In recent weeks, a peculiar and sensational conspiracy theory has surged across social media platforms, particularly TikTok, alleging that society’s elite are hosting clandestine gatherings where they consume mermaids. This bizarre narrative has captivated the imaginations of many, prompting discussions and debates about its origins, credibility, and implications.​

The Genesis of the Theory

The “Mermaid Eating Parties” conspiracy theory gained traction in early March 2025, primarily due to a series of TikTok videos posted by user @jlee2.07. In these videos, she recounts a story allegedly told to her about an ex-convict named Landon who, struggling to find employment, joins his cousin on a fishing expedition. The narrative takes a dark turn when Landon discovers that their most lucrative catch is not exotic fish but mermaids, which are purportedly delivered to affluent individuals for consumption and research purposes. ​

Dissemination and Public Reaction

Following the initial posts, the theory spread rapidly across TikTok, with various creators sharing their interpretations and reactions. One notable video by user @tiffsghosttalk describes an account from an individual who claimed to have attended such a dinner, where a mermaid was allegedly served as the main course. This video amassed over 1.7 million views, further fueling the conspiracy’s momentum. ​

The Reddit community also engaged with the topic, with users expressing skepticism and humor regarding the outlandish claims. One user commented, “Bots or fake accounts. No rational person believes in mermaids. First I’ve heard of it, but genuinely seems like random TikTok bullshit.” ​

Analyzing the Claims

Despite the widespread attention, there is no empirical evidence to support the existence of mermaids or the occurrence of such elite gatherings. Mermaids have long been a staple of folklore and mythology, with no scientific validation of their existence. The narratives circulating on social media lack verifiable sources and are primarily anecdotal, often presented without corroborative details.​

The Role of Social Media in Amplifying Conspiracy Theories

This phenomenon underscores the power of social media platforms in disseminating and amplifying unverified information. TikTok, with its vast user base and algorithm-driven content delivery, can rapidly propel sensational narratives into the mainstream, regardless of their factual accuracy. The “Mermaid Eating Parties” theory exemplifies how easily misinformation can spread, especially when it taps into the public’s fascination with the mysterious and the macabre.​

Expert Opinions

Experts caution against the unchecked spread of such conspiracy theories. An unnamed doctor which is a sociologist specializing in digital culture, notes, “The rapid proliferation of unfounded theories on platforms like TikTok highlights the need for critical media literacy. Users must be equipped to discern credible information from baseless claims.”​

While the “Mermaid Eating Parties” conspiracy theory has captured public attention, it remains firmly in the realm of fiction. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and skepticism, especially in the digital age where information, both true and false, spreads rapidly.

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