Do You Know The Source Of These 25 Viral Tweets?
- by Jessica
- – on
- in Entertainment
Social networks have changed how we communicate, self-identify, and receive our news. One platform is far superior to the others since it requires snappy headlines and is restricted to written content. Did you guess Twitter?
Twitter began in 2006 as a pet project of Jack Dorsey, Noah Glass, Biz Stone, and Evan Williams. Since 2010, Twitter has integrated features created by innovative users to make the platform more efficient like @reply and Retweet. As of March last year the site had over 320 million active users-- seventy percent of whom live outside the United States.
The application helps curate or launch online presences, whether that be for an enterprising individual or a new company. Twitter democratizes communication and can draw attention to serious issues in a condensed 140 character format. You don't have to be famous for a tweet to go viral-- the internet just needs to find your cause important or funny. One of the most entertaining outcomes of the proliferation of social media is the necessary adoption of these platforms by politicians or international leaders like the Pope.
Following are 25 tweets chosen by their record amount of retweets or by the splash they made on the internet. Twitter accelerates global publishing of information and opinions, can you tell who wrote these viral tweets?
"You guys r idiots @united HOW U PUT MY DOG ON THE WRONG FLIGHT???? I need answers"
United has been called out this year. From when they dragged a man off their overbooked flight (April 2017) to losing this rapper's canine this past July 14th. Originally the the rapper was delivered the wrong dog which prompted the enflamed tweet above. However, things were soon resolved when the French Bulldog puppy was restored to his owner. Of course this rapper is popular online and off, so his message to United was immediately trolled by his followers. Twitter is good for firestorms and ensuring everyone is accountable.
"If only Bradley's arm was longer. Best photo ever. #oscars"
This comedian's tweet held the number one spot for most retweets ever for three years, posted in March 2014. It was boosted by timing as the tweet was posted during the Oscars awards ceremony-- an event followed intently on social media. The tweet also included an image with a well-rounded cast of Hollywood's most famous faces. If that's not a recipe for 3.4M retweets I don't know what is. However, the comedian's tweet was edged out this May 2017 when a random plea for chicken nuggets went viral.
"Ed Balls"
This hilarious tweet came out in April 2011 when an English Member of Parliament misunderstood how to use Twitter. Like all politicians, it was clear that prior to this staffers had run his social media. Instead of sending a message, he tweeted his own name. The internet picked it up immediately and it was retweeted 95K-- not bad for a gaffe. Of course, it certainly helps his last name is the informal name for that male piece of genitalia that is naturally lopsided.
"All the love as always. H"
On March 25th 2015 a boyband heartthrob tweeted out this vague message that immediately went viral with 841K retweets. Earlier that day co-member Zayn Malik privately stated that he was leaving the band. This tweet was clearly prompted by these events. But fans were pretty offended that the bandmates were not more forthcoming with information about Zayn's decision. Only this member and Louis Tomlinson tweeted indirectly about his departure. Of course, the band's Twitter community were devastated, questioning why or suggesting conspiracy theories.
"Despite the constant negative press covfefe"
After midnight on May 31st this new politician sent a typoed tweet that caused an internet firestorm. Shortly thereafter he sent a follow-up tweet stating, "Who can figure out the true meaning of 'covfefe'?? Enjoy!". Mass speculation of the word's meaning ensued. Merriam-Webster dictionary even chimed in but to no avail. Social media certainly had fun with this blunder. Gifs of the politician photoshoped in Drake's Hotline Bling and parody's of the administration's response were up within the same night.
"Thank you for everything. My last ask is the same as my first. I'm asking you to believe-- not in my ability to create change, but in yours."
For those of us who remember the 2007 American Presidential campaign this message is especially poignant. This world leader announced his candidacy on February 10, 2007 with the thematic campaign message of "change". The tweet above was posted January 10, 2017 as a sign off after his eight years in office. With 879K retweets, we could say it was well received. He is the most followed political figure on social media, closely tailing Katy Perry and Justin Bieber in the top three.
"I didn't shower all day then I finally did and a fly followed me all the way to the shower. John said I'm the kid from peanuts"
This model is known both for her stunning features as well as her witty online banter. She curated a feed that is down to earth and surprisingly relatable even for us mortals. It is helpful she can laugh at herself. In the tweet (above) published last September she shared online that she was called pig-pen from Peanuts. She and her musician husband (John) are a power duo, both rich and famous but also relaxed and silly. We can always look to this woman for straightforwardness.
