Who is Gen Z's favorite celebrity?

Who Gen Z Looks Up To in 2025

When it comes to celebrity influence, Gen Z isn’t just following fame—they’re drawn to authenticity, talent, and purpose. Recent data reveals who’s truly resonating with this generation, and the list blends music icons, breakout actors, and surprising newcomers making waves across culture.

At the top? Kylie Jenner. More than just a reality TV star, she’s built a beauty empire and remains a social media powerhouse. Love her or not, her influence on trends, beauty standards, and digital culture is undeniable.

Music continues to dominate, with Billie Eilish and Shawn Mendes leading the pack. Eilish’s whispery vocals and unapologetic individuality speak directly to Gen Z’s values, while Mendes pulls in fans with his heartfelt lyrics and consistent online presence.

On-screen talent like Millie Bobby Brown and Sabrina Carpenter hold strong appeal too. Brown, known for Stranger Things, has evolved into a style and activism icon. Carpenter, once a Disney favorite, now commands attention as a pop artist and actress with sharp cultural awareness.

Sports are breaking into the conversation as well—Coco Gauff, the young tennis phenom, isn’t just winning matches; she’s winning hearts with her confidence, outspokenness on equality, and maturity beyond her years.

And while influencers like Dixie D’Amelio may have started online, their reach now rivals traditional stars. Even Khalid, with his soulful voice and inclusive messaging, maintains a quiet but steady pull across streaming platforms.

What ties these figures together isn’t just fame—it’s relatability, visibility on TikTok and Instagram, and a sense of realness. Gen Z doesn’t just follow celebrities; they follow voices that feel like their own. In 2025, influence isn’t about awards—it’s about connection.