In our industry (but I would imagine in the internet-addicted world at large as well), we often hear people say “everyone’s on Twitter now.” Well, I’m here to tell you that they have no idea how true that throwaway statement (no doubt meant to demonstrate “digital prowess”) really is. The Dowager Countess from “Downton Abbey,”, Queen Elizabeth II and even “God” himself can be counted among those most eager to share their thoughts and opinions with us, which for their age is impressive in my book.
The rise of the Twitter parody account isn’t a new concept , they’ve been around for years now. But my question is, what makes a good one? Certainly there are countless parody accounts that disappear as fast as they arrived, but there are several that have managed to stand the test of time, and achieved a kind of “micro-fame” within the Twitterverse, including massive cult followings.
The key difference, in my opinion, is that while countless parody accounts pop up around any major pop culture event (remember @pharrellhat after the Grammys anyone?), it’s the ones centered around concepts or figures with more longevity that tend to stand the test of time. In many cases, not only is it obvious that the account is a parody, but this only serves to increase the hilarity, ESPECIALLY when people mistake it for an official account (usually looking for someone at whom to direct their rant). The irreverent combination of a timeless figure tweeting culturally relevant tidbits dripping with sarcasm and irony is irresistible.
Some of my favorite accounts, which I find both ridiculous yet completely spot-on include:
I love the decidedly tongue-in-cheek nature of God commenting on global affairs with some self-centered quip, the Queen of England talking smack about Camilla, and Nietzsche spouting depressing, vaguely hipster-tinged observations. And the DIY tips from the fake Pinterest account are at once completely absurd and terrifyingly realistic. Check them out, you know you want to. Unless you’re not on Twitter, in which case WHO ARE YOU? #Judging #ButReally #GetOnThat.
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Parodies, twitter