The new series of BBC One's Amandaland places influencers firmly in the crosshairs of comedy, satirising real-life mums who generate a living—or at least a healthy side income—from social media. Starring Lucy Punch as aspirational divorcee Amanda Hughes, the six-episode comedy series explores the highs and lows of posting content for a living.
While the series offers a candid portrayal of life as a wannabe influencer, those who have successfully carved a career from social media enjoy untold gains. In fact, some of the UK's biggest influencers are now barely recognisable from their early days on Instagram and TikTok. From cleaning creators Stacey Solomon and Mrs Hinch to television star Sue Radford and YouTube sensation Louise Pentland, many have undergone significant changes in looks, style, and lifestyle over the years.
Can you recognise your favourite influencer before they rose to fame? Read on to discover how some of the most popular social media figures have drastically changed since their first post.
Mrs Hinch
Sophie Hinchcliffe, known as Mrs Hinch, shot to fame in 2018 after posting step-by-step cleaning tips on Instagram. The social media sensation quickly won fans with her down-to-earth approach. Eight years on, she has 4.8 million Instagram followers and has transformed from a grime-busting home cleaner to a chic lifestyle content creator. Her image has evolved dramatically, with the vibrant makeup she sported in early TV appearances now replaced by a more subtle look. She has even secured a contract with Garnier to promote skincare and regularly posts makeup tutorials.
Sue Radford
Dubbed the mother of 'Britain's biggest family', Sue Radford has soared in popularity online and looks unrecognisable since first appearing on television in 2012. The star of Channel 5's 22 Kids and Counting has undergone a dramatic weight loss transformation, losing three stone without resorting to weight loss jabs. In January, she showcased her toned physique on Instagram, attributing her new look to a strict diet and intense exercise regime. Sue and her husband Noel have a net worth of £975,000 from their TV show, book deals, and online pie business. Despite being called an 'influencer', Sue insists they are 'not wealthy'.
Leonora Smee
Former international showjumper Leonora Smee was raised partly in America before moving to Henley-on-Thames at age six. At 18, she became the youngest flat-race jockey at the Magnolia Cup. After a serious riding accident, she transitioned into the luxury sector, working for Cartier before launching her consultancy and entering the influencer world. Now a 'richtok' influencer, she showcases her lavish life online, including a Valentine's Day countdown calendar from her older husband. However, the concept was actually devised by her social media team.
Stacey Solomon
Stacey Solomon shot to fame as a fresh-faced X Factor contestant in 2009. She has since built a significant social media following, sharing insights into her family life at 'Pickle Cottage' along with budget-friendly DIY and organisation tips. Now 36, she has 6.1 million Instagram followers and is a savvy entrepreneur with clothing ranges, skincare brands, and TV shows. Recently, she cut a glamorous figure in Miami, donning a silver gown and captioning the photo 'Feeling beautiful'.
Emma Sheldon
Emma Sheldon launched her blog EMtalks in March 2012 at age 18, quickly gaining popularity and winning Cosmopolitan's 'Best Newcomer' award. Now she boasts 140,000 Instagram followers, sharing insights into her glamorous life of travel and brand partnerships. Her chic outfits place her at the forefront of the influencer scene. Reflecting on her journey, she said she would tell her younger self that 'it all works out'.
Louise Pentland
Louise Pentland, known online as 'Sprinkle of Glitter', rose to fame in the early 2010s as part of the 'Brit crew' alongside Zoella. Famous for her pink hair, she later shifted to 'mumfluencer' content, sharing the realities of divorce and single motherhood. Now 41, she has 3.5 million Instagram followers and a weekly radio slot on BBC Northampton. She recently married in a second wedding at the Corinthia London hotel and has been open about her 'silent dread' of turning 40.
Lorna Luxe
Fashion influencer Lorna Luxe, real name Lorna Andrews, built an impressive platform sharing fashion and lifestyle with over 27,000 followers. Before fame, she studied English literature and music at Newcastle University and worked as cabin crew for Virgin Atlantic. She has been candid about the loss of her husband John to cancer. At the BAFTA Television Awards, she wore the same gown from their 2010 wedding, saying she knew John would be proud.
