Observed Signal · Oct 30, 2026 · Corporate Update · Source: Morning Consult · Impact: 2/5
The Most Popular Celebrities and Influencers in America
Morning Consult released its 'State of Influencer & Celebrity Marketing' report evaluating 90 public figures based on a survey of 6,283 U.S. adults conducted September 17 to 22, 2026. Denzel Washington ranked as the most popular celebrity with a net favorability score of +55, while Adam Sandler delivered the highest endorsement value with a net purchase lift of +32. Traditional celebrities heavily outperformed digital creators, with the top-ranked creator Sean Evans ranking behind 46 traditional celebrities.
The benchmark provides advertisers and marketers with empirical consumer sentiment data regarding celebrity versus influencer brand partnerships and purchase lift.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Denzel Washington ranks as the most popular celebrity in the U.S. with a net favorability of +55.
- Adam Sandler holds the most valuable endorsement with a net purchase lift of +32 (42% more likely vs. 10% less likely to use a brand).
- The survey was conducted from September 17 to 22, 2026, among 6,283 U.S. adults, with each of the 90 names evaluated by about 2,100 respondents.
- Top-liked creator Sean Evans scored a net favorability of +16, placing behind 46 traditional celebrities, while MrBeast was the most-named favorite influencer.
Connected Companies & Entities
“Morning Consult authored and published the survey report analyzing celebrity and influencer favorability and endorsement value.”
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
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