celebrities

Gen Z Takes Over TikTok – A Generational Breakdown of the Most Popular TikTok Accounts

April 7, 2025 By Emma

When it comes to TikTok, one thing is crystal clear: Generation Z has firmly taken the reins. As the platform continues to soar in popularity, the youngest generation in the digital age, born roughly between 1997 and 2012, is shaping the app’s content and driving its viral trends. Whether it’s viral dance moves, hilarious skits, or heartwarming moments, Gen Z has made TikTok their own playground.

Unlike platforms like X and Instagram, where Millennials dominate, TikTok has become a space where Gen Z excels. While Millennials thrive on X with personal branding and global influence, and are also dominating Instagram, TikTok’s fast-paced, short-form videos are the perfect fit for Gen Z’s creativity and quick consumption habits. This generational difference in platform dynamics showcases how each generation has found its own niche in the social media landscape.

Of the top 10 most-followed TikTok accounts, a significant 70% of the creators belong to Generation Z. These young content creators have mastered the art of using short-form video content to capture attention and build massive followings. But what makes TikTok so appealing to this generation? And how are the content creators shaping the platform? Let’s break it down from a generational perspective and explore which creators belong to which generation and the type of content they’re producing.

Generational Breakdown of the Top 10 Most-Followed Accounts on TikTok:

Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012): 7 accounts
Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996): 2 accounts
Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980): 1 account
Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964): 0 accounts – Looks like TikTok hasn’t quite caught the attention of the Baby Boomers just yet! Guess they’re still figuring out how to send a text.

With these stats, it’s clear that Generation Z dominates the platform, but Millennials and even a member of Generation X have still found their place among the most-followed accounts. Let’s take a closer look at the creators who are making waves on TikTok, starting with the Gen Z leaders.

1. Khaby Lame: The King of Simplicity (Gen Z)

Born in 2000, Khaby Lame is the epitome of Gen Z’s humor, with over 162 million followers. His no-nonsense reaction videos have made him an internet sensation, simplifying absurdly complicated life hacks with just a gesture and a look of exasperation. His minimalist approach has made him a global icon, with his content consistently striking a chord with viewers who value authenticity and simplicity.

Khaby’s most-watched video showcases his signature style: simplifying the overly complex task of opening a banana by demonstrating the simple way of peeling it from the bottom. This video perfectly captures why his straightforward, humorous take on everyday tasks has earned him millions of fans.

2. Charli D’Amelio: The Dance Queen (Gen Z)

Charli D’Amelio, born in 2004, is arguably the most famous Gen Z TikTok personality. With 157 million followers, she became a star after posting viral dance videos, particularly to trending songs. Her content is fun, energetic, and always in sync with the latest trends. Charli exemplifies Gen Z’s penchant for fast-paced, highly engaging content that often incorporates viral challenges and collaborative trends. Her success highlights the rise of internet fame and the potential for a single viral moment to transform a young creator into a mainstream influencer.

3. MrBeast: The Gen Z Entrepreneur (Gen Z)

Born in 1998, MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) is a standout Gen Z creator who has mastered the TikTok game, amassing 115 million followers with his elaborate challenges, philanthropy, and creative video stunts. His content is centered around generosity, as he often gives away massive amounts of money to participants or random strangers. MrBeast’s TikTok is an extension of his larger YouTube success, where his content is designed to entertain, surprise, and give back. His entrepreneurial mindset and attention to viral content make him one of the most influential creators on the platform.

4. Bella Poarch: The Lip Sync Legend (Gen Z)

Bella Poarch, born in 1997, quickly became a TikTok sensation after her lip-sync videos, particularly her iconic video to the song “Sophie Aspin Send,” garnered millions of views. With over 94 million followers, Bella’s account focuses on fun, catchy, and often humorous content, including lip syncs, challenges, and personal moments. Bella represents Gen Z’s love for creative self-expression through viral music and short, impactful videos that often go beyond mere entertainment to create cultural moments.

5. Addison Rae: The Gen Z Star with Hollywood Dreams (Gen Z)

Addison Rae, born in 2000, has over 88 million followers on TikTok and is a true Gen Z influencer. Initially famous for her dance moves and lip-sync videos, Addison has branched out into acting and music. She embodies Gen Z’s tendency to leverage social media success into other career opportunities, particularly in the entertainment industry. Her content is diverse, featuring lifestyle vlogs, dance videos, and collaborations with other influencers, showcasing her ability to evolve with the trends while staying true to her roots.

