Felix Kjellberg, better known as PewDiePie on his YouTube channel, has been ranked by Forbes as the highest-earning celebrity on the online video-sharing platform, making over $12 million in the last year alone. It's not surprising that the Swedish-based video-game reviewer has raked up to so much in the past year, since many of his videos promote products by companies and his massive fan base owes to thousands of views per video, instantly making him millions.
However, his competition isn't all that far behind. Tied for second place are The Fine Brothers, Benny and Rafi Fine, as well as the comedy duo of Ian Hecox and Anthony Padilla, each bringing in $8.5 million in earnings, according to The India Times.
PewDiePie puts it simply for his fans when asked about his massive success, citing three major points - do what you love, work a tremendous amount, and find your audience. The 25-year-old star shares many things on his channel - from how to talk to girls, to Googling yourself and reading comments. One thing that he has maintained throughout his videos is how he has never lost sight of who his audience is - one that wants to be informed as well has have some fun while at it, The Examiner reported.
Kjellberg has also topped Variety's list of Famechangers, the digital world's 12 most influential stars. The 40+ million followers on his YouTube channel are only testaments to his influence. Among the other YouTube sensations that made Forbes' list is Chanteuse Lindsey Stirling, who has earned $6 million and also made the Famechangers list. Following her are comedians Rhett and Link with video-game commentator Olajide Olatunji tied with earnings of $4.5 million each. Self-taught makeup artist Michelle Phan comes in next at $3 million, while Comedian Lilly Singh, also called "Superwoman," and prankster Roman Atwood as well as Chef Rosanna Pansino tie up with $2.5 million each, according to Variety
Makes you want to go ahead and start your own YouTube channel, doesn't it? Well, there's still hope for you yet - as long as you follow Felix Kjellberg's simple three-point rule.
