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10 Celebrities Who Make More from YouTube Than Hollywood

Think A-list actors are raking in the big bucks? Think again. For several well-known faces, fame—and fortune—is now being driven more by YouTube than their Hollywood projects. With massive subscriber counts and diversified revenue streams, these creators are turning views into serious income, often eclipsing their traditional careers. Whether you’re chasing ad revenue or brand deals, it’s clear that YouTube earnings are rewriting the rules of fame. Below are ten celebrities who’ve harnessed the power of YouTube to out-earn their old careers—sometimes by quite a bit.

1. MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson)

YouTube earnings - MrBeast - Good Morning America

Image Source: YouTube/Good Morning America

MrBeast isn’t just a viral sensation—he’s a billionaire content titan. With over 413 million subscribers and videos that hit hundreds of millions of views, his YouTube earnings are staggering. Between YouTube and all of his partnerships, he’s raking in around $700 million a year. Beyond ad revenue, his empire includes MrBeast Burger, Feastables, and philanthropy. He’s even launched a major Amazon Prime show, showing how deep digital fame can go.

2. Dhar Mann

Dhar Mann skyrocketed to fame with feel-good, moral-driven videos that dominate social media feeds. Ranked #2 on Forbes’ Top Creators list in both 2024 and 2025, his YouTube earnings reached an estimated $50 million this year. He’s now partnered with major production outfits like Studio71 and CAA, but his digital income dwarfs any traditional media earnings. Mann’s story proves that emotionally resonant content can be extremely lucrative.

3. Sam & Colby

Paranormal explorers turned content moguls, Sam and Colby, have amassed around 14 million subscribers. They generated $20 million in annual revenue thanks to their YouTube presence, merchandise, and media expansion. That figure eclipses many TV reality stars and niche celebrity incomes. Their success showcases how one niche—haunted investigations—can become a digital empire well off the Hollywood radar.

4. PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg)

As one of YouTube’s earliest megastars, PewDiePie still earns spectacularly. With 110 million subscribers and 29.5 billion views, his YouTube earnings have reached millions per year even as he stepped away from mainstream media. His 2014 income peaked near $12 million. That puts him well within striking distance of many traditional film and TV personas, solidifying his place as a digital billionaire in all but name.

5. Lilly Singh

YouTube earnings - Lilly Singh

Image Source: YouTube/Lilly Singh

Once a YouTube sketch-comedy standout, Lilly Singh translated her platform into late-night hosting gigs—but her success launched on YouTube. With over 14.7 million subscribers, she earned $10.5 million in a peak pre-TV year. While her NBC series showed up on broadcast, her YouTube revenue remains a cornerstone of her career. Her earnings underscore that digital beginnings can offer bigger rewards than traditional outlets.

6. Jacksepticeye (Seán McLoughlin)

Top Irish YouTuber Jacksepticeye has carved a strong career with gaming and charitable livestreams. He earned $27 million in 2023 and $18 million in 2024, all from digital efforts—not blockbuster films. His annual “Thankmas” streams alone raised over $10 million for charity, capping off a digitally driven income that puts many screen actors to shame.

7. Philip DeFranco

Philip DeFranco has anchored pop culture commentary on YouTube for over a decade. While he’s not a Hollywood actor, his media-savvy videos bring in consistent revenue through ads and sponsorships. His brand deals and advertising revenue regularly exceed what online news show hosts made in traditional media. With over 2 million subscribers and 30 million views monthly early in his run, YouTube earnings are his core business.

8. Will Smith

Yes, the Fresh Prince himself is earning big on YouTube too. His channel taps into his star power, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses and motivational content. Monetized via ads, merch, and sponsorships, he’s turned his celebrity into a multi-platform income source. While his Hollywood roles still pay well, YouTube provides a direct-to-fan channel with powerful earnings potential.

9. Kylie Jenner

Reality TV turned cosmetics mogul Kylie Jenner also monetizes YouTube by boosting her brand. She combines ad revenue with glitzy product launches and merch, driven by her massive social media presence. Her channel promotes Kylie Cosmetics, making YouTube not just entertainment—but a primary marketing platform. Product promotion has transformed her channel into a money-maker that competes with her TV earnings.

