Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian are facing a social media backlash as part of the ‘Block Out 2024’ movement, where users are blocking celebrities for not speaking out on the Gaza conflict. The movement gained momentum after the Met Gala, contrasting the event’s glamour with the grim situation in Gaza.
Haley Kalil, an influencer, posted a TikTok video lip-syncing ‘Let them eat cake,’ which sparked a response from the movement’s initiator, ladyfromtheoutside, who called for a ‘digital guillotine’—urging followers to withdraw their support from silent celebrities.
Both Swift and Kardashian have lost hundreds of thousands of followers, with Swift focusing on her tour and Kardashian attending the gala. The movement’s impact is debated, with some attributing the follower loss to ‘slacktivism,’ where online gestures replace substantial political action.
Celebrities face risks in responding to such movements due to the sensitive nature of the Gaza conflict. Susan Sarandon and Jerry Seinfeld have faced repercussions for their political stances. The phenomenon of ‘parasocial’ relationships, where fans feel a personal connection to celebrities, can lead to feelings of betrayal when stars don’t align with their views.
Lizzo, for instance, faced criticism for promoting a fundraiser for Gaza, perceived by some as opportunistic. The situation highlights the complex dynamics between celebrity activism, fan expectations, and the volatile nature of social media support.
