Move over, Nepo Babies—there’s a new breed of high-earners in town: Nepo Pets! While the debate surrounding nepotism in Hollywood rages on, a recent study by Slingo shines a spotlight on a different kind of privileged class: celebrity pets with lucrative Instagram careers.
The study delves into the world of celebrity animals, analyzing their massive followings and the potential earnings generated from sponsored posts. The results are astonishing: many of these Very Important Pets (VIPs) are earning more than the average British person’s monthly salary. This isn’t just about cute photos; it’s a multi-thousand-pound-per-post business.
Leading the pack is Megan Thee Stallion’s French bulldog, Foe. Boasting over half a million followers, Foe’s estimated earnings per sponsored post reach a staggering £5,436 (€6,490). Close behind are Kylie Jenner’s Italian Greyhounds, Norman and Bambi, who command approximately £3,200 (€3,824) per post. Nina Dobrev’s dog, Maverick, sits comfortably in the middle, with an estimated earning of £3,908 (€4,670) per post.
These figures are particularly striking when compared to the average UK weekly wage. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Annual Survey for Hours and Earnings, the mean average UK weekly wage across all sectors is significantly lower. This stark contrast underscores the remarkable earning power of these social media-savvy pets.
The study highlights a fascinating trend: the undeniable influence of celebrity ownership on pet’s online success. These ‘Nepo Pets’ leverage the pre-existing fame of their human companions to build substantial followings and secure lucrative brand partnerships. While some may question the ethics of such wealth disparity, the numbers clearly indicate a booming new industry within the digital landscape.
Interestingly, the Slingo study also reveals a clear preference for canine companions over felines in the online celebrity pet sphere. Dogs seem to dominate the social media landscape, further solidifying their position as man’s (and brand’s) best friend.
So, the next time you scroll through your Instagram feed, spare a thought for the four-legged influencers earning more than most humans. The age of the Nepo Pet is upon us, and these furry celebrities are here to stay. This raises questions about the future of pet influencing, the evolving nature of social media marketing, and the blurring lines between human and animal celebrity.
