The creator economy reached a historic milestone in 2026. According to Forbes’ 2026 Top Creators list, the world’s 50 highest-paid social media stars earned a combined $1.02 billion between March 2025 and March 2026, marking the first time that collective earnings crossed the billion-dollar mark. The total represents a 20 percent increase from the $853 million earned by top creators in 2025 and an 80 percent increase from the inaugural ranking in 2022. Unveiled during the Cannes Lions Festival in France, the list highlights how digital creators have grown into major media businesses, attracting billions of followers and competing directly with traditional entertainment companies.For the fifth consecutive year, MisterBeast retained the top spot in Forbes’ annual ranking. The YouTube superstar, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, has raked in $300 million in the past year through his content empire, which includes Festables, Lunchables, Viewstats, and Amazon Prime’s Beast Games.Dhar Mann took second place with estimated earnings of $65 million, while entrepreneur and podcast host Steven Bartlett came in third with $52 million. Other familiar names in the top 20 include Markiplier, Rhett & Link, Charli D’Amelio, Drusky, iShowspeed, Mark Robert, Cody Sanchez, Khabi Lamm, Alix Earle, and Rebecca Zamolo.The 2026 list also welcomed several newcomers, reflecting the growing diversity of the maker economy. New entrants include chef and content creator Tineke “Tiny” Younger, School of Hard Knocks co-founder James Dumoulin, fitness creator Ashton Hall and Love Island USA star Leah Kateb. Their inclusion highlights that the opportunities in digital media now extend far beyond traditional entertainment categories.
Who has been included in the Forbes 2026 list of top creators?
- MrBeast – YouTube’s biggest creator known for large-scale challenges, philanthropy, and business ventures.
- Dhar Maan – Producer of inspirational short films and founder of Dhar Maan Studios.
- Steven Bartlett – Entrepreneur and host of The Diary of a CEO podcast.
- Markiplier – Gaming creator, filmmaker, and podcast host.
- Rhett & Link – The comedy duo behind Good Mythical Morning.
- Charli D’Amelio – Social media star turned entertainer and fashion personality.
- Drusky – Comedian known for viral sketches and celebrity collaborations.
- IShowSpeed – Livestreaming sensation famous for gaming and football content.
- Mark Robert – Former NASA engineer and science teacher.
- Cody Sanchez – Entrepreneur focused on small business ownership and investing.
- Jake Shane – Comedian, podcaster and social media personality.
- Brent Rivera – Entertainment producer known for pranks and challenges.
- Adam W. – Creator of globally popular visual comedy sketches.
- Jesser – basketball producer and sports entertainer.
- Khabi Lam – TikTok star known for silent reaction videos.
- Alix Earl – Lifestyle and beauty influencer.
- Mikayla Nogueira – Beauty creator and cosmetics entrepreneur.
- Stokes Twins – Twin producers known for large-scale stunts and challenges.
- Nick DiGiovanni – Celebrity chef and food creator.
- Rebecca Zamolo – Family-friendly YouTube creator and entrepreneur.
- Misterballen – Former Navy SEAL turned true crime storyteller.
- Drew Afualo – Commentator and podcaster known for social commentary.
- Halle Bailey – Producer and model known for comedy and fashion content.
- Ms. Rachel – Children’s teacher and one of the biggest names in children’s media.
- Alan Chikin Chow – Creator of the popular scripted series Alan’s Universe.
- Elite Gamer – Gaming creator and entrepreneur focused on Fortnite and streaming content.
- Marques Brownlee – Influential technology critic and YouTube personality.
- Nurse John – Nurse turned comedian with a global fan base.
- Tana Mongeau – Internet personality, podcaster and entrepreneur.
- Josh Richards – Producer and entrepreneur known for trending and comedy content.
- Dixie D’Amelio – Singer, influencer, and entrepreneur.
- Dani Austin – Lifestyle creator and founder of hair-care brand Divi.
- Nara Smith – Cooking and lifestyle creator known for her homely recipes.
- Lexi Rivera – Influencer known for challenges, pranks, and lifestyle content.
- Jacksepticeye – Irish gaming creator and founder of Top of the Morning Coffee.
- Tiny Younger – Chef and cookbook author who rose to fame through food ingredients.
- James Dumoulin – Financial educator and face of the School of Hard Knocks.
- Brooke Monk – Lifestyle and comedy creator with a massive online following.
- Hannah Stocking – comedy creator and actress best known for viral sketches.
- Erica Kullberg – former lawyer turned personal finance teacher.
- Ashton Hall – Fitness entrepreneur known for his viral wellness routine.
- Leah Kateb – Reality TV personality and entrepreneur.
- Katie Fang – Lifestyle creator best known for her popular “Get Ready With Me” videos.
- Anna Sitara – Travel and lifestyle influencer with millions of followers.
- Vivian Tu – Financial teacher known online as “Your Rich BFF.”
- Jordan The Stallion – Food creator known for recipes and restaurant ingredients.
- Anwar Jibawi – Comedy producer with a global audience.
- iJustine – Experienced technology creator covering gadgets and consumer electronics.
- Steven Hay – Comedian known for sketches inspired by Asian family culture.
- Logan Moffitt – Food creator who built a following through simple recipe videos.