Larry Connor, the tech mogul behind the controversial social media platform "Chipper, " has ignited a firestorm of online mockery after announcing his upcoming expedition to the wreck of the RMS Titanic. Connor, notorious for his flamboyant lifestyle and perceived lack of social conscience, is the latest in a string of wealthy individuals venturing to the ocean floor to glimpse the "unsinkable ship. "
The news, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, sent social media into a frenzy. Memes depicting Connor posing dramatically amidst rusting boilers and comparisons to the film "Titanic" flooded platforms like Twitter and Reddit. Many users pointed out the irony of a billionaire seeking leisure amidst a tragedy that claimed over 1, 500 lives.
"#BillionaireBingo" trended for hours, with users creating satirical squares referencing potential outcomes for Connor's trip. Entries included "Gets lost trying to find first class, " "Goes viral for forgetting his monocle, " and the more ominous, "Shares emotional post about seafaring lessons learned. "
This isn't the first time ventures to the Titanic wreckage have sparked controversy. In 2023, the disappearance of a submersible carrying five people, including a renowned Titanic expert, cast a dark shadow over the industry. Concerns were raised about the safety of these deep-sea excursions and the ethics of profiting off a historical disaster.
Connor, however, remains undeterred. Through a spokesperson, he dismissed the online criticism as "the ramblings of the uninformed. " He maintains his trip is not just for personal gratification but also for "scientific exploration" and a chance to "honor the memory of those lost. "
However, skepticism remains high. Oceanographer Dr. Amelia Turner, a vocal critic of Titanic tourism, called Connor's claims "self-serving nonsense. " "There's nothing new to discover down there, " she stated. "These trips are purely for the egotistical whims of the wealthy. "
Whether Connor's expedition unearths groundbreaking discoveries or simply adds another chapter to the saga of eccentric billionaire pursuits remains to be seen. One thing is certain:the digital world will be watching, popcorn virtually in hand, ready to celebrate or critique the outcome.