6. Kimberly Loaiza: The Rising Star (Gen Z)

Born in 1997, Kimberly Loaiza has become one of TikTok’s biggest stars, with 83 million followers. Known for her beauty and lifestyle content, it’s her ability to share relatable family moments, fashion tips, and trends that has really connected with her audience. Although she’s officially part of Gen Z, Kimberly is close in age to Millennials, which gives her a unique ability to appeal to both generations. She effortlessly blends her personal life with her brand, offering followers a sense of being part of her world. Whether it’s a casual outfit or a peek into her everyday life, her content resonates with fans across the age spectrum, making her one of the most engaging influencers on the platform.

7. Zach King: The Master of Illusion (Millennial)

Born in 1990, Zach King is the first Millennial to make an appearance on the list, and he’s certainly made his mark with his mind-bending “magic vines” and visual illusions. With 82 million followers, Zach has turned short-form video content into an art form, showcasing jaw-dropping tricks that leave viewers amazed. His videos demonstrate the creative potential of TikTok, where visual effects and innovation come together to captivate audiences. Zach’s success is a prime example of how Millennials have mastered the art of blending technology and storytelling, using the platform to craft visually compelling narratives that continue to spark wonder and creativity.

8. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: The Gen X Entertainer (Gen X)

Dwayne Johnson, born in 1972, represents a rare but important presence from Generation X on TikTok, with 77 million followers. The Rock has used TikTok to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life, promote his projects, and connect with his massive fan base. His content is a blend of fitness motivation, personal anecdotes, and brand promotion. While he is older than most of the top influencers, his ability to adapt to TikTok’s fast-paced environment demonstrates that even Gen X can thrive on the platform.

9. Dominik Lipa: The Gen Z Creator with a Diverse Fanbase (Gen Z)

Dominik Lipa, born in 2001, represents the new wave of Gen Z influencers. With over 77 million followers, his content spans various genres, from dancing and lip-syncing to more intimate vlogs. Dominik’s ability to evolve and create relatable content that resonates with his primarily young audience shows how TikTok is being used by Gen Z to share their lives in a creative and impactful way.

10. CZN Burak: The Chef Who Captivates the World (Millennial)

CZN Burak, born in 1996, is a Turkish chef who has gained a huge following on TikTok, amassing 75 million followers. His content features cooking tutorials with a signature twist—he engages his audience with his infectious personality, often smiling directly at the camera while preparing dishes. CZN Burak represents the Millennial generation’s flair for creativity and social media branding, using TikTok to promote his culinary skills and entertain a global audience.

As Gen Z continues to dominate TikTok, one question remains: Will the next generation, Generation Alpha (Gen A), take over the platform, or will they shift their attention to something new? With Gen A growing up in a world even more saturated with technology and new platforms, it will be interesting to see if they reinvent how we engage with social media or perhaps dominate a completely new platform we haven’t yet imagined. Only time will tell!

Millennials Reign on X – A Generational Breakdown of the Top 10 Most-Followed Twitter Accounts

February 13, 2025 By Emma

Let’s be real: X (formerly Twitter) has long been a digital battleground where celebrities, athletes, and politicians fight for influence, but there’s one group that’s leading the charge—Millennials. While the platform hosts users of all ages, the majority of the most-followed accounts belong to Millennials – those born between 1981 and 1996. So, let’s take a closer look at how the Millennial generation is holding court on X and what this means for the platform’s cultural landscape.

Of the top 10 most-followed accounts on X, Millennials dominate with a solid 60% of the list. This generation, known for their digital fluency and entrepreneurial spirit, has mastered the art of leveraging social media for everything from personal branding to global influence. But before we dive into the details, let’s look at how the generations break down among the top accounts.

