasional bumps occur due to over-sales practices. It\'s advisable to familiarize yourself with the airline\'s policies and your rights as a passenger to ensure you\'re fully informed. This knowledge actually is a good starting point on how to get free flight upgrades. The advice shared by @travelingoutofsty offers travelers the thrilling potential to turn a frustrating situation into a delightful surprise by securing an unexpected upgrade. As the video gains traction on social media, it provides exciting insights for travelers looking to enhance their flying experience without incurring additional costs. Travelingoutofsty, is one of the travel influencers to follow, so the tip has resonated with those eager to maximize their flying experience. The prospect of turning an inconvenience like being bumped off a flight into an opportunity for a first-class upgrade is appealing to many. As the video continues to gain traction and reach a wider audience, it serves as a practical and potentially cost-saving strategy for travelers to consider when faced with overbooked flights. However, travelers must approach the situation with confidence and manage their expectations. While requesting a first-class upgrade in exchange for being bumped off a flight is possible, it\'s not guaranteed. Airlines may have specific policies and procedures for handling overbooked flights, and the availability of upgrades can vary depending on various factors, including the airline\'s policies, the route, and the number of passengers affected. Therefore, travelers should be prepared to weigh their options carefully and consider the potential outcomes before making any requests or decisions at the airport.