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((Short description|Someone famous because of the Internet))
((Redirect|Key opinion leader|the sociological phenomenon|Opinion leadership))
((Redirect|Influencer|the song|Influencer (song)|the 2022 horror film|Influencer (2022 film)))
((Split|Influencer|discuss=Talk:Internet celebrity#Splitting article|date=March 2024))
((Section move from|1=Influencer|section=Influencers and marketing networks|discuss=Talk:Internet celebrity#Merging to Influencer history|date=March 2024))
[[File:Khaby Lame 2021.jpg|alt=Khaby Lame, an Internet celebrity, with a Tik Tok background.|thumb|Internet celebrity [[Khaby Lame]] in 2021]]
((Use mdy dates|date=October 2023))
((pp-pc|small=yes))

An '''internet celebrity''' (also referred to as a '''social media influencer''', '''social media personality''', '''internet personality''', '''online personality''', or '''influencer''') is an individual who has acquired or developed their fame and [[notability]] on the [[Internet]]. The growing popularity of [[social media]] provides a means for people to reach a large, global audience. Internet celebrities are often found on large online platforms such as [[YouTube]], [[Instagram]], and [[TikTok]],<ref>((Cite web|title=Most used social media 2021|url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/|access-date=2021-08-23|website=Statista|language=en|archive-date=2019-09-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190917142233/https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/|url-status=live))</ref> which primarily rely on [[user-generated content]].

Certain internet celebrities may function as [[lifestyle guru]]s promoting a particular [[Lifestyle (sociology)|lifestyle]] or [[Attitude (psychology)|attitude]]. In this capacity they act as key amplifiers of trends across various genres including fashion, cooking, technology, travel, video games, movies, [[esports]], politics, music, sports, and entertainment.<ref>((Cite journal|last1=Schouten|first1=Alexander P.|last2=Janssen|first2=Loes|last3=Verspaget|first3=Maegan|title=Celebrity vs. Influencer endorsements in advertising: the role of identification, credibility, and Product-Endorser fit|journal=International Journal of Advertising|issue=2|pages=258–281|doi=10.1080/02650487.2019.1634898|issn=0265-0487|year=2020|volume=39|s2cid=198608820|doi-access=free))</ref> As part of [[influencer marketing]], companies and organizations may enlist internet celebrities to advertise their products to their fan base and followers on their respective platforms.

== History ==
In 1991 the [[Internet]] and the [[World Wide Web]] became widely available, leading to the creation of numerous websites dedicated to shared interests. These forums allowed users to seek advice and help from experienced individuals in their field, increasing the availability of information beyond mainstream print media and corporate [[Website|websites]].<ref name="wired guide">((cite magazine | url = https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-an-influencer/ | title = The WIRED Guide to Influencers | first = Paris | last = Martinue | date = December 6, 2019 | access-date = December 6, 2019 | magazine = [[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] | archive-date = September 6, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220906181916/https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-an-influencer/ | url-status = live ))</ref> Dedicated social media platforms emerged from these developments, providing users with the ability to create profiles and connect with others. [[SixDegrees.com]] pioneered this concept in 1997.<ref name=":2">((Cite web|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/then-and-now-a-history-of-social-networking-sites/2/|title=Then and now: a history of social networking sites|website=[[CBS News]]|date=July 6, 2011 |access-date=2019-04-09|archive-date=2018-07-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723003553/https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/then-and-now-a-history-of-social-networking-sites/2/|url-status=live))</ref> Additionally, websites supporting [[blogging]] emerged around the same time, allowing users to publish long-form articles and stories.<ref name="wired guide"/> Since then forums, social media and blogging have transformed into integral components of communication, social interaction, business and journalism. Popular social media platforms include [[Facebook]], [[Instagram]], [[YouTube]], [[Reddit]], [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]], [[Snapchat]], [[TikTok]], [[Twitter]], [[Discord]], [[Viber]], [[WeChat]], and [[WhatsApp]].<ref name=":3">((Cite web|url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/|title=Most popular social networks worldwide as of April 2019, ranked by number of active users (in millions)|date=2018-06-20|website=The Verge|access-date=2019-04-09|archive-date=2019-09-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190917142233/https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/|url-status=live))</ref> 

The origins of online influencing can be traced back to the emergence of digital blogs and platforms in the early 2000s. Nevertheless recent studies demonstrate that Instagram, an application with more than one billion users, harbors the majority of the influencer demographic.<ref>((Cite web |date=2018-01-17 |title=A Comprehensive Guide to Instagram Influencer Marketing ((!)) Social Media Marketing |url=https://www.convinceandconvert.com/social-media-strategy/guide-to-instagram-influencer-marketing-2/ |access-date=2020-11-09 |website=Content Marketing Consulting and Social Media Strategy |language=en-US |archive-date=2020-11-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108160929/https://www.convinceandconvert.com/social-media-strategy/guide-to-instagram-influencer-marketing-2/ |url-status=live ))</ref> These individuals are sometimes referred to as "Instagrammers" or "Instafamous." A crucial aspect of influencing lies in their association with sponsors. The 2015 debut of Vamp, a company that links influencers with sponsorships, transformed the landscape of influencing.<ref>((Cite journal |last1=Chen |first1=Li |last2=Yan |first2=Yajie |last3=Smith |first3=Andrew N. |date=2022-07-02 |title=What drives digital engagement with sponsored videos? An investigation of video influencers' authenticity management strategies |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/s11747-022-00887-2 |journal=Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science |volume=51 |pages=198–221 |language=en |doi=10.1007/s11747-022-00887-2 |s2cid=250251697 |issn=1552-7824 |access-date=2022-08-26 |archive-date=2023-01-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230122154910/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11747-022-00887-2 |url-status=live ))</ref><ref>((Cite web |title=[Timeline] A Brief History of Influencers |url=https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/timeline-a-brief-history-of-influencers/554377/ |access-date=2022-08-26 |website=Social Media Today |language=en-US |archive-date=2022-08-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826024138/https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/timeline-a-brief-history-of-influencers/554377/ |url-status=live ))</ref>

There is much debate about whether social media influencers can be considered celebrities, as their path to fame is often less traditional and arguably easier. Melody Nouri<ref>((Cite journal |last=Nouri |first=Melody |date=2018-09-12 |title=The Power of Influence: Traditional Celebrity vs Social Media Influencer |url=https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/engl_176/32 |journal=Pop Culture Intersections |access-date=2020-08-23 |archive-date=2020-08-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806075023/https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/engl_176/32/ |url-status=live ))</ref> addresses the differences between the two types in her article "The Power of Influence: Traditional Celebrities VS Social Media Influencer".<ref>((cite journal |last1=Nouri |first1=Melody |title=The Power of Influence: Traditional Celebrity vs Social Media Influencer |journal=Pop Culture Intersections |date=12 September 2018 |url=https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/engl_176/32/ |access-date=23 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806075023/https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/engl_176/32/ |url-status=live ))</ref> Nouri asserts that social media platforms have a greater negative impact on young, impressionable audiences compared to traditional media like magazines, billboards, advertisements, and tabloids featuring celebrities. Online it is thought to be simpler to manipulate an image and lifestyle in such a way that viewers are more susceptible to believing it.

