5 celebrities in Columbus with huge followings on social media

From drummers to foragers to poets, these creators in Columbus, OH boast massive followings on social media.

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Josh Dun of Twenty One Pilots got his start in Columbus. | Photo via Wiki Commons

When it comes to tastemakers + influencers, the city is full of star power. Don’t believe us? Follow along as we take a look at some of the biggest individual social media accounts based in Columbus.

Josh Dun, @joshuadun | 8.3+ million followers | Instagram | Twitter

As the drummer + only other member of Twenty One Pilots (which was formed in Columbus), Josh Dun boasts some of the biggest follower counts in the city. He recently confirmed on Architectural Digest that he still lives in the city with his wife + actress Debby Ryan.

From bug poop to mushrooms, Alexis helps Jimmy + Guillermo learn how to forage. | Screenshot via Jimmy Kimmel Live

Alexis Nikole Nelson, @blackforager | 5.4+ million followers | TikTok | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Between TikTok + Instagram, Alexis’ following continues to grow — and she’s even caught the eye of Jimmy Kimmel. Alexis’ uploads are a refreshing treat as she’s often exploring + identifying uncommon edible plants in Ohio with explanations on how to prepare them.

Saeed Jones, @theferocity | 250,000+ followers | Instagram | Twitter

From becoming BuzzFeed’s founding LGBTQ editor to publishing award-winning books, Saeed Jones has a major following for a reason. His wit + sense of humor are on full display on his Twitter page, and you can always hear more of him on the Vibe Check Pod .

Saeed Jones voiced a librarian on the Christmas episode of “Bob’s Burgers” in 2022. | Screenshot via FOX

Hanif Abdurraqib, @nifmuhammad | 200,000+ followers | Instagram | Twitter

Remember that really great album from the 1990s? Hanif Abdurraqib probably does, and his insights on the music scene have earned his past work a spot on the New York Times Best Seller list. His latest work on 68to05 is worth a follow alone.

Maggie Smith, @maggiesmithpoet | 100,000+ followers | Instagram | Twitter

Maggie Smith rose to fame with her poem “Good Bones” + has continued to produce critically-acclaimed books like “You Could Make This Place Beautiful.” Her page will keep you up-to-date on her latest releases, including previews of her Substack articles .

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Mitch is based in Columbus, OH and has won multiple Associated Press awards for his writing. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in journalism from the Ohio State University, and is always down for a cup of coffee.
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