Analyzing the TikTok trend “What did Michael Jordan do to the dog?”
A recent internet trend, “What did Michael Jordan do to his dog?'' has become a big, playful Nothing Burger.
Apparently, in November 2021, a TikTok user posted a short video that abruptly ends with the question, “What did Michael Jordan do to the dog?” This cliffhanger went viral with no answers or context.
People wanted answers. More videos have appeared, all asking the same question, but with no solution provided. The lack of real answers became a joke in itself. Some people even created fake news stories about Michael Jordan encountering a vicious dog and his dog needing surgery (there's no evidence that Jordan even owns a dog!) .
So what is the truth? Michael Jordan probably wouldn't have done anything to dogs. There were no incidents, no heroic rescues, no tragic encounters with dogs. In short, this trend was a viral prank.
Possible logic behind 'What did Michael Jordan do to the dog' go viral online?
The questions themselves are designed to attract attention. It preys on people's love for celebrities and their curiosity to know the gossip.
Also, this prank falls under clickbait. Humor comes from the absurdity of the question itself.
Moreover, pranks grow with user participation. TikTokers speculated and joked in the comments, which created a sense of community around the viral search.
Weird Michael Jordan trend going viral on the internet
crying jordan meme: In 2009, a photo of Jordan crying during his Hall of Fame induction speech went viral. But the internet didn't work. Instead, the images were photoshopped into a myriad of scenarios, from athletes losing a match to everyday situations like burning toast.
MJ tongue challenge: This one is a little more recent. In 2020, a video was released of a young Michael Jordan sticking out his tongue far beyond what would appear natural. Never one to miss a challenge, the internet has dubbed this the “MJ Tongue” challenge. People (mostly young spectators) tried to recreate this feat. Hilarious!