=== Influencers and marketing networks ===
The early 2000s showed corporate endeavors to leverage the internet for influence, with some companies participating in forums for promotions or providing [[bloggers]] with complimentary products in return for favorable reviews. A few of these practices were viewed as unethical for taking advantage of the labor of young individuals without providing remuneration.<ref name="wired guide"/> The Blogstar Network was established in 2004 by Ted Murphy of MindComet. Bloggers were encouraged to join an email list and receive remunerated offers from corporations in exchange for creating specific posts. For instance, bloggers were compensated for writing reviews of fast-food meals on their blogs. Blogstar is widely regarded as the first influencer marketing network.<ref name="wired guide" /> Murphy succeeded Blogstar with PayPerPost, which was introduced in 2006. This platform compensated significant posters on prominent forums and social media platforms for every post made about a corporate product. Payment rates were determined by the influencer's status.<ref name="wired guide" /> Though very popular, PayPerPost, received a great deal of criticism as these influencers were not required to disclose their involvement with PayPerPost as traditional journalism would have.<ref>((cite web | url = http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_28/b3992034.htm | title = Polluting The Blogosphere | first= Jon  |last = Fine | date = July 10, 2006 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060806160406/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_28/b3992034.htm | archive-date = August 6, 2006 ))</ref> With the success of PayPerPost, the public became aware that there was a drive for corporate interests to influence what some people were posting to these sites.<ref name="wired guide" /> The platform also incentivized other firms to establish comparable programs. Despite concerns, marketing networks with influencers continued to grow throughout the 2000s and into the 2010s. The influencer marketing industry is expected to be worth up to $15 billion by 2022, up from as much as $8 billion in 2019, according to estimates from Business Insider Intelligence, which are based on Mediakix data.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/influencer-marketing-report|title=Influencer Marketing: State of the social media influencer market in 2020|last=Schomer|first=Audrey|website=Business Insider|access-date=2020-03-13|archive-date=2021-08-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805081226/https://www.businessinsider.com/influencer-marketing-report|url-status=live))</ref> Evan Asano, the Former CEO and founder of the agency Mediakix, previously spoke with [[Business Insider]] and said he believed influencer marketing on Instagram would continue to grow despite likes being hidden.<ref>((Cite web |title=Instagram is testing hiding 'likes' and some influencers are angry. Industry execs told us how the change will affect their business. |url=https://www.businessinsider.in/advertising/news/instagram-is-testing-hiding-likes-and-some-influencers-are-angry-industry-execs-told-us-how-the-change-will-affect-their-business-/articleshow/72014951.cms |access-date=2023-08-30 |website=Business Insider))</ref>

By the 2010s, the term "influencer" described digital content creators with a large following, distinctive brand persona, and a patterned relationship with commercial sponsors.<ref>((Cite book|chapter-url = https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/9781119429128.iegmc219|doi = 10.1002/9781119429128.iegmc219|chapter = Social Media Influencers|title = The International Encyclopedia of Gender, Media, and Communication|year = 2020|last1 = Duffy|first1 = Brooke Erin|pages = 1–4|isbn = 9781119429104|s2cid = 225776342|access-date = 2022-04-02|archive-date = 2022-04-02|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220402130508/https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/9781119429128.iegmc219|url-status = live))</ref> Consumers often mistakenly view celebrities as reliable, leading to trust and confidence in the products being promoted.<ref name=":02">((Cite journal|date=2018-09-01|title=Framing emerging behaviors influenced by internet celebrity|journal=Kasetsart Journal of Social Sciences|language=en|volume=39|issue=3|pages=550–555|doi=10.1016/j.kjss.2018.06.014|issn=2452-3151|last1=Juntiwasarakij|first1=Suwan|s2cid=158069963|doi-access=free))</ref> A 2001 study from [[Rutgers University]] discovered that individuals were using "internet forums as influential sources of consumer information." The study proposes that consumers preferred internet forums and social media when making purchasing decisions over conventional advertising and print sources. An influencer's personality strongly impacts their audience's purchasing decision, with those who engage with their audience being more persuasive in encouraging product purchases. Companies today place great importance on feedback and comments received through social media platforms as consumers trust other consumers. Reviews are often relied on to persuade consumers to make a purchase, highlighting the impact of a negative review on a business's revenue.<ref>((cite journal | url = https://vdocuments.mx/embed/v1/internet-forums-as-influential-sources-of-consumer-information.html | title = Internet Forums As Influential Sources Of Consumer Information | first1 = Barbara | last1 = Bickart | first2 = Robert M. | last2 = Schindler | date = 2001 | journal = Journal of Interactive Marketing | volume = 15 | issue = 3 | pages = 31–40 | doi = 10.1002/dir.1014 | s2cid = 168114871 | access-date = 2019-12-06 | archive-date = 2019-12-06 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191206163122/https://vdocuments.mx/embed/v1/internet-forums-as-influential-sources-of-consumer-information.html | url-status = live ))</ref> A typical method of marketing between the influencer and the audience is "[[B2C|B2C marketing]]". B2C marketing, meaning Business to Consumer marketing, entails the strategies which a business would undertake to promote themselves and their services directly to their target audiences. This is typically through advertising and creating content through the influencer themselves. The intention is that their followers, who relate or look up to certain influencers, will be more inclined to purchase an item because their favorite "Internet celebrity" recommended it.<ref>((cite web |url=https://www.thebalancesmb.com/b2b-vs-b2c-marketing-2295828 |title=Understanding the Differences Between B2B and B2C Marketing |date=2020-12-26 |access-date=2021-04-01 |last=Lake |first=Laura |work=the balance small business |archive-date=2021-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225075652/https://www.thebalancesmb.com/b2b-vs-b2c-marketing-2295828 |url-status=live ))</ref> Internet celebrities typically promote a lifestyle of beauty and luxury fashion and foster consumer–brand relationships, while selling their own lines of merchandise.<ref name=":4">((Cite journal|last1=Britt|first1=Rebecca K.|last2=Hayes|first2=Jameson L.|last3=Britt|first3=Brian C.|last4=Park|first4=Haseon|date=2020-05-03|title=Too Big to Sell? A Computational Analysis of Network and Content Characteristics among Mega and Micro Beauty and Fashion Social Media Influencers|journal=Journal of Interactive Advertising|language=en|volume=20|issue=2|pages=111–118|doi=10.1080/15252019.2020.1763873|s2cid=219433187|issn=1525-2019|doi-access=free))</ref>

