TikTok star Nurse John among Forbes Top 50 Creators for 2026

Filipino-Canadian content creator and comedian Nurse John has earned a spot on Forbes' Top 50 Creators list for 2026, ranking 28th among the world’s influential digital personalities.

Known for his relatable and humorous takes on the nursing profession, Nurse John, whose real name is John Dela Cruz, was recognized by Forbes for successfully transforming his online popularity into a thriving entertainment career.

According to Forbes, Nurse John generated an estimated $7.2 million (around P440 million) in earnings and has amassed a total following of 19.2 million across social media platforms. He also recorded an average engagement rate of 12.97 percent.

Forbes noted that Nurse John's "Short-Staffed Tour" has sold over 250,000 tickets since launching in the fall of 2024. The tour has included sold-out performances across Australia and New Zealand, while its 2026 spring extension featuring 22 shows throughout Europe has reportedly sold out.

Aside from Nurse John, other social media stars included in the list are MrBeast, who ranked number one, “Iron Lung” producer Markiplier, and TikTok star Charli D’ Amelio, among others.

Before becoming a comedian, Dela Cruz worked as a nurse in Canada and served on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. He began creating TikTok videos as a creative outlet to cope with the challenges and burnout brought about by hospital life.

His content, which often draws from the experiences of healthcare workers, quickly gained traction online and resonated with audiences the world over. The growing popularity of his videos eventually paved the way for a successful career in stand-up comedy.

Nurse John previously visited the Philippines for his “The Short-Staffed Tour,” which was held on May 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA News