Wait… That Person Isn’t Real?!
It’s 2 a.m., and you’re mindlessly scrolling through Instagram. Suddenly, a stunning girl pops up on your feed — flawless skin, effortless style, sipping coffee at a chic LA café. You double-tap without thinking because, honestly, she looks incredible.
But something feels… off. Her photos are just a little too perfect. As you scroll deeper, someone comments the shocking truth — she isn’t real.
Your brain freezes for a moment. How can someone who looks so human not even exist? Welcome to the fascinating world of animated influencers — digital beings blurring the line between reality and imagination.
So, What Exactly Are Animated Influencers?
Chances are, you’ve seen one — and probably didn’t even realize it. They show up in your feed, post selfies, travel shots, and even collab with real celebrities.
Animated influencers are digitally created characters — hyper-realistic virtual humans designed using advanced 3D animation and AI technology. They look, act, and even “live” like real people, building loyal fanbases across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
But these digital personalities are more than just pretty faces on a screen. They:
- Post daily lifestyle content just like real influencers
- Interact with followers through comments and stories
- Partner with global brands to promote products
- Build massive online communities of fans
- Earn impressive incomes through sponsorships and collaborations
Top Best Animated Influencers
These animated influencers have built massive fanbases and are earning real money — proving that virtual personalities can be just as powerful as human ones.
1. Lil Miquela (@lilmiquela)
Lil Miquela burst onto the scene in 2016 and is widely credited with kickstarting the global trend of digital influencers.
- 2.5 million Instagram followers
- Estimated annual earnings: $10 million
- Digitally portrayed as a 19-year-old Brazilian-American girl
- Based in Los Angeles
- Collaborations with major brands: Calvin Klein, Prada, Samsung
Lil Miquela’s posts cover everything from music and fashion to social activism. She even releases her own songs, adding another layer of realism to her virtual persona. Fans are deeply invested in her life — her friendships, her relationships, and her emotional ups and downs — because her creators have given her a lifelike depth that blurs the line between fiction and reality.
2. Qai Qai
Originally created by Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian as a doll for their daughter Olympia, Qai Qai has evolved into a confident and charismatic virtual influencer with a personality all her own.
- Represents family values and female empowerment
- Appears at major tennis and social events
- Known for her bold and inspiring attitude
Qai Qai’s rise to fame feels like watching a loved one succeed — she’s funny, outspoken, and driven, carrying the same energy and ambition as her famous family. Beyond being a virtual character, she’s become a symbol of self-belief and positivity, inspiring fans of all ages to embrace who they are.
3. Shudu (@shudu.gram)
When Shudu made her debut as the world’s first digital supermodel, the fashion world took notice. Created by Cameron-James Wilson in 2017, she quickly became a global sensation.
- Collaborates with top brands like Balmain and Fenty Beauty
- Celebrates and highlights Black beauty
- Embodies a flawless digital aesthetic beyond human perfection
- Challenges traditional standards in the modeling industry
Fashion magazines couldn’t get enough of her. Shudu isn’t just about beauty — she uses her platform to spark important conversations about diversity and representation. Brands love partnering with her because she represents the perfect blend of innovation and inclusivity, showing that virtual influencers can inspire change while redefining the future of modeling.
4. Bermuda
Bermuda is where digital drama meets creativity. Designed by the same team behind Lil Miquela, she’s the virtual rebel who keeps everyone on their toes.
- Known for her bold personality and unapologetic confidence
- Creates buzz-worthy storylines that captivate followers
- Brings an edgy, rebellious charm to the virtual influencer scene
- Keeps audiences hooked with her unpredictable online presence
Her feed feels like a mix between a digital soap opera and a social experiment. One day she’s stirring controversy, and the next, she’s entertaining fans with a new twist. Bermuda proves that virtual influencers don’t have to play it safe — they can bring as much attitude, excitement, and entertainment as any real-world celebrity.
5. Lu do Magalu (@magazineluiza)
Lu has been Brazil’s digital darling since 2009 — long before most people even knew what a virtual influencer was. With over 14 million followers across multiple platforms, she represents the retail giant Magazine Luiza.
Lu stands out for her friendly personality and approachable style. She explains tech products in simple, everyday Portuguese, making technology easy for everyone to understand. She’s collaborated with major brands like Samsung, Microsoft, and Chevrolet, but what makes her special is her genuine, relatable vibe.