"HELP ME PLEASE. A MAN NEEDS HIS NUGGS"
This past April a boy on a mission was able to achieve his goal of a year of free chicken nuggets. The thread to the right tells the story and although he did not reach 18M, he broke previous retweet record by 200K (now 3.6M). Given this Wendy's overlooked the required 18M, gave him a year's worth and donated money to charity in celebration. This incident is reminiscent of the Kickstarter success for Jack Brown's Potato Salad Project-- it tells us humour and food propel things to go viral.
"if your grave doesnt say "rest in peace" on it you are automatically drafted into the skeleton war"
Currently entertaining 663K followers, this parody account has been honing their act since 2008 though only viral since 2013. Though the account photo resembles a blurry Jack Nicholson, the identity of the actual user is a mystery. This anonymity is a pretty big feat considering followers of the account subscribe purely for the punny 140 character content. The tweets are drafted sometimes in comedic threads but always without images. They are reminiscent of the @Horse_ebooks, whose account went viral in 2012.
"I did not diss Taylor Swift and I've never dissed her..."
This controversial hip-hop artist tweeted the line above February 12th along with a storm of other tweets defending his creative license as a rapper. This reasoning was prompted by the first single "Famous" off his 2016 Life of Pablo album. He stated he made Taylor (Swift) famous, unleashing a flood of the singer's fans calling him misogynistic. The allusion to the previous 2009 VMA's interruption left insult to injury. Kanye took the mic from Swift, who was accepting Best Female Music Video, and declared Beyoncé should've won the title.
"I can't believe my grand mothers making me take out the garbage I'm rich fuck this I'm going home I don't need this shit"
This rapper had too much with the bossing around from his grandma and turned to Twitter to vent. Sent in August 2010, the tweet received 415K retweets and diverse range of responses from his fanbase. The receptions to it ranged from hilarity to outrage and by the end of it he was up for a fight. By the next day he'd cooled down and could laugh at his candid responses. Reminds us of an important lesson: no matter where you go in life, you'll always be your grandma's helper.
"Our scariest president was probably Rushmore, because he had four heads"
Another novel Twitter user is this comedian whose wit and style have earned her 618K followers since her introduction to the app in 2010. She went viral almost immediately, using satire and straightforwardness to reach her current base. An alumni of Harvard University, she now lives in L.A. and has written for the 83rd Academy Awards and Parks and Recreation when she isn't tweeting. She also has a hilarious site of personal essays that are biting and comment on current events.
"Is there anything more capitalist than a peanut with a top hat, cane, and monocle selling you other peanuts to eat"
Joining in 2009, this user also used his tight humour to lead him to 55K followers. With edgy, randomly prompted tweets his feed is one of the places people go to consistently find good content. The joke above got 23K unprompted retweets, and like anything else on the internet is liable to be stolen. In an NY Mag interview the user said he only minds if people use his jokes for profit or to boost their own platform. He now writes for Hiveswap, the Homestuck video game.
"All praise to the most high bless up "
This rap producer showed his appreciation for God in November 2015 with the prayer emoji everyone once thought was a high-five. This was shortly before he got lost on a jet ski in Florida, publishing on SnapChat his panic in this moment, repeating: "the key is to make it". Originally from Miami, this charming DJ is notable for his large personality and the wisdom in his catchy phrases. In December 2016 he published a book called "The Keys" (to success).
"On and off Twitter, I'm fighting for girls -- will you join me?"
A newcomer to Twitter, this person was given a warm welcome with the message above attracting 23K retweets this past July 7th. This inspiring individual is grounded in her message demanding education for women with an emphasis on developing countries. Her personal and empowering story also propels her humanitarian campaign and upcoming #GirlPowerTrip. She is a central figure constantly reminding us women's rights are human rights. Impressively she has managed all of this and survived an attack on her life and she's not twenty-one.
"It's Pi Day! Our understanding of mathematics has changed the world. Celebrate Circles!"
This science enthusiast has 5.24 million followers and never misses a Pi Day. Streaming from Seattle, this individual hosted a show promoting science to children and succeeded in reaching children's households around the globe. His show was also used as a pedagogical tool in elementary school classrooms. In these shows he stressed the foundation of science over its technological application. He has had several shows over the decades with a new Netflix series coming out called "******** " Saves the World.
