The Onion, a well-known satirical news site, is taking a bold step by creating a parody of Infowars, the controversial platform run by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. After attempting to buy the site for over a year, The Onion has decided to launch its own version of Infowars, using humor to highlight the absurdities of Jones’ conspiracy theories.
Starting Thursday, The Onion will introduce content that mocks Jones’ aggressive mixing of conspiracy theories, dubious scientific claims, and his promotion of various products. Notably, some of the revenue generated from merchandise sales will be donated to the families of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, which Jones falsely claimed was a hoax.
The families affected by the Sandy Hook tragedy have been in a long battle for justice, with courts ordering Jones to pay over $1 billion in damages for his defamatory statements. However, they have yet to receive any compensation. In a significant gesture, The Onion plans to send $100,000 to these families from the sales of merchandise that combines the Infowars brand with The Onion’s logo in vibrant colors.
Ben Collins, CEO of The Onion, expressed that the humor writers have been waiting for this opportunity to address Jones’ outrageous claims. He stated, “Don’t give comedy writers a grudge for 18 months.” The parody will feature shows and content that satirize the chaotic mix of conspiracy theories that Jones is known for.
Jones’ claims regarding the Sandy Hook shooting have led to significant harassment of victims’ families, with some of his followers accusing them of being “crisis actors.” Despite being found liable for defamation, Jones continues to share his conspiratorial views, leading to a continued public outcry against his actions.
At the height of his influence, Jones’ Infowars attracted around 10 million visitors each month and generated more than $50 million in annual revenue. However, the legal judgments against him have shattered his empire, forcing him into bankruptcy and dismantling Infowars as it once existed.
Chris Mattei, an attorney representing some of the Sandy Hook families, pointed out that Jones has effectively lost everything but remains determined to spread his message. He noted, “Every dime Alex Jones makes from here until the end of eternity is going to be claimed by the families.”
The Onion’s initiative came about when Collins realized that Infowars’ assets were being auctioned off. Engaging with the Sandy Hook families, he found that they were initially skeptical but ultimately recognized the potential for The Onion to use humor to reclaim the narrative and address the harm caused by Jones.
While Collins has kept many details under wraps until the launch, he teased that the new Infowars will retain the sharp satire characteristic of The Onion, complete with outrageous fictional products like a “penis flattening device” and a fake supplement pill that claims to replace breathing.
The Onion’s approach aims to not only entertain but also to shed light on the dangerous nature of misinformation. Many of the Sandy Hook families are looking forward to seeing how The Onion will use satire for social good. Mattei shared that the families feel both pleased and amused by the potential outcome of this unique endeavor.
