Hawk Tuah: From Harmless Meme to Right Wing Symbol
Jul 17, 2024
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Taylor Lorenz and Matt Bernstein discuss the journey of a 21-year-old viral sensation turning into a right-wing symbol. They touch on internet culture, the allure of fame, monetization struggles, the mainstreaming of internet culture in 2020, and the politicization of a meme character into a right-wing symbol.
Viral fame has evolved from early YouTube stars like Antoine Dodson and Tae Zonday to the modern era of TikTok sensations like Charli D'Amelio. The podcast discusses how the transition from mainstream media validation, exemplified by appearances on shows like Ellen, has shifted to a more fractured internet culture where TikTok creates stars faster without needing traditional media exposure. The episode delves into the phenomenon of rewarding white mediocrity, where conventionally attractive white individuals quickly rise to fame and monetization, perpetuating existing societal norms.
Monetization and Exploitation in Viral Fame
The podcast explores the mechanisms behind monetizing viral fame and how certain individuals, particularly those fitting the conventional white beauty standard, are more readily embraced by brands and management teams as marketing opportunities. It highlights the disparities in opportunities and brand deals based on appearance and societal norms, emphasizing how management teams and PR strategies heavily influence who gets exploited and monetized in the internet entertainment industry.
Aspirational Beauty and Societal Representation in Viral Fame
The discussion addresses the concept of aspirational beauty and societal representation in the context of viral fame. It scrutinizes the preferential treatment and opportunities afforded to individuals who fit the conventional beauty standards, particularly thin, blonde, and white individuals in the online entertainment industry. The episode emphasizes how decisions made by management teams, brands, and networks contribute to perpetuating societal norms of beauty and privilege in the digital landscape.
The Different Reactions to Hawk Tua's Viral Fame
Hawk Tua, a viral sensation, sparked conversations about fame, misogyny, and political co-optation. The right-wing embraced her as a symbol, while the left saw potential to harness her influence. Tua's not overtly political stance led to varied interpretations, showcasing the political landscape's complexities. Despite the polarizing reactions, her charisma and potential for media success remain evident.
Online Culture's Impact on Privacy and Perception
Hawk Tua's rise to fame sheds light on the intersection of online culture, misogyny, and political co-optation. Her viral moment garnered attention across political divides, showcasing how social media influences individual perceptions and privacy. The online ecosystem's swift judgments and politicization of a simple moment underscore broader societal challenges and the complexities of fame in the digital age.
I stay away from heterosexual mess, but this time it came to me. Today, Taylor Lorenz and I work backwards to understand how a 21-year-old bed spring factory worker from Tennessee became a culture war symbol because of a drunken joke about fellatio. None of these words are in the bible.
