Paid subscriptions for UK-based publishers and creators have officially surpassed half a million on Substack, in exclusive new data released to Hollywood Reporter.
This milestone comes as Substack evolves beyond its foundational newsletter offering into a comprehensive platform for writing, podcasting, video, and community building. The UK is the site’s second-largest market after the US, and notable Britons using Substack – where creators can publish content such as newsletters or blogs directly to subscribers – include Charli XCX, Jamie Oliver, and, as of December 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Globally, readers now pay for more than five million Substack publisher subscriptions across entertainment, current affairs, film, finance, fashion, food and culture. More than 50 people make more than $1 million a year on Substack, and last summer, the company reached unicorn status at a $1.1 billion valuation following a Series C funding round.
Top-selling UK creatives on the platform include London Centric, Philippa Perry, Vittles, Ottolenghi, Comment is Freed and Exponential View, while UK screen industry publications – such as The Media Club, The Indie Hustle, Film London and Business of TV – have recently set up shop.
It helps that some of the world’s biggest stars have embraced long-form content, too. brat Charli XCX Code recently used Substack to expand into creating soundtracks for Wuthering HeightsFor example, while Lena Dunham incorporated the platform into her new book launch, Longing for fame. Lizzo wrote on Substack about her “cancellation” experience at length, and British TV chef Jamie Oliver described the platform as a place where he could “learn about topics that will never be shown on TV.”
Farah Storr, head of international at Substack and former editor-in-chief of ELLE UK and Cosmopolitan, says: THR The latest numbers reflect a broader shift towards audiences seeking real voices and authenticity online.
“People are becoming more conscious about what they consume,” Storr says. “Individuals and brands alike across the cultural and media landscape are finding great benefits from building a real depth of lasting relationships with readers on their own terms. We hope many will find a home here.”
Not long ago, Substack revealed that one in three publishers on the platform are now based outside the US, alongside rolling out new translation features designed to accelerate international growth.
The company is also close to finalizing nine new international appointments in markets including France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Australia and Brazil.
