'I Love LA' is a self-aware HBO comedy that satirizes the influence of internet culture and social media on Los Angeles, focusing on a talent manager and her influencer client, with a sharp, comedic take on modern fame and city life for those 'chronically online.'
Bob Irwin condemns reckless social media influencers like Mike Holston for dangerous crocodile interactions, calling for stricter enforcement of wildlife laws and potential deportation, amid ongoing investigations and concerns over wildlife safety and legal compliance in Australia.
The Vatican hosted a large youth festival in Rome, dubbed the 'Catholic Woodstock,' featuring music, prayer, and social media influencers to engage young people, with Pope Leo XIV participating in events aimed at revitalizing interest in the church among youth amid declining attendance and skepticism towards traditional religion.
Forbes' 30 Under 30 Social Media 2025 list highlights young innovators transforming the digital landscape through content creation, advocacy, and research. Notable figures include Drew Afualo, a TikToker advocating for women's empowerment, and Carlos Espina, who supports immigrants through his nonprofit. The list also features creators like Joel Bervell, who educates on racial disparities in medicine, and Kahlil Greene, who shares overlooked histories. These changemakers are influencing laws, promoting inclusivity, and developing tools to improve our relationship with social media.
Social media influencers are promoting an "anti-diet" movement to combat food shaming, but a joint investigation found that major food companies, including General Mills, are paying online dietitians to promote highly processed foods. This marketing strategy has raised concerns about the accuracy of nutritional information and the influence on consumers' eating habits. The FTC has taken action on influencer partnerships, and the FDA is considering additional labeling regulations. It's recommended to approach social media with skepticism and seek dietary advice from healthcare professionals rather than online influencers.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem's promotional video for a Texas dental practice has sparked criticism, a lawsuit, and a potential ethics inquiry, as it's unclear whether she participated in an undisclosed advertisement or used state resources. The video, featuring Noem as a patient, has raised questions about medical tourism, ethics, and potential political motives, leading to scrutiny from both legal and political perspectives.
Andrew Tate, a controversial social media influencer associated with the manosphere, has been arrested in Romania over allegations of sexual aggression. Despite his legal troubles, the misogynistic ideas he championed continue to have influence, with other "red pill" influencers poised to rise to mainstream popularity. The manosphere, an online network promoting toxic masculinity and misogyny, has found fertile ground among frustrated men, and while Tate's arrest may be a blow, similar influencers are ready to capitalize on the discontent and resentment felt by many young men.
An investigation by The New York Times reveals how parents are managing Instagram accounts for their underage daughters, attracting sexually attracted men who pay for more photos and engage in disturbing online behavior. The report analyzed 2.1 million Instagram posts, monitored online chats of professed pedophiles, and interviewed over 100 people, shedding light on the dark underworld of social media reshaping childhood, particularly for girls, with parental involvement. Some parents are driving the sale of photos, exclusive chat sessions, and even their daughters' worn clothing to mostly unknown followers, raising concerns about child exploitation and online safety.
Women are making a bigger impact in the traditionally male-dominated watch industry, with social media influencers like Brynn Wallner and Trang Trinh educating and inspiring a new generation of collectors. Their platforms have made the watch world more accessible and less intimidating, leading to a surge in interest and enthusiasm. In 2024, the watch trends and styles are expected to reflect this shift, with a focus on inclusivity and a fresh perspective.
A 16-year-old from Alabama has amassed a collection of 67 Stanley cups, with her parents spending around $3,000 to help her acquire every style and color of the popular tumblers. The viral tumbler craze, fueled by TikTok and social media marketing, has seen Stanley's profits spike tenfold in recent years. The insulated cups, known as the Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler, have become a sought-after product online, with the hashtag "#stanleycup" amassing over six billion views on TikTok. The cups, which sell for $45 to $50, have become a popular accessory for social media influencers, with limited releases causing a frenzy among customers.
Influencer Mila De Jesus, known for her weight loss journey and fitness inspiration content, has passed away at the age of 35. Her family confirmed the news on Instagram, expressing their sadness and requesting privacy. The cause of her death is currently unknown. Mila leaves behind four children and a legacy of inspiring others through her health and fitness journey, which gained her a significant online following.
Brazilian influencer Mila De Jesus passed away at 35 from an alleged heart attack, leaving behind her daughter Anna Clara and three other children. Her daughter posted a heartfelt tribute on her mother's Instagram page, asking for prayers and condolences. De Jesus had been battling psoriasis and had undergone weight loss surgery six years prior. Her followers, friends, and family mourned her loss, with fellow influencers and fans expressing their grief and offering condolences.
Social media influencer Emily Austin visited southern Israel and the Gaza border communities to witness the destruction caused by Hamas. She described the experience as "like visiting concentration camps" and emphasized the importance of seeing it firsthand. Austin, who has a large following on Instagram and Twitter, aims to educate her followers about the reality in Israel and combat anti-Israel sentiment. Despite receiving backlash and losing job opportunities, she remains committed to standing up for Israel and promoting education to fight against misinformation.
Gen Z has replaced the infamous duck face with a new selfie trend called the "scrunch face." This pose involves scrunching the nose, squinting the eyes, and raising the mouth in a cartoonish grin. The trend has gained popularity on TikTok, BeReal, and Instagram, with influencers and users embracing the new pose. The scrunch face is seen as a way to express fun and excitement, and it has become a favorite among Gen Z due to its emotive nature. Some attribute the trend's appeal to the nostalgia of infancy and the desire to appear cute.
Concerns are growing about the popular weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, which have been prescribed 40 million times in the US last year. New research warns that these drugs can cause serious and even deadly side effects, such as severe stomach problems, pancreatitis, and stomach paralysis. The drugs, originally developed to treat diabetes, have gained popularity through social media influencers and celebrities. The manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, stands behind the safety and efficacy of their drugs, but doctors emphasize the importance of appropriate usage and monitoring by physicians.