She’s not trying to be a glamorous celebrity — instead, she feels like that tech-savvy friend who’s always ready to help. Lu perfectly shows how virtual influencers can build real, meaningful connections with customers.
6. Imma (@imma.gram)
Imma’s distinctive pink bob and futuristic vibe have made her one of Japan’s most recognizable virtual personalities. Created by Aww Inc., she beautifully combines Japanese culture with global fashion trends — a mix that makes her appealing to audiences everywhere.
With over 393,000 Instagram followers, Imma’s influence extends far beyond social media. She’s collaborated with major brands like IKEA and Gucci, and even appeared at Paris Fashion Week, blurring the lines between the virtual and real worlds.
Her unique style and creative expression have inspired countless fans and even real-life influencers to emulate her aesthetic, making her a true digital trendsetter.
7. Seraphine
Originally created by Riot Games for League of Legends in 2020, Seraphine quickly became more than just a video game character. She evolved into a full-fledged digital pop star with millions of fans across music and gaming communities.
Seraphine releases original songs, collaborates with real musicians, and maintains a strong presence on social media — just like any other real-world artist.
What makes her fascinating is how seamlessly she bridges the gap between gaming and mainstream entertainment. Seraphine proves that virtual characters can transcend their origins and become influential figures in popular culture.
8. Aitana Lopez (@fit_aitana)
Created by the Spanish company The Clueless, Aitana Lopez blurs the line between digital art and reality. With her lifelike appearance, many people often mistake her for a real person. She embodies the look of a 25-year-old woman from Barcelona and has become a rising star in the world of virtual influencers.
With over 255,000 followers on Instagram, Aitana focuses on fitness, fashion, and travel, sharing an aspirational lifestyle that feels authentic and relatable. She reportedly earns between €3,000 and €10,000 each month, showcasing the growing commercial power of AI-generated personalities. Aitana represents a new era where virtual influencers are almost indistinguishable from real humans, redefining the concept of online authenticity.
9. Milla Sofia
Finland introduced its own digital sensation, Milla Sofia, bringing the country’s signature clean and minimalist aesthetic to the virtual world. Designed in the elegant Scandinavian style, Milla’s social media presence exudes sophistication and calm—traits that resonate with her audience.
She has amassed 206,000 loyal followers and “lives” her virtual life in Helsinki, collaborating with various Finnish and European brands. Milla’s refined fashion sense, poised demeanor, and serene backdrops make her Instagram feed a reflection of timeless Nordic elegance.
10. Kyra (@kyraonig)
India stepped into the world of virtual influencers with Kyra, who debuted in January 2022 and quickly became a digital icon. With 255,000 Instagram followers, she has captured the imagination of young Indians through her vibrant posts and aspirational storytelling.
Calling herself a “dream chaser, model, and traveler,” Kyra partners with major brands like Amazon Prime Video and embodies the dynamic spirit of modern India. Her content celebrates culture, creativity, and youthful ambition, proving that virtual influencers can authentically represent diverse communities around the world.
11. Rozy (@rozy.gram)
Created by Sidus Studio-X in 2020, Rozy is South Korea’s first virtual influencer who embodies the essence of K-beauty and pop culture. With her flawless skin, stylish looks, and perfect charm, she captures the heart of South Korea’s beauty and entertainment world.
- Embraces the signature K-pop aesthetic
- Collaborates with top Korean beauty and fashion brands
- Represents modern Korean beauty ideals with elegance and confidence
12. Code Miko (@codemiko)
Developed by Youna Kang, Code Miko isn’t your typical virtual influencer — she’s a fully interactive, digital streamer who brings gaming to life in a whole new way. Known for her glitchy, cyberpunk-inspired persona, she connects with audiences in real time through her unique blend of humor, gaming, and technology.
- Focuses heavily on gaming and live-streaming
- Hosts interactive shows with fans and celebrity guests
- Features a distinct cyberpunk style
- Seamlessly blends gaming culture and influencer content
13. Kizuna AI
Debuting on YouTube in 2016, Kizuna AI became the pioneer of virtual influencers and proudly calls herself the world’s first virtual YouTuber. With her cheerful personality, gaming content, and relatable charm, she built a massive following and inspired an entire generation of VTubers who followed in her footsteps.