10. Butch Hartman

YouTube earnings - Butch Hartman

Image Source: YouTube/Butch Hartman

Animation legend and creator of Nickelodeon hits, Butch Hartman, now runs a popular YouTube channel. With content ranging from cartoon commentary to tutorials, he taps into brand deals and ad revenue. That channel income rivals—and in some cases surpasses—what traditional animators earn through TV contracts. Hartman exemplifies how industry creatives can pivot to digital and come out ahead.

The New Rulebook for Fame

YouTube has transformed how fame pays—and fast. These creators demonstrate that YouTube earnings can outshine Hollywood salaries, offering autonomy and audience connection. The platform’s flexibility—ads, merch, sponsorships—lets talents build lucrative ecosystems beyond contracts. For anyone chasing fame, these 10 examples offer proof: sometimes your biggest paychecks come from views, not box offices.

Which one of these creators surprised you the most? Have you subscribed to any and noticed their impact? Let us know in the comments below!

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5 Musicians Who Went Bankrupt—And Then Came Back Stronger

Going bankrupt is often seen as a career ender—especially for artists whose livelihoods rely on public image. But these musicians’ bankrupt stories prove financial hardship doesn’t mean artistic defeat. After hitting rock bottom, they made bold comebacks that reshaped their careers and reputations. Whether through rebranding, deep resilience, or sheer talent, these artists bounced back better than ever. Here are five musicians who went bankrupt—and then came back stronger.

1. MC Hammer: From Diamond Hits to Debt and Digital Redemption

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Image Source: YouTube/935 KDAY

MC Hammer once earned massive fame and wealth, with albums like Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ’Em earning diamond status. But by 1996, he faced staggering debts—reportedly over $13 million—and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. His lavish lifestyle and large payroll sank his fortune fast. Yet Hammer didn’t fade away—he shifted focus, embraced gospel, and reinvented himself as a tech entrepreneur and media personality. Today, his net worth has rebounded to around $1.5 million, showing true reinvention after financial collapse.

2. Toni Braxton: Deep Debt to Chart-Topping Redemption

 

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R&B icon Toni Braxton declared bankruptcy twice—first in 1998, then again in 2010. She owed millions in health-related debts, studio expenses, and unpaid taxes. Despite this, she returned with hit albums like Pulse and leveraged reality TV to reconnect with fans. Her comeback saw Grammy awards and sold‑out tours that overshadowed her financial past. Braxton’s resilience proves that even after musicians go bankrupt, artistic output can pave the path back to success.

3. Mick Fleetwood: From Fleetwood Mac Fame to Financial Missteps

Mick Fleetwood’s wild ‘70s rockstar lifestyle caught up with him—he filed for bankruptcy in 1984, owing nearly $3.7 million. Substance abuse and overspending led to serious debt, threatening to derail Fleetwood Mac’s legacy. But Fleetwood cleaned up his act, embraced sobriety, and helped revive the band’s popularity. He’s now a respected elder statesman in rock, still touring and earning respect and revenue. His comeback reminds us that even musicians bankrupt can reclaim not just financial stability but artistic integrity.

4. Lady Gaga: Betting Everything—and Nearly Losing It All

 

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Before Bad Romance catapulted her career, Lady Gaga spent heavily on staging her breakthrough Monster Ball tour in 2009—so much so that she later revealed she was “technically bankrupt.” Facing debts that Georgia government confiscated, she had just $3 million left. But Gaga doubled down, refining her spectacle and sound to world‑dominating results. Soon, she signed a $40 million deal with Live Nation and became one of the highest‑earning performers. Her story shows how risk, vision—and a dash of bankruptcy—can fuel an artist’s rise.

5. Patrick Wolf: Bankruptcy, Addiction, and a Musical Rebirth

 

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Avant‑pop artist Patrick Wolf’s journey is less known but equally powerful. In 2017, he filed for bankruptcy triggered by unpaid taxes and the loss of his manager. Around the same time, he battled addiction and nearly lost his place in music. But with support from Patti Smith, Yoko Ono, and a renewed creative spark, Wolf rebounded with the new album Crying the Neck—his first in 13 years—reflecting personal trials and recovery. His comeback highlights how hitting bottom can catalyze a profound artistic reset.