Generational Breakdown of the Top 10 Most-Followed Accounts on X:

Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996): 6 accounts
Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964): 3 accounts
Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980): 1 account

With these stats in mind, it’s worth noting that, alongside the Millennial dominance on X, the relatively strong presence of Baby Boomers stands out. This contrasts sharply with platforms like Instagram, where Baby Boomers have virtually no representation in the top 10, and younger generations clearly take the lead. Interestingly, while Generation Z is represented by two accounts in Instagram’s top 10, they don’t have a single account in X’s top 10. This highlights an intriguing generational shift in social media: X seems to attract older generations like Baby Boomers, while Instagram leans toward Gen Z, with both platforms heavily influenced by Millennials.

With these stats in mind, let’s highlight the stars who have taken X by storm and explore how they’ve harnessed the power of the platform to engage their audiences.

1. Elon Musk: The Millennial-Gen X Hybrid

Elon Musk, born in 1971, belongs to Generation X by age, but his digital savvy and business ventures firmly place him in the Millennial conversation. With over 217 million followers, Musk’s influence spans not just social media, but industries like technology, space exploration, and electric vehicles. His mastery of Twitter’s real-time updates and his role in the evolution of the platform have made him a defining figure of the modern digital era.

2. Barack Obama: The Baby Boomer Who Speaks to Millennials

Barack Obama, born in 1961, is part of the Baby Boomer generation, yet his messages on X resonate deeply with Millennials. With over 130 million followers, Obama uses the platform to promote social causes, share thoughts on global events, and maintain his cultural relevance. His appeal to younger generations comes from his focus on hope, change, and unity—values that Millennials resonate with in today’s climate.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Millennial King of X

Born in 1985, Cristiano Ronaldo is the epitome of Millennial fame. With over 114 million followers on X, he has used the platform not just to showcase his world-class athleticism, but to establish himself as a global brand. His posts, which mix training, philanthropy, and family moments, highlight his immense commercial appeal. But Ronaldo’s influence doesn’t stop there—he’s also the most-followed person on Instagram, with over 674 million followers, cementing his position as a digital superstar. Ronaldo’s social media presence perfectly illustrates how Millennials have redefined celebrity, transforming it into a multi-faceted, media-savvy empire that reaches far beyond the sports arena.

4. Justin Bieber: Millennial Music Icon

With 109 million followers, Justin Bieber’s Twitter presence is an extension of his music career and personal life. Bieber, born in 1994, has been a fixture on X for years, sharing everything from music releases to personal reflections. His authenticity and connection with fans have allowed him to stay relevant throughout his career, making him one of the platform’s most powerful Millennial influencers.

Justin Bieber’s social media influence extends far beyond X. On Instagram, he boasts over 270 million followers, making his account the 10th most-followed on the platform, where he shares a blend of personal moments, family photos, and music updates. Additionally, he has a significant following on TikTok, where his fun, engaging videos and behind-the-scenes glimpses continue to connect with younger audiences. Bieber also commands a massive presence on YouTube, with over 70 million subscribers to his official channel, where he posts music videos, exclusive content, and personal reflections, further solidifying his status as a global icon across multiple digital platforms.

5. Rihanna: The Millennial Mogul

Rihanna, born in 1988, exemplifies Millennial entrepreneurship. With 108 million followers, she has used X to promote her music, beauty line, and humanitarian efforts. Her tweets blend personal moments with business updates, giving her followers a front-row seat to her multifaceted career. Rihanna’s ability to merge cultural influence with entrepreneurial success has solidified her place as one of the most-followed figures on X.

6. Katy Perry: A Millennial Superstar on X

Katy Perry, born in 1984, is another Millennial who has mastered the art of building a global brand through X. With 105 million followers, Perry uses the platform to engage with fans, promote her music, and share her personal life. Her fun, quirky personality shines through her posts, allowing her to maintain a loyal following and reinforce her position as one of the most influential Millennial figures on the platform.

7. Narendra Modi: The Millennial-Influenced Baby Boomer Politician

Though Narendra Modi was born in 1950, making him part of the Baby Boomer generation, his savvy use of X to connect with younger generations is undeniable. With 104 million followers, Modi has embraced social media as a vital tool for political campaigning and public engagement, ensuring his message resonates with a younger, tech-savvy audience.