"Digital Branding: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to Strategy, Tactics, Tools, and Metrics" by David Rowles explains the methods online influencers employ to increase their audience and brand visibility. Digital branding encompasses all online experiences and necessitates value provision."<ref>((cite book |last1=Rowels |first1=David |title=Digital Branding: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Strategy, Tactics and Measurement |date=2014 |publisher=Kogan Page))</ref> It is suggested that users are already familiar with the lives of their influencers as devoted followers. This makes it easy for them to promote companies as their followers feel as though they know the celebrities they follow, despite the reality being different.

=== Self-branding ===
Self-branding, also known as [[personal branding]], describes the development of a public image for commercial gain or social or cultural capital.<ref>((Cite journal|last1=Khamis|first1=Susie|last2=Ang|first2=Lawrence|last3=Welling|first3=Raymond|date=2017-04-03|title=Self-branding, 'micro-celebrity' and the rise of Social Media Influencers|journal=Celebrity Studies|volume=8|issue=2|pages=191–208|doi=10.1080/19392397.2016.1218292|issn=1939-2397|hdl=10453/98736|s2cid=59289264|hdl-access=free))</ref> The rise of social media has been exploited by individuals seeking personal fame and product sales. Platforms such as [[Instagram]], [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]], [[Snapchat]], [[VSCO]], and [[TikTok]], are the most common social media outlets on which online influencers attempt to build a following. Fame can be attained through different avenues and media forms, including art, humor, modeling, and [[Podcast|podcasts]]. Marketing experts have concluded that anyone can build websites easily without any technical knowledge or complex coding languages. They can upload text, pictures, and videos instantly from personal computers or phones. With technological barriers diminishing, the web has become the ideal platform for personal branding.<ref>((Cite journal|title=Online Personal Branding: Processes, Challenges, and Implications|issue=1|pages=37–50|journal=Journal of Interactive Marketing|volume=25|doi=10.1016/j.intmar.2010.09.002|date=February 2011|last1=Labrecque|first1=Lauren I.|last2=Markos|first2=Ereni|last3=Milne|first3=George R.|hdl=20.500.12010/9095|s2cid=167381412|hdl-access=free))</ref>

== Types ==
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Depending on their rise to fame, internet celebrities may reach their audiences in different ways. Some people write journals or blogs, some make YouTube or TikTok videos, others post frequently on Instagram or Twitter (X). The Internet has made fame accessible to and attainable for the general public.<ref>((Cite journal |last=Gamson |first=Joshua |date=October 2011 |title=The Unwatched Life Is Not Worth Living: The Elevation of the Ordinary in Celebrity Culture |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1632/pmla.2011.126.4.1061 |journal=Publications of the Modern Language Association of America |volume=126 |issue=4 |pages=1061–1069 |doi=10.1632/pmla.2011.126.4.1061 |s2cid=59355773 |issn=0030-8129))</ref>

In some cases, people might rise to fame through a single [[Viral phenomenon|viral event]] or [[viral video]], and become an [[Internet meme]]. For example, [[Zach Anner]], a comedian from [[Austin, Texas]], gained worldwide attention after submitting a video to [[Oprah Winfrey]]'s "Search for the Next TV Star" competition.<ref name="The Daily Texan">((cite web | url = http://www.dailytexanonline.com/2010/06/16/zach-anner-flattens-next-oprah-competition | title = Zach Anner flattens 'Next Oprah' competition | access-date = 2010-07-05 | last = Rich | first = Gerald | date = June 16, 2010 | work = [[The Daily Texan]] | publisher = [[The University of Texas at Austin]] | archive-date = 2013-09-26 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130926231628/http://www.dailytexanonline.com/2010/06/16/zach-anner-flattens-next-oprah-competition | url-status = live ))</ref> Viral videos from internet celebrities could entail a funny event happening in the moment, a popular new dance, or even a post on Twitter, such as the "Alex from Target" tweet in 2014.<ref>((Cite news|last=Bilton|first=Nick|date=2014-11-12|title=Alex From Target: The Other Side of Fame (Published 2014)|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/13/style/alex-from-target-the-other-side-of-fame.html|access-date=2020-11-17|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=2020-11-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201118231030/https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/13/style/alex-from-target-the-other-side-of-fame.html|url-status=live))</ref><ref>((Cite journal|last1=Miltner|first1=Kate M.|last2=Highfield|first2=Tim|date=July 2017|title=Never Gonna GIF You Up: Analyzing the Cultural Significance of the Animated GIF|journal=Social Media + Society|language=en|volume=3|issue=3|pages=205630511772522|doi=10.1177/2056305117725223|s2cid=64608249|issn=2056-3051|doi-access=free|hdl=20.500.11820/f0841c5d-45bc-40e5-b4ba-f89e8c5fd847|hdl-access=free))</ref>

Many other people build their followings slowly over time, sharing their daily life and passions with people. Families such as the LaBrant Family and The Bucket List Family share their children, life experiences, and travels with their followers. Individuals such as [[MrBeast]] and [[David Dobrik]] post content about their lifestyle and host challenges and giveaways.

