⏰ SHORT SUMMARY

• Social media influencers like TikToker Alix Earle are diving into philanthropy, spotlighting causes and charities, but nonprofits face risks as these partnerships can be short-lived, impacting branding and donor consistency.

• Twitch star Kai Cenat charged with inciting riot during a chaotic Union Square giveaway event, set to appear in court on August 18th.

• Jake Novak's rollercoaster journey from a TikTok misstep to a year of online turmoil, his cautious comeback revealing the highs, lows, and lessons of internet fame and the search for authenticity.

🚀 SOCIAL UPDATES

YouTube:

• YouTube brings high-quality 1080p option to the web.

Twitter (X):

• X is adding a new option to sort user posts based on engagement.

Meta:

• Threads app is rolling out a way to see your liked posts.

• Facebook and Instagram accused of ignoring reports on dangerous content.

• Meta will let you chat with AI bots with personalities, report says.

TikTok:

• TikTok Live introduces Gimme The Mic: a global music contest for U.S. creators with rewards and a shot at the global stage.

• TikTok’s algorithm will be optional in Europe.

• TikTok users can now watch a full episode of Peacock’s ‘Killing It’.

TikTokers are becoming philanthropists

TikTok's rising stars are harnessing their online clout for philanthropic endeavors. One notable example is Alix Earle, boasting a sizable following of 5.6 million on the platform, who recently kickstarted a scholarship program at the University of Miami's Herbert Business School. Joining this trend, other influencers have initiated scholarships and social justice campaigns. YouTube luminary John Green, commanding over 328,000 subscribers, has been advocating for global access to tuberculosis treatment since 2018. Yet, while creators amplify nonprofit causes, the risk looms of a fleeting alliance as their focus shifts, potentially leaving the causes they champion in a precarious position. (read more)

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Twitch Streamer charged: chaos…

Twitch sensation Kai Cenat finds himself in legal trouble after a chaotic giveaway event in New York's Union Square turned into a scene of bedlam. Alongside fellow influencer Fanum, Cenat organized a massive giveaway, drawing an eager crowd well before the scheduled start time. Videos posted earlier depicted Cenat boasting about PS5s and wads of cash, but the event took a tumultuous turn as chaos erupted upon his arrival. Cenat, whose immense Twitch following places him at the top of the streaming hierarchy, now faces charges of inciting a riot, with a court date set for August 18th. (read more)

From viral fall to resilient rise: Jake Novak's odyssey through online fame

Jake Novak, an aspiring TikTok star, faced a torrent of online scorn after a playful bid to join Saturday Night Live went awry. The viral video, despite garnering eight million views, led to a barrage of parodies and mockery that consumed Novak's life for a year. Unbeknownst to many, he never actually aspired to SNL, considering it an experimental venture. Novak's genuine demeanor clashed with the prevailing Gen Z vibe on TikTok, pushing his video into the algorithm's "wrong side," resulting in relentless trolling.

Retreating from social media, Novak grappled with the idea of a comeback. A year later, he reemerged with a new perspective in a raw, music-free video, buoyed by newfound support from fans. However, Novak remains cautious about the internet's unpredictable nature, wearing a mask to shield his identity in public and adopting aliases at restaurants. His journey illustrates the harsh realities of internet virality and the deeper emotional toll it can take. Amidst the chaos, Novak's story reflects the search for authenticity and genuine connections in a digital age. (read more)

CREATORS 👀

• MrBeast countersued for $100 million by Virtual Dining Concepts, alleging contract breaches and negative comments after his initial lawsuit on food quality.

• Twitch streamer Kai Cenat charged for inciting chaos in NYC's Union Square with giveaway offer.

• Jake Paul defeats Nate Diaz by unanimous decision.

• TikToker goes viral with horrific San Fransisco harassment story as she never feels “safe”.

• TikTok's Emily Mariko, known for microwave salmon recipe, weds boyfriend Matt Rickard.

• "Barbie" makes history as film surpasses $1B in box office sales.

EXTRA READS 📚

• From Twitter to X: Why Musk is resurrecting his favorite domain. (WSJ)

• A TikTok creator made a video that went viral. A few months later, she had a 6-figure contract for a mystery book series. (Insider)

• 14 top VC firms investing in creator economy and influencer startups. (Insider)