The Rise & Anatomy of The Iconic Influencer Apology
Jun 13, 2024
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Exploring the evolution of influencer apologies, from Notes app to tearful videos, and even ukelele apologies. Highlighting iconic examples like Addison Rae, Shane Dawson, Jeffree Star, and more. Discussing the effectiveness and sincerity of influencer apologies amidst public scrutiny.
Influencer apologies have evolved from text-based Notes app apologies to emotional video apologies, showcasing the changing dynamics of social media accountability.
Influencers have experimented with unconventional apology methods like dance or song, which can attract attention but also provoke criticism for sincerity.
Deep dives
Evolution of Influencer Apologies
Over the years, influencer apologies have developed into a distinct category of content. As social media influencers gained larger audiences and influence, the expectations surrounding their behavior shifted. With Gen Z viewing pop culture more critically, influencers faced greater scrutiny and accountability. These parasocial relationships led to normalized expectations on influencers, often seen as friend-like figures. Apologies typically follow the surfacing of past transgressions, prompting influencers to address their audience, sometimes proactively.
Notes App Apologies Era
Before iconic apology videos, the era of Notes App apologies emerged in response to noteworthy celebrity statements. These text-based apologies were crafted on the Notes App or Instagram Stories, displayed with contrasting fonts on solid backgrounds. The format gained popularity post-Taylor Swift's note addressing controversy with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. Despite initial success, the trend declined due to overuse and a shift towards more authentic content.
Classic Apology Video Formula
The classic apology video formula has become a staple for influencers addressing various controversies. These lowercase-titled videos often feature creators speaking directly to the camera against plain backgrounds, aiming to convey sincerity and remorse. While tears may feature, the main goal is to convince viewers of genuine regret and taking accountability for their actions.
Variety in Apology Approaches
Influencers have explored diverse approaches to apologies beyond the traditional video format. Some creators, like Sienna Mae Gomez and Colleen Ballinger, utilized unconventional methods, such as dance or song, in their apologies. While these unique approaches can garner attention, they may also face backlash for perceived insincerity or lack of accountability.
In this week's episode, I explore how the influencer apology has become such a big part of online culture. I look at the evolution— from Notes app apologies, to tearful off-the-cuff YouTube videos, to apologies FOR the first apology, to... ukelele apologies(?) — before diving into some of the most iconic examples of influencer apologies over the years.
Timestamps:
3:40 How has the influencer apology become such a major part of online culture?
7:47 The evolution of influencer apologies
10:04 Addison Rae
12:23 Shane Dawson
13:28 Jeffree Star
14:39 Sienna Mae Gomez
15:18 Colleen Ballinger
17:54 David Dobrik
20:25 Tana Mongeau
23:00 Mikayla Nogueira
24:07 Apologies that have gone over well
28:17 Can influencers actually effectively apologise?
29:55 Can influencer apologies ever be sincere when so much is on the line?
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