Don't get caught looking out of place. Here's everything you need to know about what’s happening on the internet to sound smart in front of your boss, compiled by unhinged marketing professionals:
What the internet is talking about right now:
Church is selling 'plots in Heaven'
A Facebook post from a church offering "plots in Heaven" has sparked confusion and skepticism. The post, which includes prices starting at $250 and payment options such as Visa and Mastercard, has received mostly negative reactions and has been picked up by media outlets and social media pages. Some claim the church is a satire Evangelical church that mocks grifting pastors, while others are still unsure of the sincerity of the offer.
Sinkhole swallows soccer field in Illinois in shocking video
A massive 100-foot sinkhole opened up in an Illinois park, swallowing a light pole and leaving a gaping, 30-foot deep hole. Luckily, no one was hurt, and the sinkhole appears to be the result of an underground mine, with the area being secured and off-limits for the foreseeable future while inspectors and experts examine the mine and conduct repairs.
The "Plane Cheater"
Neither the cheating husband nor his wife have acknowledged Caroline Rened's viral TikTok, in which she exposed the husband's infidelity on a plane. Despite the video going viral and the husband and wife being identified, they have not publicly addressed the scandal.
Paris Hilton’s 'real voice'
Paris Hilton has surprised fans by allowing her alleged ‘real’ voice to slip through while advocating for child welfare during a congressional panel looking into strengthening child welfare protections. The media personality, who testified she had been institutionalized and ‘sexually abused’ as a teenager, has been part of the panel advocating for better protections for children in youth facilities, with a particular moment from the hearing going viral and causing fans to claim she should pursue a political career.
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RIP, Charlotte the Stingray
A stingray named Charlotte at a North Carolina aquarium died after getting a rare reproductive disease, despite getting pregnant without being in contact with a male stingray for at least eight years. The pregnancy made headlines around the world and provided fodder for late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel and “Saturday Night Live.”
Couple’s “disturbing” boxing gender reveal
A couple's boxing-themed gender reveal on TikTok has gone viral, with viewers expressing concern for the safety of the new parents after the video showed the father punching the mother's hands to reveal the gender of their baby. The video has sparked a debate on social media, with some users expressing discomfort and concern over the aggressive nature of the gender reveal.
Aubreigh Wyatt Bullying Lawsuit
13-year-old Aubreigh Wyatt tragically passed away in 2023, sparking widespread discussion on social media about her suicide and the bullying lawsuit surrounding it. Her mother, Heather Wyatt, has been open about her daughter's experiences and has started a foundation to raise awareness and support programs for teen suicide, bullying, and mental health.
HBD, Salad Fingers
Happy birthday to the influential, emaciated humanoid that has played a vital role in shaping the dynamic world of internet culture and online animation as we know it today.
Welcome back, Crawly
TikTok user Crawly Possessed is back, this time with a viral tiny green mall wizard character who crawls around shopping centers in a costume, frustrating mall security and entertaining viewers with his antics. This character has not only gained millions of views on TikTok but has also inspired fan art and imitation videos, making him a popular meme across multiple social media platforms.
Brands like Scrub Daddy and Duolingo are both already acknowledging this memeable moment in their TikTok content.
Crawly gained his moniker and millions of followers in November and December of 2023 after crawling on the floor in department stores and organizing flash mob-style meetups through Telegram.
This is just one of the many wizard-inspired trends that have emerged in recent years. The tiny green mall wizard's pointed hat and wizardly appearance are reminiscent of the “Me as a Baby” wizard from late 2022, and the concept of wizard gangs gained traction in 2023 with the popular meme and shitpost known as Shadow Wizard Money Gang among Gen Alpha.
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If you ask me on a deeper level
In this TikTok slideshow format, users express their profound adoration for their most cherished things, such as pets, food, or people, by sharing heartfelt responses describing their “deeper level” of love.
Lost aura points
In this text-on-photo format, users inquire about the number of aura points (or cool points) they lost when they did something outrageous or unacceptable.
Busy chasing little fairies
In this TikTok carousel format, users show off their pets being unfazed by the stress of everyday life set to audio about how they are too busy chasing fairies.
Hypnotized by Mr. Peabody
TikTok creators use this audio while staring directly at the camera to try to hypnotize the viewer into giving them something small like a can of Dr. Pepper while under their spell. The initial version of this trend featured a poorly executed cosplay of Mr. Peabody, the know-it-all character from the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoons. Occasionally, creators also incorporate this cosplay element into the trend format.
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Kitty keyboard filter
This TikTok filter generates an anime-style kitty based on the letters typed on the keyboard within the after. Most videos using this filter start with the subject saying, “I don't care what kind of cat I am,” followed by them being happy to find out which cat they are.
This is what July is going to feel like
Users on various platforms are forecasting and manifesting the energy and vibes for the upcoming month of July.
