Summary of "How the Depp v. Heard Trial Became a Meme" – On the Media Podcast

Episode Release Date: May 12, 2022
Host: Brandi Zadrozny (Guest host for Brooke Gladstone)
Guest: E.J. Dixon, Senior Writer at Rolling Stone

1. Introduction: The Media Circus Surrounding the Depp v. Heard Trial

Brandi Zadrozny opens the discussion by highlighting the intense media frenzy surrounding the legal battles between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard. The trial has escalated into what many describe as a "media circus," with both parties suing each other for defamation. Zadrozny notes the unprecedented level of public engagement, emphasizing that the trial's coverage has significantly surged viewership on platforms like Court TV, doubling its usual ratings.

Brandi Zadrozny [01:05]: "The ratings for Court TV, which is broadcasting every salacious moment of the trial, have more than doubled."

2. Memeification of the Trial: From Courtroom to Viral Memes

E.J. Dixon introduces the concept of the trial's "memeification," a process where serious courtroom moments are transformed into viral internet memes. This phenomenon is unprecedented in legal proceedings, especially given the grave nature of the allegations involved.

E.J. Dixon [01:59]: "I've seen the memeification of the Johnny Depp trial, and I've never really seen that process applied to a trial before, especially in the context of such extreme and horrifying allegations."

One of the earliest memes emerged from Depp's humorous remark about pouring a "mega pint of red wine," which quickly spread across social media platforms, inspiring merchandise like T-shirts and mugs.

Brandi Zadrozny [02:25]: "Depp was described as pouring himself a, quote, mega pint of red wine. That word became a meme."

3. TikTok Trends and Their Impact

The conversation shifts to a more unsettling trend on TikTok, where users have been reenacting Amber Heard's testimony using audio clips from the trial. Specifically, the audio where Heard describes being slapped and responding to Depp. These reenactments often depict domestic violence scenarios in a humorous light, generating tens of millions of views.

E.J. Dixon [03:38]: "People are using the audio and reenacting it on TikTok... the end result is that these people are reenacting a domestic violence scenario that Heard is describing on the stand."

Despite violating TikTok's community guidelines against promoting violence, thousands of such videos persist, including creative renditions like cats dressed as the parties involved.

E.J. Dixon [04:31]: "What the spokesperson actually said is that they prohibit TikTok's anti bullying and harassment guidelines. So the videos... were removed, but there are still thousands using this audio."

4. Spread of Misinformation: Challenges in Fact-Checking

Dixon discusses the rampant misinformation surrounding the trial, highlighting specific instances where false claims have gained traction. One notable example involves Amber Heard's use of a makeup palette to conceal injuries. Misinterpretations led to claims that the palette brand existed before the alleged incidents, fueling skepticism about Heard's testimony.

E.J. Dixon [08:38]: "Amber Heard's lawyer said... she used a makeup palette... Milani made a TikTok that went viral, stating the palette wasn't on the market yet until after Heard alleged abuse."

Additionally, outrageous rumors, such as claims of Heard snorting cocaine on the witness stand, proliferate on social media without credible sources or fact-checking.

Brandi Zadrozny [09:51]: "I've seen claims that Amber Heard is snorting cocaine on the witness stand."

5. Broader Social Implications: Impact on Domestic Violence Perceptions and the MeToo Movement

The podcast delves into the broader societal consequences of trivializing domestic violence through memes and misinformation. Dixon references a 2014 study indicating that sexist or offensive humor related to domestic violence can desensitize society and discourage survivors from coming forward.

E.J. Dixon [10:50]: "Irresponsible or lighthearted coverage of domestic violence victims hurts domestic violence survivors in the long run."

Furthermore, the trial has ignited a backlash against the MeToo movement, with some segments of the population questioning the automatic credibility given to survivors' allegations. This shift has allowed groups like Men's Rights Advocates to proliferate narratives that undermine survivors and promote extremist viewpoints.

E.J. Dixon [07:50]: "There's a simmering backlash to the MeToo movement... far right extremist discourse... rape denialists basically."

6. Conclusion: The Lasting Impact and Future Implications

As the trial progresses, Dixon believes the damage to Amber Heard's public image is irreversible, likely ending her career. Conversely, Johnny Depp may see a resurgence in his career regardless of the trial's outcome, with potential film projects on the horizon.

E.J. Dixon [11:44]: "I think the damage has been done. I don't think Amber Heard is going to have a career after this."

Dixon emphasizes that the true concern lies not in determining the trial's veracity but in understanding its impact on societal attitudes toward abuse survivors. The normalization of mocking and misinformation could have long-term detrimental effects on how domestic violence is perceived and addressed.

E.J. Dixon [12:38]: "The focal point of my coverage is how is this going to impact sexual and physical abuse survivors further on down the road."

This episode of On the Media provides a comprehensive look into how the Depp v. Heard trial transcended the courtroom, becoming a pervasive meme culture phenomenon that influences public perception, spreads misinformation, and affects societal attitudes towards domestic violence and the MeToo movement.