Recently, a digital phenomenon known as “digitines” has spread across social media platforms, prompting users to unfollow or block celebrities who remain silent about the ongoing war in Gaza.
This trend, which combines the words “digital” and “guillotine,” aims to hold public figures accountable for inaction or lack of support regarding conflicts.
The term first appeared after the 2024 Met Gala, when TikTok user @ladyfromtheoutside criticized the silence on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, bringing the hashtag #Blockout2024 and the newly coined word “digitine” to the spotlight.
Her videos have gone viral online, specifically targeting Hailey Khalil, who posted a video wearing a Marie Antoinette-inspired outfit with the caption “Let them eat cake.” The phrase was mistakenly attributed to Antoinette and came to symbolize the aristocracy's indifference to her suffering.
Khalil initially celebrated the increase in his follower count, but quickly faced backlash. She revealed that she did not attend the Met Gala, even though she apologized for causing any offense. Her number of followers dwindled, highlighting the tangible effects of the “Digitin” movement.
“Let them eat cake” as they pass people protesting genocide and hunger outside the Met Gala is the most outrageous thing I've ever seen. pic.twitter.com/bmfr8lF5LB
— Attorney Tayonce is back (@lesbeyonsay) May 8, 2024
But the backlash wasn't limited to Khalil, with celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian also experiencing noticeable declines in their follower counts. According to Social Blade, Swift lost about 100,000 followers on TikTok overnight, but her overall growth remained strong. Kardashian reportedly lost 3 million followers on one platform, although her TikTok numbers remained steady.
Experts believe that a digital boycott could have a major impact on celebrities. Spokesman Blair Huddy points out: In conversation with Today.com Social media creators are often paid based on follower count and engagement.
Losing followers can reduce your earning potential and marketability. Another PR expert, Tenise Williams, added that a significant drop in followers could send a clear message of public discontent and encourage celebrities to align their behavior with society's expectations.
The “digitine'' movement has sparked a broader debate about the influence of celebrities on public discourse. In an interview with Today.com, certified psychologist Topsy Vandenbosch points out that follower count reflects not only popularity, but also moral authority and influence.
A significant drop in followers could put pressure on celebrities to reconsider their positions and actions. however,Critics argue that a focus on celebrities can distract from the more urgent need to address underlying humanitarian issues.
However, despite these criticisms, the “digitine” movement has led some celebrities to use their platforms for advocacy. Celebrities such as Lizzo and Chris Olsen have posted videos encouraging donations to organizations supporting Palestinians, suggesting the movement may be having the intended effect. ing.
The post “Social media users collectively block silent celebrities in Gaza” first appeared on GCN.