Now for a more granular look at moments across the web:
Kyle MacLachlan forms a cult in devotion to Arby’s Potato Cakes
Arby's has launched a new campaign featuring actor Kyle MacLachlan to herald the return of their cult classic favorite, Potato Cakes. The campaign, titled 'The Order of Potato Cakes,' invites fans to join MacLachlan on a quest for crispy enlightenment and offers limited-edition merch items to celebrate the beloved side item's comeback.
Kraft x AnnSandra, Les Ottomans
Kraft Dinner, the beloved macaroni and cheese brand, has launched a new Kraft Dinnerware collection in collaboration with AnnSandra and Les Ottomans, featuring a golden ombre tint that mirrors the iconic cheesy hue stains of the pasta favorite. The collection includes a dinner bowl, a snack bowl, and a serving spoon, allowing fans to bring a piece of that comforting hue into their dinner tables.
McDonald's x JJK
McDonald's is introducing a new Special Grade Garlic Sauce inspired by McDonald’s Japan’s Black Garlic Sauce, in collaboration with anime series “Jujutsu Kaisen.” The sauce features eight unique lid designs and comes with a free 30-day trial of anime and manga website Crunchyroll.
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Philidelphia Cream Cheese x TikTok
Philadelphia Cream Cheese has commissioned an original country song, "Land of the Cream Cheese," sung by rising artist Travis Yee, to celebrate Independence Day and the versatility of cream cheese in various recipes. The campaign will be promoted on TikTok and Instagram with a music video, paid 15-second spots, and recipe duets, tapping into the popularity of cream cheese-filled recipes on social media.
Olivia Rodrigo x Stanley
Olivia Rodrigo announced a collaboration with Stanley by taking a mid-concert sip from a to-be-released tumbler, featuring metallic star appliqués in her signature lavender hue. The 40-ounce quencher is set to drop on July 9, with details on how to purchase it available through Rodrigo's newsletter.
New Banksy surfaces at Glastonbury
The English post-punk band, Idles delivered a politically charged Glastonbury 2024 set, criticizing King Charles and getting unexpected support from Banksy. The socially-conscious rockers led by frontman Joe Talbot performed a rowdy set that is being branded one of the best in the festival’s 52-year history, with a prop provided by Banksy depicting young refugees in a small boat being passed around the crowd during their pro-immigration song “Danny Nedelko”.
Lana Del Rey & Quavo in country-trap collab
Lana Del Rey and Quavo dropped their anticipated country-trap collab "Tough" just in time for Independence Day barbecues, with an ethereal chorus and a picturesque visual to match. The duo gets intimate in the countryside, with Lana pulling out her guitar and Quavo teaching her some proper aim with his shotgun, as they ride across bumpy terrain in his Chevy.
JoJo Siwa Curses At Hecklers
JoJo Siwa had a heated moment at a New York City Pride concert when she stopped her set to curse at hecklers in the crowd, grabbing a handmade sign from fans and making a lewd gesture before continuing her performance.
Rick Ross attacked after playing Kendrick Lamar's “Not Like Us” in Vancouver
Rapper Rick Ross was involved in a physical altercation in Vancouver following a performance at the Ignite Music Festival, reportedly sparked by his choice to play Kendrick Lamar's Drake diss track. Despite the incident, Ross appeared unfazed in social media updates, while fellow rapper 50 Cent offered taunts and Drake quietly liked a video of the fight on Instagram.
Los Angeles Lakers select Bronny James, son of LeBron James
The Los Angeles Lakers have drafted Bronny James, son of LeBron James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, potentially making them the first father-son duo to play in the league at the same time. Bronny, who has shown strong character and work ethic, is excited to join the Lakers and play alongside his father.
RIP, Lizzy Musi
Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings star Lizzy Musi has tragically passed away at the age of 33 after battling stage four breast cancer. Fans are mourning the loss of the fierce competitor and beloved racer, as her father confirmed her passing in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark will play on the same team for WNBA All-Star game
Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark will team up in the WNBA All-Star game against the U.S. women’s basketball Olympic team, with the game set to be broadcast on July 20 on ABC at 8:30 p.m. ET. The All-Stars were selected based on fan votes, with the top 10 vote-getters automatically making the teams and the remaining spots filled by a vote from WNBA coaches.
Howard Eskin barred for 'unwelcome kiss'
Long-time Philadelphia sports radio host Howard Eskin has been suspended from Citizens Bank Park and the Philadelphia 76ers' training facility for an "unwelcome kiss" towards an Aramark employee. Eskin, 73, is a host on SportsRadio 94WIP and Audacy is the parent company of the station.
Cowboys writer shuts down CeeDee Lamb trade request rumor
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports reported on July 2, 2024, with no modifications, that the content on their site is for entertainment and educational purposes only, and all betting content is intended for an audience ages 21+. They also emphasized that all picks and predictions are suggestions only and no one should expect to make money from them.
