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Free Britney Movement
The #FreeBritney movement, started by fans years earlier, surged again in 2021 because of Britney Spears' public outcry against her conservatorship. Social media users dissected court documents and viral interviews, organizing protests and raising awareness. Hashtags like #FreeBritney brought mainstream attention and pressured legal action.
Platforms: Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok -
Balenciaga Ad Controversy
A Balenciaga campaign featuring children holding bondage-themed teddy bears sparked outrage and massive backlash. TikTok creators and Twitter users accused the brand of promoting disturbing images. Posts demanding accountability went viral, and the brand was forced to issue apologies and remove ads.
Platforms: Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X -
#MeToo Movement Revivals
Social media brought a new wave of momentum to the #MeToo movement. High-profile cases like Andrew Cuomo, Marilyn Manson, and R. Kelly's trial brought more awareness to the cause. Hashtags #MeToo and #TimesUp were trending on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook. Viral videos and posts pressured institutions to act and support. -
Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard Trial
The defamation trial of Depp vs. Heard was livestreamed and transformed into a social media spectacle. TikTok edits and YouTube compilations showed Depp in a positive light and Heard in a negative one. This widely influenced public opinion. Hashtags like #JusticeForJohnnyDepp went viral and shaped narratives all over social media.
Platforms: TikTok, YouTube, Twitter/X -
Bud Light & Dylan Mulvaney Controversy
When Bud Light collaborated with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney, it triggered a backlash on TikTok and Twitter - specifically from conservative voices. Hashtags like #BoycottBudLight trended, and videos of people destroying Bud Light products went viral. The company faced a PR crisis and major drop in sales and customers, showing the influence of online outrage.
Platforms: TikTok, Twitter/X, and Instagram -
OceanGate Titan Submersible Backlash
After the OceanGate Titan submersible imploded while trying to visit the Titanic wreck, social media exploded with memes, conspiracy theories, and criticism of wealth and recklessness. TikTok and Twitter (X) users especially leaned into dark humor and viral commentary, with some posts reaching millions of views.
Platforms: TikTok, Twitter/X, Youtube -
Menendez Brothers: Viral TikTok Support
Decades after their 1990 conviction for murdering their parents, the Menendez brothers gained renewed attention through TikTok. Old clips began to circulate the internet and young users - specifically Gen Z - questioned the fairness of their trial - highlighting the severe abuse the brothers claimed to have faced. Even more attention was gained with the release of a new season of "Monsters" would focus on their case. Hashtags like #FreeTheMenendezBrothers exploded.
Platforms: TikTok, YouTube, X