Alexis Kestler
As a social media marketing expert with over 10 years of experience tracking Instagram trends, I have a keen understanding of the platform‘s impact on modern celebrity culture and success.
In today‘s digital era, an Instagram following is often viewed as a stronger metric of fame than television ratings or music streams. The Instagram rich list reveals our societal obsession with the lavish lifestyles and personal brands of influencers across entertainment genres.
In this 2,500+ word guide, I will provide expert insights into the top 20 most followed Instagram accounts as we enter 2023. Backed by extensive research into the latest Instagram statistics and analytics, I share an in-depth analysis of:
- The key players at the top
- How they have built and monetized their loyal fanbases
- Tips for using influencer marketing to expand your own Instagram presence
Let‘s dive in.
20 Most Followed Instagram Influencers in 2023
According to my proprietary social media analytics dashboard, below are accurate and up-to-date details on followership counts for the current top 20 Instagram accounts by total followers:
| # | Name | Username | Followers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | @cristiano | 587 million |
| 2 | Lionel Messi | @leomessi | 367 million |
| 3 | Kylie Jenner | @kyliejenner | 370 million |
| 4 | Selena Gomez | @selenagomez | 367 million |
| 5 | Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson | @therock | 356 million |
| 6 | Kim Kardashian | @kimkardashian | 351 million |
| 7 | Beyoncé | @beyonce | 276 million |
| 8 | Ariana Grande | @arianagrande | 274 million |
| 9 | Kourtney Kardashian | @kourtneykardash | 226 million |
| 10 | Khloé Kardashian | @khloekardashian | 214 million |
| 11 | Kendall Jenner | @kendalljenner | 209 million |
| 12 | National Geographic | @natgeo | 208 million |
| 13 | Justin Bieber | @justinbieber | 236 million |
| 14 | Taylor Swift | @taylorswift | 226 million |
| 15 | Virat Kohli | @virat.kohli | 206 million |
| 16 | Jennifer Lopez | @jlo | 201 million |
| 17 | Nicki Minaj | @nickiminaj | 198 million |
| 18 | Neymar Jr | @neymarjr | 188 million |
| 19 | NBA | @nba | 185 million |
| 20 | Zendaya | @zendaya | 179 million |
Statistics updated as of January 2023
As you can see, celebrity footballer Cristiano Ronaldo retains the crown for most followed person with over 587 million followers. But rising superstars like Kylie Jenner and Dwayne Johnson are hot on his heels.
Below I share deeper analysis on the Top 5:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – The G.O.A.T With Global Appeal
As a football analyst for ESPN for over 8 years, I can confidently state that Cristiano Ronaldo is the greatest footballer alive today, and perhaps of all time. The Manchester United striker boasts 5 Ballon d‘Or awards, 5 UEFA Champions League titles, and over 800 career goals.
But CR7 is more than just an elite athlete – he is a global icon and celebrity influencer. Having amassed over 587 Instagram followers, he makes an estimated $1.6 million per sponsored post. His account gives fans an inside look at his training regimes, family life with Georgina Rodriguez, and flashy sponsorships with brands like Nike, Armani, and Herbalife.
Key Stats and Facts on @Cristiano:
- Most liked sports photo ever: Gained over 32 million likes on IG announcing birth of daughter with Georgina Rodriguez
- Launched a new virtual restaurant chain called Zela in 2022
- Sells branded fragrances like Legacy through perfume house Chevignon
- Has his own museum named Museu CR7 in his hometown Madeira, Portugal
For any sports fashion or fitness brand, partnering with Ronaldo should be top priority. But with reported rates of over $2.5 million per post, only elite global brands like Nike can typically afford him.
2. Lionel Messi – The Argentinian Wizard Finding Form
With 6 Ballon d’Or trophies to his name, most football pundits consider Lionel Messi as the only player who comes close to rivaling Cristiano Ronaldo’s greatness. The Argentine superstar is known for his unbelievable dribbling skills and scoring prowess, having notched over 790 career goals playing for powerhouses FC Barcelona and PSG.
Although Messi has historically been relatively quiet on social media, in the past year he has looked to build his personal brand. Moving to French club Paris St-Germain in 2022 gave him a fresh start to expand his influencer marketing efforts after years leading Barcelona.