Crazy Taxi Reboot
Sega has big ambitions for the Crazy Taxi reboot, describing it as an open-world, massively multiplayer AAA game. The game, which first appeared in arcades in 1999, allows players to speed through the city as a taxi driver, performing stunts to earn points along the way.
Genshin Impact Creators Choose America for Launch Event
HoYoverse's new game, Zenless Zone Zero, is set to release in July with a pop-up event in New York City called "Hollow Sighting in New York." The event will offer an immersive experience, exclusive merch, photo ops, and in-game currency for fans to enjoy.
Dungeonborne is like a bleak, hardcore Skyrim
Dungeonborne is a new first-person RPG that takes players on a grueling, dark, and punishing dungeon-crawling experience, with a unique combat system that blends elements from extraction looters, MOBAs, and fighting games. The game offers a balance between intense, gritty gameplay and magical elements, with a focus on weighty, robust, and complex combat mechanics that require planning and guile to survive.
Fastest internet ever!
Engineers in Japan have achieved a data transmission rate of 402 Tbps using standard fibre optic cables, making it possible to download multiple 150 GB games in less than a second. However, the cost of the current setup is prohibitive for general users, and even the best gaming PCs would struggle to keep up with such a lightning-fast connection.
‘God's influencer' will become the first millennial saint
Carlo Acutis, a teenage computer whiz who used the early-aughts internet to spread awareness of the Catholic faith, will become the church's first millennial saint. He is already referred to as "God's influencer" and the "patron saint of the internet" for his work cataloging Eucharistic miracles around the world. Acutis was beatified in October 2020, after the Vatican officially recognized that he interceded from heaven in 2013 to save the life of a Brazilian child who was suffering from a rare pancreatic condition.
New AirPods might have built-in cameras
Apple is planning to add IR cameras to their AirPods by 2026, allowing for new spatial audio experiences. This could include features like emphasizing sound from a specific direction when the user turns their head.
Meta Switches AI Labels From ‘Made With AI’ to ‘AI Info’ Tag
Meta has updated its "Made with AI" labels to "AI Info" in response to user confusion and frustration over the previous wording. The change aims to provide more context and clarity for users who have only used minor AI tools for image editing, preventing unnecessary criticism and arguments in the comments section.
NBC to use AI version of Al Michaels’ voice for recaps
Sports commentator Al Michaels is making a comeback at the Olympics this summer, but with a twist - his voice will be powered by artificial intelligence. NBC will use AI software to recreate Michaels' voice for daily recaps of the Summer Games on its Peacock streaming platform, offering personalized highlights packages in about 7 million different ways.
Wu-Tang x Nike
The highly anticipated Nike Dunk High sneaker, featuring a Wu-Tang Clan design, is set to be released this fall. Sneaker enthusiasts can expect to get their hands on this sought-after shoe in the coming months.
Lana Del Rey in an $11 Walmart Top
Lana Del Rey was spotted in a wallet-friendly $11 top from Walmart, showcasing her signature boho style with a floral tube top from the brand No Boundaries. The crochet top, available in four different patterns, is already selling out in the blue floral shade seen on Del Rey, as fans rush to channel her summer look.
Summer Blush nails
Selena Gomez is embracing a quieter, water-sign-inspired approach to glam with her new "summer blush" manicure, courtesy of her go-to nail artist Tom Bachik. This minimalistic look is right on trend for 2024, with many people embracing sheer and nude shades for a sleek and understated nail style.
Gun-Shaped Bag at BET Awards
Angela Simmons carried a gun-shaped bedazzled purse to the BET Awards, sparking controversy and backlash on social media due to the insensitivity of the accessory, especially given her personal experience with gun violence. Simmons later apologized and acknowledged that it was a poor decision, emphasizing her work in the community to combat gun violence.
Sepiagate
TikTokker Alexandra Jaye Conder expressed her disappointment with her wedding photographer for delivering photos that fell short of her expectations. She alleged that the photos were heavily manipulated according to the photographer's personal style and did not authentically capture the essence of her special day. This incident has ignited conversations about effectively communicating wedding expectations, offering constructive feedback to photographers, and navigating similar dilemmas. Additionally, wedding photographers have been contributing their viewpoints to this evolving dialogue.
Pickle Mania!!!
People are flocking to Seven Brothers Gourmet Oceanside in Long Island, New York to try their viral pickle sandwiches, which have taken TikTok by storm. The sandwiches, which swap bread for a giant hollowed out pickle, are packed full of meat, cheese, and veggies, and have caused a pickle pandemonium at the restaurant, with owner Anthony Fiorito describing recent days as 'pickle mania' and serving around 250 of these sandwiches a day.
