What influencers come to mind?
Is itTikTokerCharli DAmelio or her sister Dixie?
Tinx or Alix Earle?
Or maybe a YouTuber like Emma Chamberlain, Nikkie Tutorials, Jackie Aina, James Charles, or Mr. An Instagram fashion girlie like Aimee Song or workout queen Kayla Itsines?
Or even the year before that.
We are in a drought of famous influencers, and it may be here to stay.
Maybe they were family vloggers, or prank YouTubers like the Paul brothers, or makeup artists or fashionistas.
Then, thered be a tipping point.
Remember in 2021, when influencers like Chamberlain and Rae attended the Met Gala and everyone freaked out?
And even if Anna Wintour wanted to invite a fresh crop of internet talent, who would she choose?
Can you name anyone in the past year who has ascended in a major way?
Thats not just my opinion.
Id say shes exceeded well past the title of influencer to global celebrity status, she says.
This doesnt mean that people arent doing well on social media.
The problem is thattoo manypeople are doing well on social media.
Sophie gives the example ofTube Girla.k.a.
Others trying to make it are finding it harder than it seems.
In my first month, I got, like 5,000 followers, influencer hopeful Maycie Tilley posted onTikTokin March.
And since then, its been kind of… She used hand motions to depict a plane crashing.
Which is fine, but when youre posting every single day its hard.
But its unclear whether or not theyre actually helpful to make it big.
(Has anyone using them become the next Earle?
Doesnt seem like it.)
But why have the mega-famous influencers stopped producing heirs?
There are a few theories.
Then theres the fact that platforms like TikTok tend to silo users based on interests.
Sophie thinks the maturation of internet audiences also has played a role.
Without an engaged audience, theres no route to stardom.
Thats not to say that Sophie thinks the internet celebrity is dead.
They may just have to work a little harder for it.
She advises anyone looking to become the next Addison or Alix to play the long game.
Influencing takes time and dedication, she says.
Dont get discouraged if success doesnt happen overnight.
Focus on building deep connections with your audience sustainably and slowly, over fleeting viral moments.
