A "cult figure" refers to a person who has gained a dedicated and passionate following, often among a smaller group of people, for their unique or unconventional qualities, ideas, or talents. Full definition
They wear the familiar pleated skirts, painted black, of the finest Maltese cult figures. (scientificamerican.com)
A true cult figure of the German contemporary art scene. (widewalls.ch)
Players like Arnie, who some are beginning to be compared to Paolo, and Arthur, are almost becoming cult figures in a short space of time. (westhamway.net)