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Jack In The Box Returns To Chicago
Jack in the Box is making a comeback in the Chicago area, with plans to open eight locations in the suburbs and one near Midway Airport next year. The fast-food chain eventually aims to open 125 locations in the region, seeking franchise partners to help with expansion.
Skydance Media and National Amusements Inc. Reach New Merger Agreement for Paramount Global
Skydance Media and Shari Redstone’s National Amusements Inc. have quietly renewed acquisition talks and have reached a tentative agreement to acquire Paramount Global. The deal will now be reviewed by Paramount Global’s special committee of its board of directors, with a 45-day window for Paramount and NAI to seek a superior bid.
RIP, Brat wall
Charli XCX has been making changes to the Brat wall in Brooklyn, teasing fans with announcements related to her popular new record. After debuting the Brat album art and then revising it for the deluxe edition, she has now painted the wall green again with the words "ok, bye!" sparking speculation about what's to come next.
BuzzFeed Struggles to Sell ‘Hot Ones’
Hot Ones, the popular YouTube show where celebrities eat spicy chicken wings, has had a string of viral moments with stars like Conan O’Brien and John Oliver. However, behind the scenes, the show's future is uncertain as its owner, BuzzFeed, tries to sell off its assets to pay off debt.
Bloody eye injury caught on Kick stream
FaZe YourRage, a popular Kick streamer, was rushed to the hospital after an axe hit him in the eye while chopping wood on stream. He joined FaZe Clan as a creator and moved from Twitch to Kick, but suffered a serious injury while streaming, leaving fans concerned for his health and well-being.
Oshi no Ko Season 2 Creditless Opening and Ending Videos
Oshi no Ko Season 2 premieres today, and fans can now watch the creditless opening and ending videos featuring the songs "Fatale" by GEMN and "Burning" by Hitsujibungaku. The anime is currently streaming on HIDIVE, and the manga is available in both Japanese and English editions.
The Beverly Hills Cop Movies May Not Be What You Remember
Eddie Murphy's iconic character Axel Foley returns in the 2024 Netflix release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, where he once again takes on corrupt cops and criminals in his own unique style. The movie pays homage to the original 1984 hit while also addressing the changing perceptions of law enforcement in today's society, making it a nostalgic yet thought-provoking watch for fans of the franchise.
RIP, Robert Towne
Oscar-winning screenwriter Robert Towne, known for his work on films like Chinatown and Shampoo, has died at the age of 89. Towne's work was influential in defining the allure of Los Angeles and he was known for his close collaborations with stars like Warren Beatty and Jack Nicholson.
Keith Lee Explains BET Awards Mix-Up
Keith Lee took to TikTok to clear the air about any rumored beef with Taraji P. Henson after a mix-up during the 2024 BET Awards, explaining that he was not upset with Henson and that he believes she "smoked it" during the show. Lee also expressed that the embarrassing mishap was not Henson's fault, but rather the fault of the show's producers, and he wished they had set both of them up for success in that situation.
TikTok Updates Option To Download Clips Without Watermark
TikTok has added a new feature that allows creators to download their videos without the TikTok watermark, making it easier to share their content on other apps. This option prompts users to either save their video with a watermark or "post to save without watermark," ensuring that TikTok gets more content while still allowing users to share their videos on other platforms.
EU Commission Says Meta’s Ad-Free Subscription Offering Violates DMA
Meta's plan to offer EU users an ad-free subscription option has hit a snag, as the EU Commission has ruled that it doesn't comply with new laws aimed at giving users more control over their personal data. This could end up costing Meta a lot of money in penalties, as the Commission has found the company in breach of the Digital Markets Act.
The Supreme Court rules for Biden administration in a social media dispute with conservative states
The Supreme Court sided with the Biden administration in a dispute with Republican-led states over how far the federal government can go to combat controversial social media posts. By a 6-3 vote, the justices threw out lower-court rulings that favored Louisiana, Missouri and other parties in their claims that federal officials leaned on the social media platforms to unconstitutionally squelch conservative points of view.
The White House Creator Economy Conference
The White House Creator Economy Conference (WHCEC) is the first-ever event hosted by the White House’s Office of Digital Strategy, bringing together digital creators and industry professionals to discuss pressing issues in the creator economy, such as privacy, fair pay, AI, and mental health. Attendees will have the opportunity to make their voices heard by Administration officials and provide insight to inform policy decisions.
Crabs can’t read … But you can!
Here are some good reads we picked from around the web:
Complex: Dr Disrespect Scandal Timeline
W Magazine: All the Must-See Celebrity Looks from Wimbledon 2024
TikTok: Your Back-To-School Marketing Campaign Playbook
Silence, Brand! is an internet culture and marketing newsletter compiled by unhinged brand marketing professionals.
Thank you to this installment’s contributors: Ryan Benson & Dayna Castillo