Virtual influencers are making real money while their human counterparts remain on lockdown. The influencer marketing industry has shifted significantly during the pandemic, and the rise of virtual influencers has been accelerated by the pandemic. Because of lockdowns, some brands have been hiring the CGI celebrities instead of turning to human ones. Creative agencies have been developing digital avatars for partnerships with brands like Calvin Klein, Prada, and other fashion houses. One of the most well-known ones is Lil Miquela, who is “the highest earner” with 2.8 million followers and a fee of $8,500 per sponsored post. According to OnBuy, she will make about $11.7 million for her creators this year. (Bloomberg)
