Renowned for its annual "Person of the Year" feature, TIME Magazine has now turned its spotlight to the digital realm with its inaugural TIME100 Creators list, released on July 9, 2025.
This curated ranking highlights 100 of the most influential English-speaking creators thriving on platforms like Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Substack. Notably, the selection process focused exclusively on individuals who built their careers natively on these digital platforms, excluding those who transitioned from traditional fields like television or journalism with pre-existing followings.
The list is thoughtfully divided into five categories: "Titans," "Leaders," "Entertainers," "Phenomena," and "Catalysts," reflecting the diverse impact these creators have on culture, business, and society. These are individuals whose work you’ve likely encountered, shaping trends and conversations across the globe.
Among the standout "Titans" — the heavyweights of the digital world — are names like Alix Earle, Sean Evans, Khaby Lame, Olivia Dunne, MrBeast, and Kai Cenat. These creators have not only amassed massive audiences but have also redefined entertainment, entrepreneurship, and engagement in the online space. Kai Cenat, for instance, graces the cover of the issue, underscoring his prominence as a Twitch streamer and content creator.
The remaining categories feature an array of talents whose influence spans leadership, humor, viral moments, and social change. To explore the full roster of "Leaders," "Entertainers," "Phenomena," and "Catalysts," you can dive into the complete list at https://time.com/collections/time100-creators-2025/.
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This initiative, led by TIME’s Lucy Feldman and informed by global correspondents and data from the creator marketplace #paid, underscores a shift in how influence is measured in the digital age. By focusing on homegrown digital careers, TIME celebrates the raw innovation and resilience of creators who’ve turned online platforms into their stages, proving that the internet is now a breeding ground for the world’s most impactful voices.
