They are the most followed Instagram accounts by the app’s “roughly one billion” monthly active users, ranging from Kylie to Kim, Cristiano to Ariana.
As we approach the end of the year, we take this chance to reflect on the truly significant events of the previous year: Shared memories with friends and family. We spend our time doing what we enjoy. And, of course, who managed to gain the most Instagram followers. What is the solution? Of course, there’s the app and the usual suspects.
At the end of 2021, we’ve compiled a list of the world’s top ten most-followed Instagram accounts — the ones that seem to keep us logging in and returning for more.
The world’s most followed Instagram accounts as of July 2022:
1. Instagram- @instagram
Followers: 516 million
Because of whatever reason, Instagram’s official statement has the most followers on the entire platform, with 450 million at press time. The last of its nearly 7,000 posts feature a variety of the product’s popular, creative, or attention-worthy creators, such as actress Rachel Zegler, Insta-famous mini-pig Pua, or Lisa of BLACKPINK herself.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo- @cristiano
Followers: 453 million
Here’s a guy who had quite the year, didn’t he? Since his grand comeback to Manchester United, Ronaldo’s star (and following) has continued to rise. The first individual to reach 200 million followers on the platform, he should be crossing that 400 million mark by early 2022.
3. Kylie Jenner- @kyliejenner
Followers: 345 million
Despite just falling behind Leo Messi in the most followed category, things are still going well for the woman behind Kylie Cosmetics, Kylie Skin, Kylie Swim, Kylie Baby, and more. She’s also still the most-followed woman in the world, so don’t get too comfortable, boys. The race to 500 million is on.
4. Lionel Messi- @leomessi
Followers: 335 million
As one of Ronaldo’s biggest rivals in football would, it only makes sense we’d see him as one of CR7’s most extensive on the ‘Gram, as well. Another entry in football’s G.O.A.T. conversation, the Argentine forward has proven himself equally adept at the social media game, just edging out Kylie Jenner from the #3 spot at year’s end — and continuing that climb quickly.
5. Selena Gomez- @selenagomez
Followers: 325 million
Selena Gomez has been in the spotlight her entire life, and the social media era has been no exception. In addition to magazine shoots, plandids, and candids, Gomez uses her platform to talk about mental health, citing her ups and downs and encouraging followers to educate themselves on the importance of mental fitness.