Instagram has grown into many things since it launched five years ago. Once a simple photo-sharing app, Instagram has evolved into something more than that: a way to keep in touch with old friends; a place to start new flings; a portfolio for creatives of all kinds to showcase their work; a battleground for social justice; and a shopping and e-commerce platform.
The app has even helped to create a new kind of celebrity. Instagram influencers have changed the way we scroll, the way we get entertained — even the way brands sell things to us. However, when it comes to the biggest names on Instagram, we see some fairly usual suspects
Cristiano Ronaldo
Followers: 500M
Just look how happy he is. But you would be, too, if you were Cristiano Ronaldo. And even moreso if you were Cristiano Ronaldo and you became the only human to break 500 million followers on Instagram. To put that into scale, if CR7’s ‘Gram were a country, it would be the third most populated in the world after China and India, and just ahead of the United States. Another day, another goal for Ronaldo.
Lionel Messi
Followers: 376M
From Ronaldo’s rival on the pitch to Ronaldo’s rival on the ‘Gram. The Argentine footballer has proven himself quite adept at social media as well.
Kylie Jenner
Followers: 372M
Kylie Jenner recently became the first woman to reach 300 million followers on Instagram. However, her status as a billionaire pale in comparison to that of being named the youngest self-made billionaire in 2019 by Forbes. But Jenner — of Kylie Cosmetics, Kylie Skin, Kylie Swim, and more — is still going strong. She remains most-followed woman in the world.
Selena Gomes
Followers: 358M
Gomez has been open about avoiding social media, but she has risen rapidly on the list of female celebrities with the most followers as of late. Her shoots, plandids and candids make excellent content for her feed, while Gomez uses her platform for good by talking openly about mental health and encouraging followers to educate themselves on the importance of mental fitness.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Followers: 348M
The number Five spot goes to Hollywood movie star, tequila mogul and future presidential candidate (?) The Rock. He has built his ever-increasing following by posting inspiring workout and life advice on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