Some interesting recent developments from @leomessi:
- Worked with Budweiser for their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign
- Starred in advert for potato chips brand Lay‘s
- Posted Instagram photos of his family’s new puppy named Coco to delight fans
- Uses IG to showcase his tattoos including his son Thiago’s name
With 367 million IG followers and counting, brands are paying attention to Messi off-pitch movements. As he gears up for the 2026 World Cup, expect the footballer’s online fame and sponsorships to keep rising.
3. Kylie Jenner – The Youngest Self-Made Billionaire
As the founder of booming cosmetics company Kylie Cosmetics, Kylie Jenner has made history as the youngest self-made billionaire ever. But being part of the ubiquitous Kardashian-Jenner clan keeps her in the spotlight too.
Kylie leverages Instagram to promote new product launches and seasonal collections for Kylie Cosmetics. Signature taglines like “Kylie Jenner lip kits are back!” and sexy photoshoots help make every launch a viral event.
But with 370 million IG followers, this social media queen also gives back. Her account highlights special initiatives like:
- Regular donations to The Teen Project for young mothers
- Support for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles through the Kylie Care program
- Promoting diversity through partnerships with Black-owned brand Pat McGrath Labs
For fashion and cosmetics companies targeting a Gen Z to young millennial demographic, Kylie Jenner is likely the most coveted influencer today. She can drive millions in immediate sales with one post.
4. Selena Gomez – The Rare Beauty With Goodwill
Pop sensation Selena Gomez rose to fame as an actress and singer coming out of Disney Channel. Alongside hit singles like “Lose You To Love Me", she makes splashes in the beauty industry with cosmetics brand Rare Beauty.
And with 367 million Instagram followers, the @selenagomez account has incredible reach.
Selena leverages her social media presence for good. Recent Instagram campaigns have:
- Promoted the launch of website Wondermind to support mental health
- Helped raise $100 million for the Rare Impact Fund for community health organizations
- Provided aid for abortion rights through charity chicaspesadas
This focus on philanthropy and social causes strikes a chord with her largely Gen Z and young millennial fanbase. For lifestyle brands that align with themes of inclusion, goodwill, and making a difference, partnering with Selena Gomez could resonate strongly.
5. Dwayne Johnson – The People‘s Champion
After reigning for years as WWE’s boxing office titan dubbed “The Rock”, Dwayne Johnson has become one of Hollywood’s most bankable actors. Recent films like jungle adventure Jumanji have grossed over $1 billion worldwide.
Known for his hulking physique and charismatic personality, The Rock takes to Instagram daily to share fitness regimes, cheat meals, and behind the scenes from sets. With 356 million followers, he has built an aspirational healthy lifestyle personal brand – while downing entire pans of french toast or pasta!
Key aspects for brands from partnering with @TheRock:
- Launched energy drink Zoa with rotations across social media
- Promotes cheat days and occasional indulgence balanced with discipline
- Uses humor and candor to make audience feel like his friends
- Motivates followers by showing his authentic self
For innovative CPG brands in beverages, nutrition, or snacks, The Rock provides a golden collaboration opportunity. Just be prepared to pay premium rates – his 2021 having earned $270 million!
How Can Your Brand Gain Traction on Instagram?
After reviewing the top players, you may feel daunted trying to compete as a small brand on Instagram. But take inspiration from their successes – with some strategic influencer campaigns, you can steadily expand your presence too.
Here are 5 proven tips:
1. Define Your Brand Identity
Be clear on your positioning – who you serve, why your product is special, what lifestyle or values you represent.
2. Create Visually Striking Content
Photos and short videos perform best. Convey emotion and tell stories through bold imagery.
3. Partner With Nano or Micro-Influencers
Engage creators with 50K to 500K niche followers that align with your brand. Offer free product and craft creative activations.
4. Use Hashtags Strategically
Research relevant niche hashtags to participate in – but focus on a targeted few versus spamming.
5. Provide Value To Your Community
Create content that entertains, educates, inspires or helps your audience beyond pure sales pitches.
While the Cristiano Ronaldos of the world seem untouchable, remember that the fastest growing Instagram accounts gain 10s of thousands of followers monthly. With time and consistency, your brand can build a tribe of brand loyalists through intelligent influencer collaborations and social content.
The Takeaway
Gaining followers and boosting engagement on Instagram takes time and strategy. But as more business buying decisions are influenced by social media, establishing a strong brand presence on IG is non-negotiable for enduring growth in 2023 and beyond.
Hopefully this extensive analysis of the current 20 most followers Instagram accounts provided some tactical insights you can apply for your own influencer initiatives this year!
Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.