8. Donald Trump: The Controversial Millennial-Focused Baby Boomer

Donald Trump, a Baby Boomer born in 1946, gained millions of followers during his political career, which peaked with his re-election as president for a second term. His use of X has been a major influence on shaping political discourse and media strategies, particularly with younger voters. His tweets, often controversial and direct, are part of what made him a divisive but influential figure on the platform, drawing attention from Baby Boomers, Millennial and Gen Z audiences alike.

9. Taylor Swift: The Millennial Queen of X

Taylor Swift, born in 1989, is the epitome of Millennial influence on X. With 94 million followers, Swift has used the platform to build an incredibly loyal fan base, sharing updates on her music, social causes, and personal life. Her ability to connect with her audience through both public moments and intimate reflections solidifies her status as one of the most powerful Millennial figures on the platform.

10. Lady Gaga: The Millennial Icon

Lady Gaga, born in 1986, rounds out the list with 82 million followers. Gaga has used X to promote her music, activism, and advocacy for mental health. Her posts often mix personal messages with professional milestones, keeping her followers engaged and connected to her brand. Her influence on X and culture at large makes her one of the most significant Millennial figures in the digital space.

As we can see, Millennials are clearly leading the charge on X. With 6 out of the top 10 most-followed accounts belonging to this generation, it’s clear that their influence on the platform cannot be overstated. Whether it’s through music, politics, or sports, Millennials have proven that they know how to use social media to engage, influence, and connect with a global audience. So, here’s to the Millennial dominance on X. With their authenticity, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural relevance, it’s safe to say that this generation has claimed their seat at the top of the digital world.

Millennials Are Dominating Instagram (Sorry, Gen X and Gen Z)

January 23, 2025 By Emma

Let’s face it: Instagram is basically the Millennial’s playground. With over 2 billion active users, Instagram has become the ultimate digital space for celebrities to shape culture, promote brands, and share their glamorous lives. But if we’re being real, when it comes to ruling the platform, it’s Millennials who have the largest share of the crown.

If you’ve ever wondered why it feels like every other Instagram post is a perfectly curated photo or a viral dance challenge, it’s because Millennials – those born between 1981 and 1996 – have mastered the art of this platform. Their influence stretches from pop culture icons to global entrepreneurs and activists. So, let’s take a look at the top 10 most-followed people on Instagram and see how much control this generation actually has over the platform.

When we break down the top 10 most-followed Instagram stars, it’s clear that Millennials are dominating. Of the top 10, a total of 6 are Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996), making up a solid 60% of the list! Gen Z is represented by 2 of the stars, with Kylie Jenner and Justin Bieber leading the charge for that generation. And while Gen X is represented by Kim Kardashian (born in 1980) and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (born in 1972), both of them have that undeniable Millennial appeal. Kim, in particular, may be Gen X by birth, but her social media savvy, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural impact firmly place her in the Millennial camp in terms of influence.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into the stars who are leading the charge on Instagram, starting with the top contender and his massive following.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Millennial King of Instagram

Born in 1985, Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most famous athletes in the world, and he’s also the most-followed person on Instagram. With a staggering 674 million followers, Ronaldo has transcended football stardom and become a global brand. He uses Instagram not just to share his training routines and family moments but to build his own empire, from advertising luxury brands to promoting his own CR7 fashion line. The influence he wields is so massive that it’s safe to say no one else is getting as much Instagram love as Ronaldo, who’s leading the pack.

2. Lionel Messi: Millennial Magic on the Field (and the ‘Gram)

Next up, we have Lionel Messi—born in 1987 and another Millennial powerhouse—who sits in second place with 505 million followers. Messi’s Instagram is a blend of football highlights, family life, and the occasional post celebrating his humble lifestyle. Just like Ronaldo, Messi’s fame stretches far beyond the sport he plays. But while Ronaldo is the Instagram king in terms of followers, Messi’s genuine and down-to-earth persona makes him beloved worldwide. The two soccer giants have found a perfect space on Instagram, capturing the attention of millions across the globe.

3. Selena Gomez: The Millennial Queen of Instagram

Selena Gomez—born in 1992—is the definition of Millennial stardom. With over 422 million followers, she’s one of the most influential people on Instagram. Selena’s posts range from glamorous photoshoots to mental health advocacy. She’s used her platform to speak about the importance of self-care, highlight important causes, and connect with her fans on a personal level. Oh, and let’s not forget her role as the face of many beauty and fashion brands. Whether she’s posting selfies, promoting her music, or simply sharing moments of her life, Selena has mastered the art of keeping her audience engaged.