"I don't need femims women can't be leaders what if they get periods?? They might start a war over a bad reason! a thing men have never done"
This issue account was created in 2014 to mock women who do not see the inherent value of being treated as an equal in society. It has gained 177K followers and allows contributions for upcoming tweets. The satirical account always misspells "feminism" to undermine its importance or discredit it in the stead of women who are against it. The writers add laughably weak arguments that highlight double-standards that men and women are measured against. Like the tweet above, imagine (as a woman) being penalized for a bodily function that enables human production. Wild.
"HI TWITTERS. THANK YOU FOR A WARM WELCOME. FEELING REALLY 21ST CENTURY."
Known for her own show and some acting appearances, this loveable talkshow host was ecstatic to get caught up with new trends. Since this first post, her loyal fan base has kept up with her account, giving her 37 million followers. This tweet was a classic example of the transition in tone and style necessary when older people adapt to Twitter. We do commend her though for the early sign-in in 2009. @SHAQ playfully responded mentioning she might want to know she was tweeting in all caps.
"We are all one This American Life episode away from fully understanding the human experience & what squarespace is"
Starring on Inside Amy Schumer and working as contributing writer for Late Night With Seth Meyers, this user is one of the funniest people on Twitter. Like many other comedians, she thrives on the application, expressing difficulties and poking fun at weird things that go viral. She also podcasts as the co-host of Blue Woman Group. She has 205K followers including President Barack Obama and NPR. Part of her humour delves into her own struggles with depression, dispelling stigma and facing the realities of these problems head-on.
"Watch our for the Regina George in sheep's clothing..."
This singer recently became the most followed person on Twitter with over 100 million followers as of June 2017. Controversially, BBC has done a study to suggest that more than half of the pop star's followers may be bots. A member of the site since 2009, the message above was a still of her subtweeting beef in 2014 towards fellow singer Taylor Swift. Recent rumours abound that Swift may have released an album the same time as her most recent one, Witness.
"just setting up my twttr"
As a test run this Twitter founder sent a really original tweet to the platform to test functionality. It was March 21, 2006-- before the application went public. Funnily enough this type of meta description is the type of content new users generally produce before figuring out social norms of the application. Its certainly interesting to see people, especially celebrities, fumbling to use the platform correctly. However, after following a few people and testing responses twitter users generally get the hang of it.
"Good morning. Your mind is your home and no one else's. Furnish it as you wish. Set the temp so you're comfortable"
This reassuring message comes from a composer who recently entered into the spotlight with his new musical Hamilton. Released in November 2016, the show was a sensation on Broadway, winning eleven Tony Awards, a Pulitzer and selling over a billion dollars worth of tickets. His fresh take to rap and choreograph the story of America's founding fathers through the medium of hip-hop was inspired. He has been writing accredited musicals since University and still cares to ensure his fans feel well supported.
"If not for the cowardly action of John Wilkes Booth, Abraham Lincoln would have turned 207 today."
This actor is known for both his epic and comedic roles. From Jurassic World to Parks and Recreation he retains his slick humour and good looks. With 4,48 million followers on Twitter, he is up to the same range as other celebrities. However he uses this platform for solid one-liners as well as self-promotion. He also replies a substantial amount to fan accounts, using Twitter to make himself more approachable. For a part in Moneyball he was told his weight was a problem, with perseverance he lost thirty pounds and got the role.
"Change Schools"
This stern British Chef and TV host has a high baseline for food. Everything matters to this perfectionist, he is a stickler for presentation, ingredients, and taste. He is also known for the intense pressure and cursing on his cooking shows. Since February 2017 Twitter trolls have gone wild egging him on with the unappetizing photos of an everyday meal. Many of his viewers remarked on the stark difference between how he treats adult contenders versus the children on his show. Following this chef is certainly a laugh.
"If I was blind I could tell who the hot girls in the nail salon were by how boring their stories are"
This actress and producer is the star of her own show The Mindy Project and has written two books. Both have appeared on the New York Times bestseller list. Before this she starred in NBC's The Office where she directed season six and encouraged her to pursue her own show. She has also made several acting appearances and is set to appear in upcoming films. As an Indian American actress she was conscious of practices outside of the U. S. tradition and introduced the celebration of Diwali in an Office episode she wrote.