Although multiple studies offer slightly differing views, internet celebrities, or influencers, can be broken into five or six different categories: Nano, Micro, Mid-tier, Macro, Mega, and Celebrity.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.cmswire.com/digital-marketing/social-media-influencers-mega-macro-micro-or-nano/|title=Social Media Influencers: Mega, Macro, Micro or Nano|website=CMSWire.com|language=en|access-date=2020-03-13|archive-date=2020-03-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200318160104/https://www.cmswire.com/digital-marketing/social-media-influencers-mega-macro-micro-or-nano/|url-status=live))</ref><ref>((Cite book |last=Amith Prabhu |first=Sujith Patil |title=The Pursuit Of Reputation |publisher=Westland Business |year=2023 |isbn=9789357768399 |edition=1st |location=New Delhi |pages=68 |language=English))</ref>

* Nano influencers: 1,000 – 10,000 followers
* Micro influencers: 10,000 – 50,000 followers
* Mid-tier influencers: 50,000 – 500,000 followers
* Macro influencers: 500,000 – 1,000,000 followers
* Mega influencers: 1,000,000 – 5,000,000 followers
* Celebrities: Above 5,000,000 followers<ref>((Cite book|title=The 2020 Influencer Marketing Playbook|publisher=Linqia, Inc.|year=2019|pages=8))</ref>

===YouTubers and vloggers===
((Further|YouTuber|Vlog))
[[File:PewDiePie_at_PAX_2015_crop.jpg|200px|link=https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/86/PewDiePie_at_PAX_2015_crop.jpg|thumb|[[PewDiePie]] is an internet celebrity and the fourth most subscribed individual [[YouTuber]]. Overall, he has the eighth most subscribed [[YouTube]] channel.]]
YouTube has risen as one of the biggest platforms for launching internet celebrities. YouTube creators (known as [[YouTuber]]s), regardless of the genres or types of videos they make, have created an industry that can generate revenue from video views and online popularity. For example, Swedish internet celebrity [[PewDiePie]] uploads [[Video game|gaming]] and comedy videos on YouTube. ((As of|2019|9|df=)), he has around 100 million subscribers and is the second most-subscribed non-corporation YouTuber.

Every minute, 300 hours of videos are uploaded to YouTube, and 5 billion videos are watched every day.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://videonitch.com/2017/12/13/36-mind-blowing-youtube-facts-figures-statistics-2017-re-post/|title=36 Mind Blowing YouTube Facts, Figures and Statistics – 2017 (re-post)|date=2017-12-13|website=Videonitch|access-date=2019-04-06|archive-date=2020-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022034534/http://videonitch.com/2017/12/13/36-mind-blowing-youtube-facts-figures-statistics-2017-re-post/|url-status=dead))</ref> In August 2014, [[Variety (magazine)|''Variety'']] wrote that YouTubers are more popular than mainstream celebrities among U.S. teens.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2014/digital/news/survey-youtube-stars-more-popular-than-mainstream-celebs-among-u-s-teens-1201275245/|title=YouTube Stars More Popular Than Mainstream Celebs Among U.S. Teens|date=2014-08-05|website=Variety|access-date=2019-05-19|archive-date=2015-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207065234/http://variety.com/2014/digital/news/survey-youtube-stars-more-popular-than-mainstream-celebs-among-u-s-teens-1201275245/|url-status=live))</ref> Advertisers, in an effort to reach teenagers and millennials who do not watch regular television and movies, have started contacting YouTubers and other internet celebrities.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/03/12/the-end-of-hollywood-and-the-rise-of-social-media-celebrities/|title=The end of Hollywood and the rise of social media celebrities|date=2015-03-13|website=VentureBeat|access-date=2019-03-29|archive-date=2020-12-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204225627/https://venturebeat.com/2015/03/12/the-end-of-hollywood-and-the-rise-of-social-media-celebrities/|url-status=live))</ref>

YouTube's [[AdSense]] program enables creators to earn money from advertisements. AdSense has certain requirements—a YouTuber must have more than 1,000 subscribers, live in an eligible country, and have more than 4,000 hours of watch time within a year to be eligible.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://youtube-creators.googleblog.com/2018/01/additional-changes-to-youtube-partner.html|title=Additional Changes to the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) to Better Protect Creators|website=YouTube Creator Blog|access-date=2019-04-10|archive-date=2019-04-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407163921/https://youtube-creators.googleblog.com/2018/01/additional-changes-to-youtube-partner.html|url-status=live))</ref>

=== Micro-celebrities ===
A micro-celebrity, also known as a micro-influencer, is a person famous within a niche group of users on a social media platform. Micro-celebrities often present themselves as public figures.<ref>((Cite journal|date=2018-05-05|title=Instagram micro-celebrities.|url=https://tulsacommunitycollege-library.on.worldcat.org/oclc/7566787792|journal=Marketing Weekly News|pages=149|issn=1944-2424|access-date=2019-03-25|archive-date=2019-03-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325044435/https://tulsacommunitycollege-library.on.worldcat.org/oclc/7566787792|url-status=live))</ref> The concept of the micro-celebrity was originally developed by Theresa Senft and P. A. Poitier in their 2008 book, ''Camgirls: Celebrity and Community in the Age of Social Networks''.<ref>((Cite book|url=https://www.peterlang.com/view/title/57745|title=Camgirls|last=Senft|first=Theresa M.|date=2008-07-02|publisher=Peter Lang |isbn=978-0-8204-5694-2|access-date=2019-09-23|archive-date=2019-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190627110359/https://www.peterlang.com/view/title/57745|url-status=live))</ref> According to Senft and Poitier, the concept of the micro-celebrity "is best understood as a new style of online performance that involves people 'amping up' their popularity over the Web using technologies like video, blogs and social networking sites".<ref name=":1">((Cite book|url=https://www.academia.edu/205283|title=Camgirls: Celebrity and Community in the Age of Social Networks|last=Senft|first=Theresa (Terri)|access-date=2019-06-27|archive-date=2022-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220214234906/https://www.academia.edu/205283|url-status=live))</ref> A number of other researchers have published papers on micro-celebrities.<ref>((Cite journal|last1=Crystal Abidin|last2=Crystal Abidin|date=November 2015|title=Communicative intimacies: Influencers and Perceived Interconnectedness|url=https://adanewmedia.org/2015/11/issue8-abidin/|journal=Ada: A Journal of Gender, New Media, and Technology|issue=8|doi=10.7264/N3MW2FFG|doi-broken-date=March 6, 2024 |issn=2325-0496|access-date=2019-06-27|archive-date=2019-06-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611183138/https://adanewmedia.org/2015/11/issue8-abidin/|url-status=live))</ref><ref>((Cite journal|last=Jerslev|first=Anne|date=2016|title=In the Time of the Microcelebrity: Celebrification and the YouTuber Zoella|url=https://ijoc.org/index.php/ijoc/article/viewFile/5078/1822|journal=International Journal of Communication|volume=10|pages=5233–5251|access-date=2019-06-27|archive-date=2018-09-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180927111302/http://ijoc.org/index.php/ijoc/article/viewFile/5078/1822|url-status=live))</ref><ref>((Cite book|title=Status Update: Celebrity, Publicity, and Branding in the Social Media Age|last=Marwick|first=Alice|publisher=Yale University Press|year=2015|isbn=9780300209389|location=New Haven))</ref><ref>((Cite journal|last=Raun|first=Tobias|date=2018-02-01|title=Capitalizing intimacy: New subcultural forms of micro-celebrity strategies and affective labour on YouTube|journal=Convergence|volume=24|issue=1|pages=99–113|doi=10.1177/1354856517736983|s2cid=148595992|issn=1354-8565|doi-access=free))</ref> According to Tobias Raun, a micro-celebrity is "a form of identity linked almost exclusively to the internet, characterizing a process by which people express, create and share their identities online".<ref>((Cite journal|last=Raun|first=Tobias|date=2018-01-10|title=Capitalizing intimacy|journal=Convergence: The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies|volume=24|issue=1|pages=99–113|doi=10.1177/1354856517736983|s2cid=148595992|issn=1354-8565|doi-access=free))</ref> According to Senft and [[Alice Marwick|Marwick]], micro-celebrities differ from more traditional forms of celebrities associated with [[Hollywood (film industry)|Hollywood]] stars because a micro-celebrity's popularity is often directly linked to their audience, and the audience comes to expect a certain degree of authenticity and transparency.<ref name=":1" />
((Blockquote|The Internet allows the masses to wrest control of fame from traditional media, creating micro-celebrities with the click of a mouse|David Weinberger of the [[Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society|Harvard Berkman Center for Internet and Society]]<ref>[http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/05/01/roflcon/ "The new fame: Internet celebrity"] ((Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200915030738/http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/05/01/roflcon/ |date=2020-09-15 )) at [[CNN]]</ref>))