- Earned over 4 million YouTube subscribers
- Known for her fun, energetic personality
- Revolutionized the virtual influencer and VTuber movement
- Opened doors for new creators in digital entertainment
14. Daisy
Created by YOOX luxury fashion, Daisy redefines what it means to be a modern fashion model. This virtual style icon travels the world’s fashion capitals — without ever catching a flight — and showcases high-end designs with impeccable grace. She’s the ultimate digital fashionista, embodying luxury and innovation.
- Represents luxury fashion and digital elegance
- Attends virtual fashion events around the world
- Always stays ahead of global style trends
- Designed to promote YOOX’s brand in a modern, creative way
15. Any Malu
Any Malu proves that sometimes, being “fake” can feel more real than anything else. This Brazilian virtual artist embraced her fun, cartoonish personality and built a massive fanbase of over 3 million YouTube subscribers. Her bold, expressive animation style connects perfectly with viewers who grew up watching classic cartoons. It’s no surprise that Cartoon Network partnered with her — her content fits right in with their playful, youthful vibe.
16. Noonoouri (@noonoouri)
Originally from Germany but now living her best digital life in Paris, Noonoouri is hard to miss. With her big anime-inspired eyes and chic, doll-like looks, she’s become a global fashion icon. She’s collaborated with top luxury brands like Dior and Versace, blending high fashion with a unique virtual twist. But Noonoouri isn’t just about style — she also uses her platform to speak up about environmental and sustainability issues. Her creator, Joerg Zuber, designed her to show that virtual influencers can look fabulous while standing for something meaningful.
17. APOKI
Imagine a rabbit pop star — it might sound wild, but APOKI from South Korea makes it work beautifully. With over 1.7 million followers across her platforms, she’s captured the hearts of music fans worldwide. APOKI sings in Korean, Japanese, and English, creating tracks that blend K-pop energy with hip-hop and EDM vibes. Her cute bunny persona adds to her charm, but her real power lies in her talent — she even performs in virtual concerts, proving that the future of pop might just have long ears and digital roots.
18. Lechat
Lechat discovered early on that combining her love for K-pop with her signature cat ears was the perfect recipe for TikTok fame. Her energetic dance videos quickly go viral, and her down-to-earth interactions make fans feel like they’re chatting with an old friend.
For anime lovers and K-pop enthusiasts, Lechat’s charming personality and playful style create the perfect mix of fun, sweetness, and authenticity.
19. Ion Gottlich
Ion takes cycling more seriously than most people take their 9-to-5 jobs — but that’s exactly what makes him so entertaining. With his muscular physique and larger-than-life presence, every bike ride feels like a stage from the Tour de France.
Despite his intense dedication, Ion keeps things lighthearted and fun. His unique blend of humor, fitness tips, and over-the-top heroic energy makes him a fan favorite for both cyclists and casual viewers.
20. B (Short for Bee)
B may be small, but she’s on a big mission — to protect the planet. This charming “beenfluencer” uses her platform to promote eco-friendly living and raise awareness about bee conservation.
Partnering with green brands like Bumble Fit and Guerlain, B delivers a powerful environmental message wrapped in cuteness and creativity. She’s not just adorable; she’s a buzzing force for positive change.
How Are These Digital People Even Created?
Creating animated influencers is like producing a never-ending movie — one that unfolds daily on Instagram and other platforms. It’s an incredible blend of technology, marketing, and art that only became possible in recent years.
Who Makes These Virtual Stars?
Behind every digital influencer is an entire team of creative minds working tirelessly to bring them to life. Developing one digital persona can take several months and involves:
- 3D Artists: Spend 3–6 months designing the character’s face, body, outfits, and every little detail that makes them look real.
- Programmers: Build the AI systems that allow these characters to think, respond, and interact naturally.
- Writers: Craft their personalities, tone of voice, and detailed backstories that make them relatable to audiences.
- Social Media Managers: Handle their daily posts, comments, and collaborations — just like any real influencer.
- Marketing Experts: Plan and execute high-value brand partnerships that connect these digital personalities with top global brands.
Most virtual influencer teams consist of 10–20 full-time professionals dedicated solely to managing one character’s identity, growth, and public image.
Why Are Brands Going Absolutely Crazy for Animated Influencers?
Brands started noticing the potential of digital influencers around 2018 when Lil Miquela gained millions of followers and engagement — all without any real-world drama or controversy. That’s when the industry realized how powerful these virtual figures could be.