When Bankruptcy Sparks Reinvention

Each of these five musicians’ bankrupt stories starts with financial collapse—whether due to overspending, personal issues, or risky career bets. Yet none ended there. Instead, they turned adversity into opportunity: exploring new genres, revamping personal brands, or doubling down on creative control. Their stories are more than mere comebacks—they’re lessons in resilience, reinvention, and the power of persistence in the music industry.

Do you have a favorite artist whose comeback inspired you? Share their story below—we’d love to hear your picks!

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What These 5 Famous Siblings Earn Separately

These 7 Singers Own Brands You Probably Use Without Knowing It

What These 5 Famous Siblings Earn Separately

Ever wondered which sibling in a famous duo earns more—or by how much? When talent and fame run in the family, it’s natural to wonder how their bank accounts compare. By digging into publicly reported net worth and earnings, we can uncover surprising clues about individual paths to success. From tennis to Tinseltown, each sibling charts a unique course—sometimes with wildly different paychecks. Let’s break down what these famous siblings’ earnings look like, one pair at a time.

1. Serena Williams vs. Venus Williams

famous siblings earnings - Serena and Venus Williams - TODAY

Image Source: YouTube/TODAY

There are few sibling pairs that are more famous than the Williams sisters, Serena and Venus. However, it may surprise you to find out that one sister edges the other out when it comes to finance. At the time of writing, Serena Williams’ estimated net worth is between $300 and $340 million. This has stemmed from her earnings as a career pro tennis player, as well as major endorsements and investments. Venus, on the other hand, only has a net worth of about $95 million.

2. Chris Hemsworth vs. Liam Hemsworth

famous siblings earnings - Liam Hemsworth - Team Coco

Image Source: YouTube/Team Coco

Liam and Chris Hemsworth are both known for their roles in Hollywood. Chris, the Marvel star, has been able to build a net worth of $130 to $150 million. This is largely due to his blockbuster roles playing Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Liam, who is best known for his role in The Hunger Games, has a net worth that hovers around $25 million, which is substantially less than his brother’s. It proves that franchise deals can make all the difference.

3. Gigi Hadid vs. Bella Hadid

famous siblings earnings - Gigi Hadid - The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Image Source: YouTube/The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Gigi and Bella Hadid are model siblings who have made a lot of money with various gigs and partnerships over the years. Unlike many of the siblings on this list, their net worths are much closer. Gigi Hadid’s net worth sits around $30 million, which only slightly edges out Bella’s ($25 million). This boils down to annual earnings. Gigi simply makes a little bit more than Bella year-to-year.

4. Beyoncé Knowles vs. Solange Knowles

famous siblings earnings - Solange Knowles - The Daily Show

Image Source: YouTube/The Daily Show

Beyoncé is one of the most famous people in the world. Often referred to as “Queen Bey,” many people might be surprised to find out that she isn’t an only child. In fact, her sister, Solange, has a music career of her own. With Beyoncé’s insane success, she has been able to amass a net worth of about $800 million. Solange, on the other hand, has an estimated net worth of about $8 million. That’s a staggering difference!

5. Willow Smith vs. Jaden Smith

famous siblings earnings - Willow Smith - Rick Beato

Image Source: YouTube/Rick Beato

Will Smith’s children are often compared to each other. They have the closest net worth gap out of any other pair on this list, though. Jaden Smith has an estimated net worth of about $8 million. This stems from acting roles, music, and brand ventures, as well as some income from being an influencer. His sister Willow has been able to make a significant amount of money too (a net worth of about $10 million) from music, acting, and her co-host role on Red Table Talk with her mother Jada Pinkett-Smith.

Money Paths May Vary, But Family Ties Remain Strong

These famous siblings’ earnings show just how divergent career outcomes can be, even within the same family. Whether via sports, modeling, music, or film, each sibling’s success is shaped by choices, opportunities, and personal drive. Next time you hear “famous siblings,” remember: fame doesn’t distribute wealth evenly. It all comes down to individual paths—even shared roots can lead to very different financial futures.

Were you surprised by any of these earnings gaps? Tell us which celebrity sibling pair you’d like to learn more about next in the comments!