=== Wanghong ===
[[Wanghong economy|''Wanghong'']] (((lang-zh|s=网红|p=wǎnghóng|l=Internet fame))) is the Chinese version of Internet stardom. The [[Wanghong economy|''wanghong'' economy]] is a [[Economy of China|Chinese digital economy]] based on [[influencer marketing]] in social media.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://www.ecns.cn/business/2016/03-16/203077.shtml|title=Celebrity economy set for explosive growth in China|website=ecns.cn|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2020-01-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128145843/http://www.ecns.cn/business/2016/03-16/203077.shtml|url-status=live))</ref> Some ''wanghong'' celebrities generate profits via retail or [[e-commerce]], through attracting the attention of their followers. Internet celebrities have become a popular phenomenon in China. For example, [[Sister Furong]] (''Fúróng Jiějiě,'' 芙蓉姐姐) received worldwide notoriety and fame for her [[self-promotion]] efforts through online posts.<ref>((cite book|title=Celebrity in China|publisher=Hong Kong University Press|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YSjHUvePYVAC|access-date=6 August 2015))</ref> According to CBN Data, a commercial data company affiliated with [[Alibaba Group]], the Chinese internet celebrity economy was estimated to be worth ((CNY|link=yes|58 billion)) (((US$|8.4 billion|link=yes))) in 2016, more than China's total cinema [[box office]] revenue in 2015.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://europe.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2016-09/17/content_26812432.htm|title=China's Internet celebrity economy bigger than cinema((!))Society((!))chinadaily.com.cn|website=europe.chinadaily.com.cn|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2018-04-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180420195434/http://europe.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2016-09/17/content_26812432.htm|url-status=live))</ref>

There are two main business models in the ''wanghong'' economy: social media advertising, and online retail. In the online retailing business model, e-commerce-based ''wanghong'' use social media platforms to sell self-branded products to potential buyers among followers via Chinese [[customer-to-customer]] (C2C) websites, such as [[Taobao]]. Internet celebrities may promote their products by modeling for their shops by posting pictures or videos of themselves wearing the clothes or accessories they sell, or giving makeup or fashion tips.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://m.chinadaily.com.cn/en/2016-03/16/content_23887534.htm|title=Celebrity economy set for explosive growth in China|website=China Daily|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2017-04-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170422212852/http://m.chinadaily.com.cn/en/2016-03/16/content_23887534.htm|url-status=live))</ref> They serve as key opinion leaders for their followers, who either aspire to be like them or look up to them.

[[Zhang Dayi]] (张大奕)—one of China's best-known ''wanghong'' according to [[BBC News]], with 4.9 million followers on [[Sina Weibo]]—has an online shop on Taobao, reportedly earning ((CNY|300 million)) (((US$|46 million))) per year.<ref>((Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-36802769|title=The making of a Chinese internet star|last=Tsoi|first=Grace|date=2016-08-01|work=BBC News|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2018-03-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316012935/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-36802769|url-status=live))</ref> This is comparable to the ((US$|21 million)) made by [[Fan Bingbing]] (范冰冰), a top Chinese actress. [[Li Ziqi (food blogger)|Li Ziqi]] (李子柒), a celebrity food blogger with more than 16 million followers on Weibo, has inspired many bloggers to post similar content on traditional [[Chinese cooking]] and crafts.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-08/02/c_137363798.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180802084618/http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-08/02/c_137363798.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 2, 2018|title=100 Chinese selected as "good young netizens" - Xinhua &#124; English.news.cn|website=www.xinhuanet.com|access-date=May 18, 2020))</ref>

[[Censorship in China]] has created an independent [[social media]] ecosystem that has become successful in its own way.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/understanding-social-media-in-china|title=Understanding social media in China|website=McKinsey & Company|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2018-04-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180411174455/https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/understanding-social-media-in-china|url-status=live))</ref> For every Western social media platform, there is a comparable Chinese version; Chinese social media platforms, however, generate revenue differently. The greatest difference between Chinese internet celebrities and their Western counterparts is that the profits generated by Chinese celebrities can be immense. Unlike YouTube, which takes 45% of advertising revenue,<ref>((Cite web|url=https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/72902?hl=en|title=YouTube partner earnings overview - YouTube Help|website=support.google.com|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2019-02-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190217170256/https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/72902?hl=en|url-status=live))</ref> Sina Weibo, one of the largest Chinese social media platforms, is not involved in advertising, which allows internet celebrities to be more independent. The monthly income of Chinese influencers can exceed ((CNY|10 million)) (((US$|1.5 million))).<ref>((Cite news|url=http://www.northeastern.edu/rugglesmedia/2018/01/27/internet-celebrity-and-diversity/|title=How Do China's Internet Celebrity Differ From America's?|date=2018-01-27|work=Ruggles Media|access-date=2018-04-11|archive-date=2018-04-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180411174636/http://www.northeastern.edu/rugglesmedia/2018/01/27/internet-celebrity-and-diversity/|url-status=live))</ref>

===Net idols===
((see also|Japanese idol|List of net idols))