Companies love animated influencers because they:
- Offer complete control over messaging and brand image.
- Have zero risk of scandals or negative publicity.
- Can be active 24/7, engaging audiences without rest.
- Can appear instantly anywhere in the world, no travel needed.
- Never get sick, tired, or demand breaks.
One of the first major collaborations came from Calvin Klein in 2019, featuring Lil Miquela alongside real-life model Bella Hadid — a campaign that went viral worldwide. After that, countless other brands followed, eager to tap into the power, consistency, and reach of these virtual stars.
Do Animated Influencers Really Make Money?
The money part of this whole thing is unbelievable — and it’s changing how brands think about marketing forever.
Let’s start with the numbers: brand partnerships bring in around $10 million a year for Lil Miquela, the most famous virtual influencer on the planet. That’s actually more than what many real-life mega influencers earn in the same timeframe.
How Much They Really Cost:
Creating and managing an animated influencer isn’t cheap — but the returns can be massive.
- Lil Miquela’s rates: $10,000 to $50,000 per sponsored post.
- Human mega-influencers: $100,000 to $250,000 per post.
It’s easy to see why brands are investing more in animated personalities. They offer the same (or better) engagement at a fraction of the cost, with zero risk of scandals or scheduling conflicts.
It’s no surprise that Brud, the company behind Lil Miquela, secured $125 million in funding — investors clearly saw the potential for a whole new kind of influencer economy.
Lu from Magazine Luiza is another big success. She generates millions of dollars in direct sales because her followers don’t just like her — they trust her. Her engagement rates are often higher than human influencers, proving that audiences respond just as strongly (if not more) to virtual characters.
What Companies Are Working With Animated Influencers?
This trend isn’t limited to social media experiments — it’s now a major part of global marketing.
- Calvin Klein x Lil Miquela — The campaign that broke the internet. Featuring Lil Miquela alongside Bella Hadid, it reached over 100 million people in just a few weeks and got everyone talking about the bold new approach to influencer marketing.
- Balmain x Shudu — A groundbreaking luxury fashion collaboration that featured a completely digital model wearing real clothing. It proved that animated influencers could hold their own in high-end campaigns.
- Prada x Multiple Virtual Models — An entire campaign with no human models at all. Prada went all in on digital, showing how technology and creativity can merge to redefine brand storytelling.
- Lu from Magazine Luiza — She’s more than just a face of the brand. Lu actually interacts with followers, explains products, answers questions, and drives real sales — essentially becoming the ultimate digital brand ambassador.
Prolific Studio’s Role in the Future of Influencer Marketing
At Prolific Studio, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful animated influencers can be. Our team collaborates with digital creators and brands to design lifelike 3D and animated personalities that connect, engage, and sell.
From realistic character animation to motion graphics that bring virtual influencers to life, Prolific Studio helps businesses step confidently into the next era of marketing — where creativity meets technology and imagination becomes influence.
Animated influencers aren’t just a passing trend — they’re the future of digital branding, and the numbers prove it.
What’s the Future of Animated Influencers?
This is only the beginning — animated influencers are on the verge of transforming the digital world in ways we can hardly imagine.
Very soon, technology will advance to a point where the line between real and virtual personalities disappears completely. Imagine AI-generated influencers so realistic that it’s nearly impossible to tell them apart from humans. These digital stars will dominate social media, entertainment, and even politics.
What’s Next:
- Every major brand will have its own custom virtual ambassador.
- Fans will interact with digital influencers in real time through social media, livestreams, and immersive events.
- Virtual concerts, fashion shows, and brand launches will feature lifelike animated personalities.
- Integration with VR platforms and the metaverse will allow users to experience deeper, more personal connections with their favorite digital creators.
Businesses have already started investing millions into this movement. Tech giants like Meta and Google are developing advanced tools that make creating hyper-realistic digital avatars faster, cheaper, and more accessible.
We might soon see animated influencers starring in blockbuster films, hosting talk shows, or even stepping into leadership roles in digital communities.
Prolific Studio, a leading 3D animation and design company, is already collaborating with influencers and brands to bring these virtual personalities to life. With expertise in animation, storytelling, and cutting-edge technology, Prolific Studio helps creators and companies shape the next generation of digital influence — where imagination meets reality.
