In the domain of influential creators, their combined followers reach an astounding 991 million, accumulating an estimated fortune of $311.5 million. Over the past decade, heightened competition among creators, influencers, streamers, and vloggers has been fueled by the widespread use of social media.
These social media personalities wield significant influence in the entertainment and advertising industries, engaging millions and shaping public opinion. Leveraging their content for profitability, some have become millionaires, expanding from individual posts to strategic brand partnerships.
Forbes’ Top Creators 2023 list, featuring 10 influential figures with a collective 2.6 billion followers, highlights their earnings of approximately $700 million, a notable increase from the previous year. This underscores the growing impact of creator marketing, with brands projected to spend around $21 billion in 2023, a significant rise from $1.6 billion seven years ago.
List of Top 10 Creators 2023 by Forbes
In 2023, Mr. Beast secures the coveted title of top creator, standing tall among the world’s most distinguished influencers. Collectively, these creators boast a massive following of 991 million and have amassed an estimated fortune of $311.5 million. As the foremost creator of the year, Mr. Beast’s influence is unparalleled.
Here’s a look at the top ten creators globally, each leaving an enduring impact on the social media scene:
1. Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast)
With earnings reaching $82 million, MrBeast boasts a colossal fan base of 312 million followers, surpassing the population of the United States. Known off-screen as Jimmy Donaldson, this YouTube sensation has gained fame through high-production videos and daring stunts, like enduring 50 hours in Antarctica and constructing a Wonka chocolate factory. Leveraging his immense influence, MrBeast has not only accumulated digital ad dollars but also established real-world ventures, including Feastables snack bars, the MrBeast Burgers restaurant chain, and a sprawling merchandise line.
2. Olajide Olatunji (KSI)
Earning an impressive $24 million with a massive following of 112 million, KSI, also known as Olajide Olatunji, started as a FIFA game reactor on YouTube in 2009, gaining fame for his unique humor. Evolving from a comedian to a rapper and boxer, KSI released two singles in 2023 and secured a multiyear distribution deal for his promotional company, Misfits Boxing. He’s a key figure for Prime Hydration, the official drink for FC Barcelona, UFC, and Arsenal. Despite controversies, including boxing conduct and controversial content, KSI consistently turns scandals into online and in-ring success.
3. Jake Paul
Jake Paul, the former Vine star turned boxer, is no stranger to controversy. Despite facing allegations of misconduct and an SEC charge, his YouTube stunts, including bizarre challenges and surprise tattoos, have garnered a massive following of 66 million. With an entrepreneurial score of 4, Paul remains one of the highest-paid athletes, securing deals like a sponsorship with Celsius and founding the sports betting app “Betr,” which raised $50 million in a Series A round. His ventures also include signing an MMA contract for a new pay-per-view division, showcasing his ability to orchestrate lucrative spectacles.
4. Rhett & Link
With earnings of $35 million, Rhett & Link, childhood friends turned YouTubers, boast 51 million followers and an average engagement of 0.85%. Former engineers, they co-founded Mythical, an entertainment company in Burbank, California. Mythical produces popular YouTube series, including Good Mythical Morning and Mythical Kitchen, catering to their 18 million subscribers. The duo extends their influence through podcasts, live events, and investments via the Creator Accelerator fund, supporting emerging creators.
5. Charli D’Amelio
6. Logan Paul
Logan Paul, with earnings of $21 million and a massive following of 74 million, initially gained fame on Vine. Transitioning to YouTube, he created content ranging from vlogs to stunts, such as giving away iPhones and engaging in celebrity fights. Despite facing challenges due to controversial videos, including one in Japan’s “suicide forest,” Paul has adapted by venturing into wrestling. He recently exited his WWE deal and remains active in promotions like Prime Hydration. Alongside YouTuber KSI, he co-hosts the podcast Impaulsive, addressing ongoing controversies.
7. Elliot Tebele (F*ckJerry)
With earnings reaching $30 million and a substantial 17 million followers, Elliot Tebele, the original meme king, is the mastermind behind the FJerryLLC social media empire. FJerryLLC, encompassing accounts like F*ckJerry, BeigeCardigan, DudeWithSign, and JerryNews, amasses a whopping 40 million followers. Tebele’s lucrative ventures extend to a board game empire, featuring the popular game “What Do You Meme,” available at major retailers. Additionally, he’s ventured into the spirits industry with the successful tequila brand Jaja.
8. Emma Chamberlain
Earning $20 million with 28 million followers and an average engagement of 6.25%, Emma Chamberlain’s journey from filming YouTube videos at her mother’s house to building a lifestyle empire is remarkable. She dropped out of high school, secured a high fashion deal with Louis Vuitton, and formed lucrative partnerships with major brands like Cartier, Lancome, Levi’s, Aritzia, and Canon. Chamberlain’s influence extends to her beverage company, Chamberlain Coffee, available at Walmart and Sprouts, and her podcast, “Anything Goes,” which landed an exclusive Spotify video deal in February.
9. Matt Rife
With a whopping 22 million followers and an impressive engagement rate of 10.7%, Rife, a stand-up comedian, leverages his social media stardom to pack live shows. Initially performing at small clubs for a decade, Rife skyrocketed to TikTok fame with a viral clip, amassing 17 million followers in the past year. Remarkably, he sold over 750,000 tickets for his international tour and has a Netflix stand-up special, “Natural Selection,” set to stream later this year.
10. Brent Rivera
Brent Rivera, with 96 million followers and an impressive 11.25% average engagement, excels across major social media platforms—Vine, YouTube, and TikTok. Beyond his comedic content, often featuring his sister Lexi, the 25-year-old entrepreneur collaborates with major brands such as Starbucks, Xbox, and Prada. A Streamy Award-winner, Rivera also runs Amp Studios, a media company supporting emerging creators and brands since its launch in 2017.
Also Read: Indian-Origin Women Business Leaders Shine On Forbes’ 2023 Richest Self-Made Women List
