On May 2, Spirit Airlines employee Amber Lendof Vargas lost her job after the company went bankrupt. Seeking help, Vargas messaged multiple celebrities and influencers to request assistance during her time of need. What Vargas wasn’t expecting was to become the face of TikTok for a short period of time.
The Video That Started It All
A few days after she lost her job, Vargas decided to create a GoFundMe account and utilize her social media accounts to request donations. One person she chose to message was TikTok influencer and makeup artist James Charles.
Instead of ignoring the message, like Vargas expected most people would, Charles uploaded a video about her request. The influencer mocked Vargas, calling her “lazy” and “entitled.” He criticized her for asking for help and instead advised her to look for a new job. Within minutes, Charles noticed furious comments and a huge loss of followers, and instantly removed his video.
His So-Called Apology
Around May 14, after being ridiculed for his harsh behavior and comments, Charles privately messaged Vargas to apologize for his video. Within the message, he wrote, “I’m so sorry for adding to what was already a distressing time, I’m so ashamed for most only the video, but also for being so disgustingly out of touch.”
Instant Karma
Before posting the video regarding Vargas and her situation, Charles had 40.5 million followers on TikTok. Nearly two weeks later, he had dropped down to 4o million, losing over 500,000 fans due to his hurtful words. Even as time passes, the topic continues to be discussed, with TikTok users refusing to let Charles forget his unkind comments.
Not only were fans furious with Charles, but other celebrities were disgusted by his actions as well, making it publicly known. Fellow makeup artist, Jeffree Star, commented on the situation, claiming that Charles was and continues to be ridiculously out of touch with his fans. TikTok influencer Alyssa McKay created a diss track about Charles’ rude comments, highlighting his hypocritical behavior and ignorant remarks. The song rallied additional viewers, tanking Charles’ numbers even lower.
The Power of Fans
This situation alone simply proves the amount of power fans hold over celebrities and influencers. It is a powerful reminder that influencers are only powerful because we give them that power. The minute someone posts something ignorant and cruel, we as a fanbase have the ability to strip that power away.
As you read this, your mind should not focus on James Charles, because the goal is not to give him more attention. The goal is to boost Vargas, you, and any other fans out there! Celebrities and influencers are often brought into the spotlight because fans like them. It’s important that we, as fans, band together and stand up for one another.
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