Fascinating. I’ve observed this dynamic too and mentioned it in an earlier draft but cut it.

My guess is that smaller creators have a greater ability to respond to their smaller fan base, deepening these connections. Also, as some creators grow their content becomes more high-production, polished, and #sponsored which might feel less “organic” compared with smaller creators just starting out on a budget.

I guess D listers also feel closer and more relatable, like, almost that they’re your actual buddies.

I bet that it's also that smaller creators are also more likely to actually interact with their fans because there's fewer people vying for their attention and they're still trying to build popularity.

Yea, this is one part of it. At least some followers look up to them because they think they could realistically jump to being them whereas A-listers are too distant.