Forbes has published its list of top-earning YouTubers of 2015, with minimum and maximum yearly earnings at $2.5 million and $12 million, respectively. While we take a deeper look at each of these shining social media stars, one thing is clear: YouTube is the face of modern entrepreneurship!
Acing the Forbes chart is Swedish comedian PewDiePie, who shares and comments on gaming videos on YouTube. He frequently refers to his fans as the "Bro Army," and in the same spirit, he ends his videos on a brofist note. Despite the mass appeal, his content has been reviewed as "goofy," "obnoxious" and "annoying." He was listed in Time's 30 most influential people on the Internet. PewDiePie has used his popularity to support charitable causes, donating to World Wildlife Fund and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. His video above has received over 40 million views!
Ian Andrew Hecox and Anthony Padilla, better known as Smosh, are school friends turned comedy partners who have drawn attention with their lip-syncing of theme songs of television series. The science fiction film Smosh, featuring the duo, was released this year. They've won many awards, including the most recent YouTube Star Of The Year at Seventh Annual Shorty Awards 2015. One of their most successful works to date is based on the Pokemon theme song.
3. Fine Brothers
The Fine Brothers (Benny Fine and Rafi Fine) are widely known for their React YouTube series and the sitcom MyMusic. People's reactions on viral videos are recorded in the React series, categorized in groups — namely, Kids, Teens, Adults and more. They've won accolades for their Kids React series at the Emmies, IAWTV and the 3rd Stream Awards.
4. Lindsey Stirling
Violinist, dancer, singer and composer Lindsey Stirling lists her music videos on her channel — and gets millions of likes. At the advent of her career, major record labels turned her down, but her efforts in the "tight-knit community" of YouTube led her to prominence. She collaborated with the non-profit organization Atlanta Music Project to provide underserved youth the chance to learn music. Stirling won the Artist of the Year for her song "Radioactive" at the YouTube Music Awards 2015.
Rhett James McLaughlin and Charles Lincoln Neal III, shortened as Rhett & Link, have sustained a long partnership — from being elementary school and university friends to being comedy partners. They run a number of YouTube channels, featuring commercials and music videos. They co-host the morning talk show Good Mythical Morning, where they shed insights on personal and news stories.
6. KSI
KSI started his YouTube career with commentaries on FIFA video games, branching to rap music videos centering on football themes. His debut album, Keep Up, is scheduled to release in January 2016. And that's not all. This multi-talented star also released his book, KSI: I Am A Tool, this year, which covers his journey over YouTube. He will be starring in a forthcoming film, Laid In America.
Makeup artist Michelle Phan gives unique and exciting makeup tutorials on her YouTube channel. You can emulate your favourite celebrities, including Lady Gaga and Angelina Jolie, with her tips. Her growing fame led her to work with brands like Lancôme and L'Oréal. Phan is also the author of Make Up: Your Life Guide To Beauty, Style, and Success — Online and Off. In 2014, she won Shorty Award for Best YouTube Guru. Ladies. Fret no more! Phan's trendy makeover ideas will keep you inspired. Dip into her world of colour and fashion!
8. Lilly Singh
Taking the number 8 spot is our South Asian YouTuber Lilly Singh, better known by her username Superwoman. Indian culture remains an integral element in her spoofs and jokes. Lately, she's also launched a singing career, embarking on her world tour, A Trip To Unicorn Island, this year. Her channel was ranked in the Top 100 Channels on New Media Rockstars. Singh is vivacious and hilarious. Steal a glance at Superwoman — she will tickle your funny bone for sure.
9. Roman Atwood
Roman Atwood has garnered attention through his public prank videos. In a competitive market, he has made his mark with extreme — even, arguably, tasteless — pranks that win the race precisely because they offend the most. His "Crazy Plastic Ball Prank" won him an award at the 5th Streamy Awards.
10. Rosanna Pansino
Rosanna Pansino is a chef who offers baking tutorials on YouTube. Her cooking show, Nerdy Nummies, is more than just about scrumptious delights. Her bubbly personality and creative and thorough visuals make for that appetizing package. She has also published The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook, which was featured on the New York Times bestseller list in November 2015. So, for all those looking to brush up their culinary skills in a geeky style, the answer lies in her channel!
Which of these sensational YouTube icons is your favourite? Share your comments below.
Main Image Photo Credits L–R: www.superfame.com, www.youtube.com and www.eurogamer.net
Sonia Malik
Author
Sonia writes on current affairs and pop culture. An English graduate from the University of Toronto, she identifies as a global citizen, feminist and nature lover. She will be ready to shake a leg to a peppy Bollywood beat any day.
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