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These 7 Singers Own Brands You Probably Use Without Knowing It

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These 7 Singers Own Brands You Probably Use Without Knowing It

Next time you spot Rare Beauty in your makeup stash or sip on a stylish iced matcha, you might be using a brand launched by your favorite singer. From beauty lines to fashion labels, many stars have quietly entered everyday markets, making it easy to miss their involvement. Knowing which singers own brands you already buy not only adds a fun twist to shopping, but it also shows how artists are branching into savvy business ventures. These seven singers own brands that you probably use without even realizing it. Let’s dive into who’s behind the scenes—and what makes their brands worth a second look.

1. Selena Gomez – Rare Beauty

 

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Selena Gomez founded Rare Beauty in 2020 to promote self-expression and mental health awareness. The brand offers inclusive, easy-to-use makeup and even supports the Rare Impact Fund, which has raised over $13 million so far. Products include universally flattering foundations and feel-good formulations. Fans appreciate the authentic connection Gomez brings to the brand, making it more than a celebrity gimmick. If you own their liquid blush or mascara, you’ve definitely been touched by Selena’s vision.

2. Rihanna – Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin

 

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Rihanna revolutionized the beauty industry with Fenty Beauty in 2017, launching inclusive foundations for every skin tone. Expanded into Fenty Skin, the brand features cruelty-free, vegan products with refillable packaging. Fenty products are known for blending quality, innovation, and Rihanna’s bold influence. You might not know you’re using a singer’s creation, especially with the way Fenty has reshaped the cosmetics landscape. Simply put, Rihanna’s brands are as empowering as her music.

3. Justin Bieber – Drew House

 

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Justin Bieber started Drew House in 2018, offering laid-back apparel with a signature smiley “Drew” logo. The fashion line includes hoodies, tees, and accessories in a skater-meets-streetwear vibe. Prices range from budget-friendly to mid-tier, making it accessible yet stylish. If you’ve worn comfy loungewear or a bright tee with that playful logo, you’ve been wearing Bieber’s vision. It’s casual—and surprisingly easy to find in mainstream boutiques.

4. Lady Gaga – Haus Laboratories

 

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Haus Laboratories, launched by Lady Gaga in 2019, offers vegan, cruelty-free makeup that celebrates creativity and self-expression. From bold eyeliners to colorful highlighters, the brand embodies Gaga’s unapologetic artistry. It’s built for anyone wanting to stand out—no stage required. Products are both performance-ready and accessible for everyday users. When you rock that glitter liner or matte lipstick, you’re channeling a little Haus flair.

5. Christina Aguilera – Christina Aguilera Fragrances

 

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Christina Aguilera extended her brand with Christina Aguilera Fragrances, launched in 2008 via Procter & Gamble, and earned some of the top-selling scent titles. The line grew to include lotions and body sprays, with consistent acclaim in Europe. If you’ve ever bought a bottle of “By Night” or “Simply Chic,” you’ve been part of Aguilera’s glamorous fragrance world. Fans know these scents embody her bold, feminine style.

6. Nicki Minaj – Pink Friday Nails & Fragrances

 

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Queen rapper Nicki Minaj debuted her Pink Friday fragrance in 2012 and later extended it to press-on nails under Pink Friday Nails and vegan sneakers in 2024. Her brand world is bold, glamorous, and unapologetically pink—just like her persona. Whether it’s a bottle of her signature scent, a set of nails, or stylish sneakers, each product reflects Nicki’s flair. Chances are, it’s already in your rotation without you linking it to her.

7. Jennifer Lopez – JLo Beauty & Lifestyle Labels

 

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Jennifer Lopez has built a lifestyle empire that includes JLo Beauty, fragrances, clothing lines with Kohl’s, and even a packable spritz brand called Delola. Her skincare items emphasize glow and hydration, echoing her signature style. If you’ve purchased makeup products like the JLo Beauty Glaze drops or one of her perfumes, you’re already living that JLo life. Her brands reflect her multifaceted persona, giving fans everyday access to her touch of glam.

Why It Matters When Singers Own Brands

When singers own brands, they extend their voice beyond music into lifestyle, with a personal stamp you can actually buy. These celebrities invest deeply in their products, from formula to messaging. That authenticity is why many products hit mainstream popularity. Next time you pick up a lipstick or a hoodie, take a closer look—you might just spot a singer’s signature in your cart. These brands aren’t just endorsements—they’re creative statements.

Which singer-owned brand have you tried or want to try? Share your favorites (or hidden gems) in the comments below!

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