25 Social Media Influencers to Know in 2026

Influencer marketing has evolved into one of the most effective and efficient ways for brands to reach audiences, and 2026 is proving that creators still play a central role in digital strategy. As platforms shift and new voices rise, influencers are shaping trends, driving consumer decisions, and redefining how brands build trust. Below, we highlight 25 creators and industry experts who are leading the way in this new era of social media.

What Is Influencer Marketing? 

Before we dive into this era’s most popular influencers, it is important to understand what influencer marketing is. Influencer marketing is a strategy where brands partner with creators who have built credibility and engaged communities on social media. These influencers share products and stories in authentic ways, helping brands reach audiences through trusted voices rather than traditional ads.  

The Top 25 Influencers in Social Media 2026

This list features the top 25 most influential figures shaping the modern social media, digital marketing, and entrepreneurial spaces. 

1) Katie Fang

Katie Fang is a leading beauty creator known for her polished makeup looks, skincare insights, and approachable product breakdowns. Featured on Forbes Social Media 30 Under 30, she has collaborated with major brands including Dior and Cetaphil, cementing her credibility in the beauty space. With 6.5 million followers on TikTok, Katie continues to influence trends and help audiences discover products that genuinely work.

2) Leana Deeb

Leana Deeb is a fast-rising fitness and lifestyle creator known for her motivating workout content, healthy meal inspiration, and uplifting mindset videos. She’s built a strong community by sharing approachable routines and real-life progress, making fitness feel accessible to all. With her mix of training tips, daily habits, and personal growth messages, Leana continues to inspire millions to pursue a healthier, more confident lifestyle.

3) Eric Sedeño

Eric Sedeño is known for his upbeat personality, quick humor, and imaginative short-form videos. He blends comedy and style with everyday storytelling. His content often feels like a conversation with an internet bestie. Beyond his comedy skits and lifestyle content, Eric also hosts a podcast called Wild Wild Web. He can also be seen partnering with brands such as Amazon and Uniqlo. This showcases his versatility as both an entertainer and digital creator. 

4) Clarke Peoples

Clarke Peoples is a fashion creator known for her polished aesthetic, thoughtful routines, and relatable day-to-day content. Alongside style inspiration and beauty tips, she often shares insights about navigating higher education and balancing academic life. This makes her content especially meaningful for students. Clarke also highlights themes of women’s empowerment, which has helped her build a community that values personal growth and authentic expression.

5)  Quenlin Blackwell

Quenlin Blackwell is a well-loved comedic creator who first gained attention on Vine, where her quick, expressive humor helped her build an early fanbase. After the platform shutdown, she successfully transitioned to YouTube and TikTok. Quenlin’s ability to adapt across platforms has made her a standout voice in online entertainment and a favorite among Gen Z audiences.

6) Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee is a leading tech influencer celebrated for his in-depth reviews, hands-on gadget demos, and insightful analysis of the latest in consumer technology. Covering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, Marques combines expert knowledge with polished production, making complex tech accessible to viewers. With over 20 million YouTube subscribers, he has become one of the most trusted voices in the tech space. 

7) Jordan The Stallion

Jordan the Stallion is a comedy creator known for his witty skits, energetic personality, and relatable hot takes on everyday life. His content blends humor with storytelling, earning him a loyal following across social media. Jordan has also partnered with major brands such as H&R Block and Verizon, demonstrating his ability to combine entertainment with strategic brand collaborations while continuing to build his digital influence. 

8) Druski 

Druski is a comedy powerhouse in every sense. His sketches, impressions, and irreverent humor have made him one of the most recognizable faces on TikTok and Instagram. Known for his ability to turn everyday situations into hilarious content, he built a massive following. Beyond social media, Druski has collaborated with major brands, including Google, Nike, and PrizePicks, demonstrating his reach and influence extend beyond the screen and skits.

9) Mikayla Nogueira 

Mikayla Nogueira is a Massachusetts-based makeup artist known for her bold looks, honest product reviews, and signature accent that fans instantly recognize. Her talent and authenticity have made her one of the most prominent voices in the beauty community. In addition to her social presence, Mikayla is the founder of Point of View Beauty, where she channels her artistry and passion into a growing beauty brand that reflects her unique style and creativity. 

10) Brandon Edelman 

Brandon Edelman is a Philadelphia-based creator known for his upbeat party content, comedy clips, and energetic food reviews. Blending lifestyle moments with humor and genuine enthusiasm, he’s built a loyal following that enjoys his charismatic, down-to-earth style. Beyond entertainment, Brandon is deeply committed to supporting small businesses and charitable organizations in his community, using his platform to spotlight local gems and give back whenever he can.

11) Leilani Green

Leilani Green has become a favorite online for her big sister energy. She offers gentle guidance on hair care, beauty routines, and self-care. Known for her glossy tutorials and effortless glam, she creates content that feels both comforting and aspirational. Leilani has also expanded her influence through partnerships with major brands, including a notable collaboration with Sephora, further solidifying her place in the beauty community. 

