Richard Branson BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.
Richard Branson has found himself in the viral spotlight, and not for a high-flying feat or a billionaire business coup, but an unusual dose of street-level humility in New York. While the founder of Virgin Group—estimated at $2.8 billion net worth—launched a US leg of his Doorbell of Dreams initiative, he took a microphone to Manhattan hoping to inspire everyday people to pitch their big ideas in under 60 seconds. The project, in collaboration with entrepreneur Simon Squibb’s HelpBnk, set up camp at Virgin Hotels New York City, aiming to democratize access to mentorship and funding for aspiring entrepreneurs. But instead of being mobbed by fans and hopefuls, Branson was met with a comical degree of anonymity. He politely tried to stop passersby; most brushed past him, unfazed and unrecognizing, and the scene was captured on Simon Squibb’s camera and quickly posted to Instagram. The video went viral, amassing millions of views and sparking a wave of amused and supportive reactions. Social media lit up with disbelief at the sight of the charismatic tycoon being snubbed, with users praising his humility and sense of fun. One Instagram user wrote, “Imagine ignoring one of the world’s most inspirational entrepreneurs,” while another called it “rejection therapy.” Even actor R Madhavan joined the conversation by reposting the video, admiring Branson’s willingness to step into uncomfortable moments.
Branson himself took the rejection in stride, quipping “I’m not doing too well, am I?” and agreeing with Squibb that a little rejection is good for the soul. Eventually, one passing New Yorker did share his dream—financial independence and a positive impact on the world—a small but telling victory for the campaign’s intent.
Away from the New York streets, Branson’s business interests also drew attention. Forbes and other financial outlets noted the impending sale of Virgin Money to Nationwide for over $3.5 billion, marking a notable shift in his banking ventures. After Virgin Orbit’s bankruptcy in 2023, this move is seen as Branson refocusing his energy on core Virgin brands. Meanwhile, Virgin Red’s new research about the neuroscience behind the joy of saving and using loyalty points continues to feature Branson’s penchant for consumer behavioral science and his ongoing engagement with the brand’s evolving strategy.
In recent blog posts, Branson has reminisced about travels from Puerto Rico to the British Virgin Islands, and celebrated the launch of Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady in New York. He, as ever, mixes business with personal advocacy, showing no sign of slowing down—even if a crowded New York sidewalk makes him look just a little less like the world’s favorite billionaire, and a bit more like an eager street interviewer out for a real human connection.
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