In [[Japan]], a specific type of internet celebrity is known as a ((nihongo|net idol|ネットアイドル|Netto aidoru)), a sub-category of the [[Japanese idol|idol industry in Japan]]. Net idols first emerged in the 1990s through personal websites and blogs when internet became more accessible, with some selling personal merchandise such as photo books through their websites.<ref>((cite news | first=Tomo | last=Kogawa | url=http://kodansha.cplaza.ne.jp/dejitoku/famous/idol/index.html | title= 「デジタル特捜隊 ネットの有名人たちspecial ネットアイドルBEST10 1999年夏篇」 | language=ja | work=[[Kodansha]] | date=1999 | access-date=2021-05-12 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001011184307/http://kodansha.cplaza.ne.jp/dejitoku/famous/idol/index.html | archive-date=2000-10-11))</ref> Around March 2007, [[dance cover]]s (known as ((nihongo|''odottemita''|踊ってみた||((literal translation)) "I tried dancing"))) became popular in video-sharing websites such as [[Niconico]], which in turn led people into performing choreographed dances from anime series and idol groups.<ref name="gadget 2010-01-23">((cite news | url=https://news.livedoor.com/article/detail/4565356/ | title=『ニコニコ動画』で定番ジャンルとなった"踊ってみた"動画！ 何故踊る？その心理を聞いてみた | language=ja | work=Gadget News | date=2010-01-23 | accessdate=2023-07-13))</ref> Notable creators of dance covers, known as ((nihongo|''odorite''|踊り手)), who later debuted as idols include Kozue Aikawa from [[Danceroid]],<ref>((cite news | url=https://wpb.shueisha.co.jp/news/technology/2016/11/25/75650/ | title=「ニコニコ動画」からアイドルデビューした愛川こずえ 「ニコニコがなかったらたぶんニートになってた（笑）」| trans-title=Kozue Aikawa, an idol who debuted from Nico Nico Douga: "If it weren't for Niconico, I might've become a [[NEET]] (laughs)" | language=ja | work=[[Weekly Playboy]] | publisher=[[Shueisha]] | date=2016-11-25 | accessdate=2023-07-13))</ref> [[Beckii Cruel]],<ref>((cite news | url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/news/72162/full/ | title="可愛いにもほどがある!"英ネットアイドルのベッキー・クルーエルが初のテレビ出演! | trans-title="She has so much cuteness!" British net idol Beckii Cruel makes her first television appearance! | language=ja | work=[[Oricon]] | date=2010-01-05 | accessdate=2023-07-10))</ref> and [[Keekihime]].<ref name="ascii 2013-04-25">((cite web | first=Minoru | last=Hirota | url=https://weekly.ascii.jp/elem/000/002/615/2615137/ | title=ニコ動が引きつけた才能"ケーキ姫☆優海"【ニコ動今昔物語】 | trans-title=Keekihime, a talent drawn in by Nico Douga (A past and present tale on Nico Douga) | language=ja | work=[[ASCII Media Works|Weekly ASCII]] | publisher=[[Kadokawa Future Publishing]] | date=2013-04-25 | accessdate=2023-06-18))</ref>

=== VTubers ===
[[VTuber|VTubers]] or virtual Youtubers are entertainers that use digital 3D model avatars that are computer generated. VTubers originated from Japan, beginning in the early 2010s, and have risen in popularity in the 2020s. The first virtual Youtuber was Ami Yamato,<ref>((Cite web |last=Rasmussen |first=Makena |title=Who Were the First VTubers and Virtual Streamers |url=https://www.virtualhumans.org/article/who-were-the-first-vtubers-and-virtual-streamers |website=Virtual Humans |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=2022-11-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221122053518/https://www.virtualhumans.org/article/who-were-the-first-vtubers-and-virtual-streamers |url-status=live ))</ref> who debuted on May 18, 2011; the first VTuber who had used the phrase "virtual Youtuber" is [[Kizuna AI]],<ref>((Cite web |last=Kelts |first=Roland |title=Japan's virtual YouTubers have millions of real subscribers — and make millions of real dollars |url=https://restofworld.org/2021/vtubers/ |website=rest of world |date=26 July 2021 |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=2022-02-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206081758/https://restofworld.org/2021/vtubers/ |url-status=live ))</ref> who began entertaining in 2016. The appeal of VTubers is similar to a real person, except the entertainer may choose to remain anonymous through their VTuber persona. The 2D anime virtual avatars appealed to many Japanese fans and popularity began to spread internationally. In October 2021, there has been reported to be 16,000<ref>((Cite web |last=Li |first=Donna |title=The Rise of VTubers: An Overview of the Surging Popularity of "Virtual YouTubers" |url=https://thesciencesurvey.com/arts-entertainment/2022/07/24/the-rise-of-vtubers-an-overview-of-the-surging-popularity-of-virtual-youtubers/ |website=The Science Survey |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=2022-11-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130053824/https://thesciencesurvey.com/arts-entertainment/2022/07/24/the-rise-of-vtubers-an-overview-of-the-surging-popularity-of-virtual-youtubers/ |url-status=live ))</ref> VTubers around the world.

VTubers function in a similar fashion to YouTubers and [[Video game livestreaming|streamers]], with some VTubers being music artists. These VTubers that were music artists or broadcast their musical talent would be dubbed "VSinger" (virtual singer).<ref>((Cite web |last=Amos |first=Andrew |title=VTubers redefine the music industry as virtual concerts and idols rise up |url=https://www.dexerto.com/entertainment/vtubers-redefining-music-virtual-idols-concerts-1973954/ |website=dexerto |date=November 2, 2022 |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=2022-12-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209062738/https://www.dexerto.com/entertainment/vtubers-redefining-music-virtual-idols-concerts-1973954/ |url-status=live ))</ref> Agencies such as [[Hololive Production|Hololive]] and [[VShojo]], scout and hire these VTubers to aid in marketing and build popularity. Their trademark character being the VTuber avatar or a 2D anime form of that character on the album covers, allowing recognition of the avatar and for the agency.<ref>((Cite web |title=[Music] Release of Virtual Idol Tokino Sora's New Cover Album "Re:Play"! |url=https://hololive.hololivepro.com/en/news/20210907-1-2/ |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=2022-12-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209062740/https://hololive.hololivepro.com/en/news/20210907-1-2/ |url-status=live ))</ref>

== Income ==
[[File:Chiara Ferragni - Giorgio Armani Show - Milan Fashion Week - 23 Sept. 2013.jpg|thumb|[[Chiara Ferragni]] is a [[fashion influencer]] and blogger known for her sponsored fashion posts.]]
Different types of internet celebrities can make money in various ways, but most of them earn money from [[Testimonial|endorsements]] or sponsorships. Internet celebrities can use their fame to promote products or experiences to their followers, as a method of providing credibility to products.<ref>((Cite journal|last=Juntiwasarakij|first=Suwan|date=2018|title=Framing emerging behaviors influenced by internet celebrity|journal=Kasetsart Journal of Social Sciences|volume=39|issue=3|pages=550–555|doi=10.1016/j.kjss.2018.06.014|s2cid=158069963|issn=2452-3151|doi-access=free))</ref> In social media advertising, internet celebrities can be paid to advertise products. When they have garnered sufficient attention and following, they can be approached by advertising companies to help advertise products and reach a wider audience. Endorsements for fashion and cosmetic products are common for Instagram internet influencers. [[YouTubers]] tend to advertise a wider array of products, regardless of relevance to their genre of content.