12) Meredith Hayden 

Meredith Hayden, known online as wishbonekitchen, has become a standout voice in the food creator space with her polished cooking videos, approachable recipes, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments. With 2.3 million followers on TikTok, she’s turned her background as a private chef into a full digital brand. Meredith is also the author of her own cookbook and has secured major partnerships. 

13) Ms. Rachel 

Ms. Rachel is a beloved children’s content creator known for her warm, encouraging teaching style and her popular educational series “Songs for Littles. With her background in early childhood education, she creates videos that help young children build language skills through songs, repetition, and interactive learning. Her gentle, patient approach has made her feel like a trusted friend to both kids and parents.

14) Alix Earle 

Alix Earle is a leading voice in fashion, beauty, and travel content known for her candid personality and chic style. Her “day in the life” videos, vacation diaries, and beauty routines have built a strong connection with viewers who appreciate her mix of glam and authenticity. Alix has become a go-to creator for those looking for inspiration with a relatable, modern edge.

15) Erika Kullberg 

Erika Kullberg is a finance and lifestyle creator best known for breaking down money topics in a simple way, empowering viewers to save smarter and spend strategically. Alongside her financial tips, she shares clever travel hacks that help her audience stretch their budgets while exploring the world. Whether she’s uncovering travel perks or sharing practical advice for everyday life, Erika has become a trusted resource for viewers looking to make the most of their money.

16) Wisdom Kaye 

Wisdom Kaye is a standout fashion creator celebrated for his high-concept styling, editorial-level visuals, and bold, avant-garde looks. Rising to prominence on TikTok, he blends runway inspiration with his own creative flair, turning everyday outfits into artful statements. Wisdom’s ability to merge fashion and striking aesthetics has earned him recognition from major fashion houses and solidified him as one of the most influential style voices of his generation. 

17) Charli D’Amelio 

Charli D’Amelio is one of TikTok’s biggest stars, with over 155 million followers who tune in for her dance videos and relatable personality. She has leveraged her massive reach to secure brand partnerships with companies such as Wingstop and CeraVe. Beyond her viral content, Charli continues to influence trends, connect with fans, and expand her presence across social media.

18) Anayka She 

Anayka She is a rising R&B artist and creator known for blending music, humor, and lifestyle content. She first gained attention through viral singing clips, which helped her TikTok account grow to 1.7 million followers. She also dives into fashion insights and makeup tutorials as well as get-ready-with-me videos. Anayka is making an impact online as both an influencer and artist with her distinct voice.

19) Tefi Pessoa

Tefi Pessoa is a lifestyle and advice creator celebrated for her thoughtful storytelling. From red-carpet interviews to candid TikTok videos, she shares insights on life and personal growth. In addition to social media content, she has also expanded into podcasting with “Tefi Talks.”  She also has an advice column called “Ask Tefi.” This increases her connections through her guidance and authenticity. 

20) Sketch

Sketch is a social media creator who rose from the gaming world to mainstream influence through his blend of humor, sports enthusiasm, gaming content, and his famous tagline, “What’s up, brother!” He first gained traction on the popular streaming platform Twitch. As his reach grew, Sketch landed partnerships with brands like PrizePicks, Fanatics, Logitech, and Chipotle. This showcases his ability to bridge sports and gaming with broader lifestyle and entertainment trends.  

21) Latasha James 

After working in 500 Fortune companies, tech start-ups, and nonprofits, Latasha James launched her own Business, James + Park. While completing her Film, Video & Media Studies degree, James began freelancing on the side, which later became a full-time career. Her content combines marketing advice with personal storytelling, giving viewers an inside look at brand building. Latasha inspires her followers to pursue their passions and turn side hustles into thriving careers.

22) Keith Lee 

Keith Lee is a food reviewer and content creator known for his honest, energetic, and often hilarious takes on eateries, snacks, and culinary trends. He brings a balance of human and enthusiasm to each review. With a massive following across social platforms, Keith has become a go-to source for both entertaining food content and trustworthy recommendations. He spotlights everything from local hidden gems to viral menu items.

23) Becca Bloom   

Becca Bloom is a luxury lifestyle influencer who shares insights on branding and high-end fashion trends. She combines business advice, aspirational content, and relationship tips to help her audience navigate professional and personal growth. With over 5.3 million TikTok followers, she is one creator you will want to follow in 2026.  

24) IShowSpeed

IShowSpeed is a high-energy entertainer and streamer whose content spans gaming, comedic skits, and viral live reactions across TikTok, YouTube, and Twitch. Beyond gaming, he’s gained attention for his travel vlogs, taking fans on adventures and giving them a look at his life on the road. His content has made him one of the most talked-about creators going into 2026. 

25) Mr. Beast

If you have been on social media for any amount of time, you probably have heard of Mr.Beast. He is one of the most influential creators of the last decade. He is known for his over-the-top stunts, massive challenges, and philanthropy-driven content. His videos combine entertainment with generosity, captivating billions worldwide. Beyond his content, he has launched several successful businesses and has landed numerous brand deals.

Grow Your Influence With Metricool 

Whether you aspire to become a full-time influencer or build a career in social media, Metricool gives you the tools to grow more efficiently. Plan, schedule, and analyze all your content in one place so you can focus on creating content. Take charge of your social media journey and start growing with intention today.