4. Kylie Jenner: Gen Z? Maybe. Instagram Superstar? Definitely.

Here’s where things get interesting. Kylie Jenner, born in 1997, is officially a Gen Z. But with her over 395 million followers, she’s still managed to capture Millennial-level influence on Instagram. Kylie revolutionized beauty and social media, making “self-made” a buzzword when she built her cosmetics empire. Her Instagram is a mix of family photos, stunning selfies, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her business ventures. And while her business success may be a Gen Z feat, it’s fair to say that Millennials paved the way for social media moguls like her, so we’re still claiming some of the credit.

5. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Gen X, but a Millennial Favorite

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was born in 1972, which puts him in Generation X. But in case you haven’t noticed, he’s got that Millennial energy. With 395 million followers, The Rock is the epitome of how Gen X can merge with Millennial culture. His Instagram is a happy mixture of motivational posts, family moments, and his career updates. Whether he’s sharing his workout routine or promoting his tequila brand, Johnson has managed to position himself as a Millennial favorite despite being a Gen X-er himself. In fact, he’s even joked about considering himself a “Millennial trapped in a Gen X body”—and hey, we can get behind that.

6. Ariana Grande: A Millennial Superstar

Born in 1993, Ariana Grande is one of the most influential musicians of her generation. With over 376 million followers, her Instagram is an endless scroll of promotional posts, selfies, and love for her fans. What makes Ariana so special on Instagram is her ability to be both personal and glamorous, sharing everything from the latest album news to candid moments with her friends. She’s the perfect mix of relatable and untouchable—something that Millennials have perfected.

7. Kim Kardashian: Gen X, but with Millennial Appeal

Okay, Kim Kardashian is technically Gen X, born in 1980. But let’s not forget, she often refers to herself as a Millennial, too. With 358 million followers, Kim has turned Instagram into her own personal business platform. Her account is a masterclass in self-promotion, where she flaunts her family, fashion, and her ever-growing business empire. From her SKIMS brand to her advocacy work, Kim has solidified her spot as one of the most influential women of any generation. Even if she’s Gen X by birth, her Instagram game speaks Millennial—and she’s done more than enough to claim her place in the Instagram Hall of Fame.

8. Beyoncé: Millennial Royalty

There’s no question that Beyoncé is an icon. Born in 1981, she is at the very beginning of the Millennial generation. With 313 million followers, Beyoncé continues to set trends, from her music releases to her fashion choices. She’s the epitome of cool, confidence, and cultural impact, and her Instagram is a blend of artistic visuals and glimpses into her personal life. Beyoncé represents the Millennial ability to fuse pop culture with activism, and that’s why her following continues to grow.

9. Khloé Kardashian: A Millennial Mogul

Khloé Kardashian, born in 1984, is another Millennial on the list. With 304 million followers, she’s not just known for her reality TV presence, but also for her entrepreneurial ventures, including her fashion line and fitness brand. Like her sisters, Khloé has built an empire with Instagram as her primary tool for engagement. Whether she’s posting workout tips or family moments, Khloé’s authenticity resonates with her audience, and it’s why she continues to be a top influencer.

10. Justin Bieber: Millennial Music Sensation

Finally, we have Justin Bieber, born in 1994. With 294 million followers, Justin has been a staple on Instagram for over a decade. His account features a healthy mix of music promotions, family moments, and reflections on his journey to self-discovery. Bieber’s ability to share personal milestones has helped him maintain a devoted fanbase throughout the years. He may have started as a teen idol, but he’s grown into a respected artist—and his Instagram following is proof of his lasting influence.

While Instagram is home to a mix of celebrities from all generations, it’s clear that Millennials are running the show. From football players to musicians and beauty moguls, this generation has taken over the platform with authenticity, business savvy, and cultural influence. Of course, we can’t completely ignore Gen Z, who are bringing their own energy to the space, or Gen X, who have paved the way for many Instagram stars. But when it comes to follower counts and sheer influence, Millennials have earned their spot at the top.

So, let’s give it up for the generation that’s been killing it online: Millennial Instagram dominance is here to stay.