Influencers can also expand their source of revenue by creating their own products or [[merchandise]] to sell.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2018/12/03/highest-paid-youtube-stars-2018-markiplier-jake-paul-pewdiepie-and-more/|title=Highest-Paid YouTube Stars 2018: Markiplier, Jake Paul, PewDiePie And More|last=Robehmed|first=Natalie|website=Forbes|access-date=2019-03-29|archive-date=2019-04-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421133702/https://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2018/12/03/highest-paid-youtube-stars-2018-markiplier-jake-paul-pewdiepie-and-more/|url-status=live))</ref> By doing this, and by using their platform to promote their products to an established audience, influencers can earn money by developing their own reputable brands. Bloggers can feature sponsored posts in social media to make profits.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://businessjournalism.org/2016/11/how-online-celebrities-make-money/|title=How Online Celebrities Make Money Via Advertising and Endorsements|date=2016-11-08|website=Reynolds Center|access-date=2019-03-29|archive-date=2019-03-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329215512/https://businessjournalism.org/2016/11/how-online-celebrities-make-money/|url-status=live))</ref> For instance, fashion blogger [[Chiara Ferragni]] started as an online blogger, and then gained millions of followers on Instagram. She later created her brand, the Chiara Ferragni Collection. Like many other Instagram celebrities, Ferragni started by charging money per post for promoting brands. She earns revenue from promotional Instagram posts and the sale of her own products.<ref>((Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2016/nov/29/chiara-farragni-blogger-the-blonde-salad-socia-media-style-posts-multi-million-pound-business|title=Chiara Ferragni – how a 'crazy blogger' turned her life into a shop window|last=Cochrane|first=Lauren|date=2016-11-29|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-04-07|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=2018-11-16|archive-url=https://archive.today/20181116112816/https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2016/nov/29/chiara-farragni-blogger-the-blonde-salad-socia-media-style-posts-multi-million-pound-business|url-status=live))</ref>

In 2020, a report by venture-capital firm SignalFire stated that the economy spawned by internet creators was the "fastest-growing type of small business".<ref>((Cite web|date=2020-11-29|title=What is the creator economy? Influencer tools and trends|url=https://signalfire.com/blog/creator-economy/|access-date=2021-05-05|website=SignalFire|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-05-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505125933/https://signalfire.com/blog/creator-economy/|url-status=live))</ref>

=== Advertising regulations ===
Despite the recent emergence of influencer culture, influencer marketing and advertising it is left highly unregulated by existing legislation. This became a prevalent concern when users on social media platforms were finding it difficult to distinguish any differences between advertisements and sponsorships with personal posts. This was evident with the mismanagement of [[Fyre Festival]], where numerous Instagram influencers were sanctioned for their lack of transparency.<ref>((Cite web|last=Gillil|first=Nikki|date=2019-02-19|title=What impact has Fyre Festival had on influencer marketing?|url=https://econsultancy.com/what-impact-has-fyre-festival-had-on-influencer-marketing/|access-date=2020-09-02|website=Econsultancy|df=mdy-all|archive-date=2020-10-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029030452/https://econsultancy.com/what-impact-has-fyre-festival-had-on-influencer-marketing/|url-status=live))</ref> This led to a massive backlash from the public, who felt the promotion of the event deliberately misled and confused target audiences. As a result, numerous advertising bodies sought to introduce strict regulations and guidelines around influencer marketing. This includes the AANA (Australian Associations of National Advertisers), who states that influencer advertising must be "clearly distinguishable".<ref>((Cite web|date=September 20, 2018|title=Ads must clearly be ads|url=https://adstandards.com.au/blog/ads-must-clearly-be-ads|access-date=September 2, 2020|website=Ad Standards|archive-date=August 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807011458/https://adstandards.com.au/blog/ads-must-clearly-be-ads|url-status=live))</ref>

== Cancel culture ==
[[Cancel culture]] is a form of ostracism where an individual is excluded from social or professional circles because of certain past or present actions or allegations. The act may occur on social media platforms or in person. Cancel culture is a common term among internet celebrities where they may lose their source of income, fans, or reputation because of their controversial actions. For example, Beauty Guru YouTuber [[Jeffree Star]] has faced many allegations of misconduct in his career, which include cyberbullying and vocally expressing racist remarks. On July 10, 2020, the makeup brand Morphe cut ties and ceased all makeup collaborations with Jeffree Star because his problematic past had resurfaced.<ref>((Cite web|date=2020-07-16|title=Morphe's Jeffree Star split shows high risk of reliance on influencers|url=https://www.glossy.co/beauty/morphes-jeffree-star-split-shows-high-risk-of-reliance-on-influencers/|access-date=2021-04-19|website=Glossy|language=en|archive-date=2021-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413010501/https://www.glossy.co/beauty/morphes-jeffree-star-split-shows-high-risk-of-reliance-on-influencers/|url-status=live))</ref> The year before that, Kuwaiti celebrity [[Sondos Alqattan]] was "cancelled" for criticising Filipinos. As a result of this, some brands cut ties with her.<ref>((Cite web|url = https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/mac-cosmetics-releases-statement-denouncing-kuwaiti-influencer-sondos-al-qattan-1.753973|title = MAC Cosmetics releases statement denouncing Kuwaiti influencer Sondos al Qattan|date = 26 July 2018|access-date = 12 March 2022|archive-date = 12 March 2022|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220312050834/https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/mac-cosmetics-releases-statement-denouncing-kuwaiti-influencer-sondos-al-qattan-1.753973|url-status = live))</ref>

