Today, Explained Minion Jesus
Aug 28, 2024
Laura Bullard, a senior researcher, dives deep into the unexpected link between a viral Minion meme and the 2024 election. Evangelist Taylin Michael Seaman, who teaches viral video creation, discusses how digital faith intertwines with pop culture. They explore the intersection of humor and religion on platforms like TikTok, revealing trends in online evangelism and community dynamics. The conversation also touches on the rise of fringe religious movements and their impact on political narratives, especially in a climate influenced by Christian nationalism.
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Minion Crucifixion Meme
- Laura Bullard noticed a strange, recurring TikTok meme featuring a crucified Minion.
- Multiple creators replicated the video with eerily similar scripts, prompting her investigation.
The Image's Origin
- Laura Bullard traced the meme's image back to its creator, Américo Cruz, a graphic design student in Mexico.
- Cruz created the image in 2021, inspired by absurd Gen Z humor and older memes.
Orchestrated Virality
- The videos' spread wasn't organic; they tied back to a coaching program run by Taylin Michael Seaman.
- Seaman's "Viral Revival" and "Kingdom University" teach evangelists to create viral religious content.