Social media: whether it’s the explosion of fans or the downfall of oneself. For some, this is what earns them their big hit, gaining them recognition, but is it going too far? Online groups of influencers aren’t new, especially to those who have been on the internet during the COVID-19 pandemic. A notable one is the Hype House, which had a member peak of 21 in March 2020 before the starter of the team left. The bunch was known for their videos, mainly dancing to trending sounds, but they also did content of fun challenges. Some popular creators who gained extremely significant followings include Charli and Dixie D’Amelio, Lil Huddy, and Addison Rae. The three girls ultimately left in May 2020, with D’Amelios’ representative stating that they quit because it had turned more into a business rather than a group for them to collaborate.
While the Hype House may no longer be relevant, a creator by the name of Gianna has been keeping the legacy alive by initiating a gathering of teen girls and labeling it the Glow House. Some of their top influencers include Embreigh Courtlyn, PresLee Faith, Samara Boulter, and even after her passing, Zuza Beine. The notable difference between the Hype and Glow House, though, is that the members in the recent collaboration are much younger, and many fans have mentioned that they don’t seem very compassionate towards each other; more like coworkers than friends. For example, when Zuza’s passing was announced, some members barely touched on the topic, while others who were very close to her have continued posting in remembrance of her.
Influencer groups never seem to be for fun; they always end up like businesses, and the members, instead of friends, are colleagues. But looking into a business and management team, is it any better? 7M Films is operated by Robert Shinn and is affiliated with the Shekinah Church, where Shinn also serves as pastor. The faction only posts dance tapes featuring older songs; one of their notable creators is Miranda Derricks, formerly known as Miranda Wilkings. A majority of people noticed, though, that when Netflix released a documentary, “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult,” Miranda and her husband completely wiped their social media accounts.
The limited series is primarily based around the Wilking family, but also includes past members sharing their experiences over the past three decades. It is mentioned that Shinn tells the religious followers to “die to their families,” and in context, he was telling them to cut ties with their kin to be “sinless.”
When outsiders such as Melanie Wilking visited, they mentioned that they immediately got bad vibes and didn’t want any part of the religious content group. Past members eventually filed a civil lawsuit against Shekinah with accusations along the lines of forced labor, human trafficking, sexual battery, brainwashing, and alienation. A criminal investigation began in July, and the lawsuit is expected to take place in court later this year.
Whether a content group is for kids or adults, it is essential to know how to keep the group collaborative rather than focusing on a business aspect. Those striving to have their big hit are vulnerable and looking for any help in getting their big break.