== Interacting with fans ==
[[File:VidCon-Outside.jpg|thumb|[[VidCon]] 2017]]
[[Meetup]]s are often a way internet celebrities interact with fans in real life. Occasionally, an internet celebrity might organize a meetup and invite fans to meet them at a certain place and time without proper organization. This can attract crowds of fans, causing disorderly or even unsafe situations. For example, [[Tana Mongeau|''Tanacon'']] was an organization produced in collaboration with talent manager [[Michael Weist]]<ref name="How do you make money off social media? Just ask 'Jawline's' star">((cite web |last1=Kaufman |first1=Amy |title=Staff Writer |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2019-08-23/jawline-youtube-stars-instagram-hulu |website=The Los Angeles Times |date=23 August 2019 |access-date=10 July 2020 |archive-date=1 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801230610/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2019-08-23/jawline-youtube-stars-instagram-hulu |url-status=live ))</ref> involving a group of internet celebrities who were set to meet paying fans, but did not follow through. Because of the disorganized setup, the meetup resulted in chaos.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/06/what-happened-at-tanacon.html|title=Tanacon Was a Fyre Festival for the YouTube Set|last=Kircher|first=Madison Malone|date=2018-06-26|website=Intelligencer|access-date=2019-03-11|archive-date=2019-02-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227060435/http://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/06/what-happened-at-tanacon.html|url-status=live))</ref>

Alternatively, events can be organized at a venue with security personnel. [[VidCon]] is an annual organized video conference designed for people interested in online videos. It invites internet content creators to participate in events for paying fans, such as performances, panels, and meet-and-greets.<ref>((Cite web|url=http://vidcon.com/about/|title=About|website=VidCon US|access-date=2019-03-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325041439/http://vidcon.com/about/|archive-date=2019-03-25|url-status=dead))</ref>

== Effect on fans ==
Internet celebrities can draw in a devoted crowd of fans whether their reach is small or wide. A scholarly article published from [[Thammasat University]] in [[Thailand]] explains that the younger generation is becoming more attracted to the path of fame compared to the typical intellectual development and financial security route.<ref name=":02" /> The appearance of the ease and simplicity of the life of internet celebrities obstructs the reality of what this life often really entails. Seeing influencers display the highlights of their lives has shown to produce some unintended effects on fans.

[[File:VidCon_attendees_(14350632799).jpg|thumb|Fans at the 2014 VidCon event where hundreds of individuals wait to see their favorite internet celebrity YouTubers]]

Those who closely follow the lives of internet celebrities are more likely to develop psychological difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and dissociation.<ref name=":12">((Cite journal |last1=Zsila |first1=Ágnes |last2=McCutcheon |first2=Lynn E. |last3=Demetrovics |first3=Zsolt |title=The association of celebrity worship with problematic Internet use, maladaptive daydreaming, and desire for fame |journal=Journal of Behavioral Addictions |year=2018 |volume=7 |issue=3 |pages=654–664 |doi=10.1556/2006.7.2018.76 |issn=2062-5871 |pmc=6426373 |pmid=30221539))</ref> Although many internet celebrities appreciate the support and loyalty of their viewers and fans, the dedication to their lives can sometimes be intense. Fans may develop extreme behaviors or attitudes towards their favorite celebrities that can be identified as obsessive or may sometimes result to criminal behavior.<ref name=":12" /> The younger crowd are also being impacted through seeing their internet celebrities on different social media platforms. ''The Journal of Behavioral Addictions'' published by [[Akadémiai Kiadó|Akademiai Kiado]] evaluates a study that was done on Hungarian adolescents demonstrate these effects. The research found that the desire for fame on the internet was negatively associated with self-acceptance and potentially result to materialism and the desire for social recognition.<ref name=":12" />

Internet celebrities are also able to influence fans through creating [[parasocial relationships]] with their audiences. For example, [[Kim Kardashian]] frequently creates the appearance of authenticity through harnessing the emotions of her audience. In Lueck's (2012) study they find that 60% of her Facebook advertising contains an "embedded emotional/transformational story".<ref>((Cite journal |last=Lueck |first=L. A. |date=2015 |title=Friend-zone with benefits: The parasocial advertising of Kim Kardashian |url=https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1080/13527266.2012.726235 |journal=Journal of Marketing Communications |volume=21 |issue=2 |pages=215–229|doi=10.1080/13527266.2012.726235 |hdl=11299/167651 |s2cid=167709180 |hdl-access=free ))</ref> Her social media posts blur the boundaries between commercial promotion and personal storytelling, making it more difficult for followers to distinguish between authentic messages and promotional material. This motivates the followers to engage in particular purchasing behaviours which reflects her parasocial influence.

== See also ==
((colbegin))
* [[Celebrity culture]]
* [[Content creation]]
* [[Internet activism]]
* [[Kid influencer]]
* [[Internet Hall of Fame]]
* [[List of Internet phenomena]]
* [[Online streamer]]
* [[Role model]]
* [[Social media marketing]]
* [[Usenet celebrity]]
* [[Virtual influencer]]
* [[Vlogger]]
((Div col end))

== References ==
((Reflist))

== Further reading ==
* ((cite web | last1=Feuer | first1=Alan | last2=George | first2=Jason | title=Internet Fame Is Cruel Mistress for a Dancer of the Numa Numa | website=[[The New York Times]] | date=2005-02-26 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/26/nyregion/internet-fame-is-cruel-mistress-for-a-dancer-of-the-numa-numa.html| access-date=2018-01-11))
* ((cite web | title=The Dark Side of Web Fame | website=[[Newsweek]] | date=2010-03-13 | url=http://www.newsweek.com/dark-side-web-fame-93505 | ref=((sfnref | Newsweek | 2010)) | access-date=2018-01-11))
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090414035110/http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/rise_of_an_internet_star_parla.php "Rise of an Internet Star - Parlaying YouTube Fame Into Big Business"] at [[ReadWriteWeb]]
* ((cite magazine | last=Tanz | first=Jason | title=Internet Famous: Julia Allison and the Secrets of Self-Promotion | magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|WIRED]] | date=2008-07-15 | url=https://www.wired.com/2008/07/howto-allison/| access-date=2018-01-11))
* ((cite web | last=Sorgatz | first=Rex | title=The Microfame Game | website=[[New York (magazine)|NYMag.com]] | date=2008-06-17 | url=https://nymag.com/news/media/47958/| access-date=2018-01-11))
((Japanese erotic cinema))
((Nijisanji))
((Authority control))

((DEFAULTSORT:Internet Celebrity))
[[Category:Celebrity]]
[[Category:Internet celebrities| ]]
[[Category:Cultural trends]]
[[Category:Social influence]]
[[Category:Social media]]

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