Yeat, the American rapper known for his experimental sound and unconventional fashion, has been the subject of a viral rumor that claimed he was dead. The rumor spread on social media platforms such as TikTok and Twitter, where fans and haters alike expressed their shock and disbelief. However, the rumor turned out to be false, and Yeat is alive and well. Here is what we know about the origin and debunking of the rumor.
How did the rumor start?
The rumor seems to have originated from a YouTube video titled “Yeat – Dead (fear. Lil Uzi Vert) [prod. Tristis]”1, which was uploaded on July 23, 2023. The video features a song by Yeat and Lil Uzi Vert, with a thumbnail that shows Yeat lying on the ground with blood on his face. The video description reads “RIP YEAT 2000-2023”. The video has over 10 million views as of September 26, 2023.
The video was apparently intended as a prank or a promotion for the song, but some viewers took it seriously and started spreading the rumor that Yeat had died. Some speculated that he had been shot, stabbed, or overdosed on drugs. Others claimed that they had seen news reports or obituaries confirming his death.
How was the rumor debunked?
The rumor was quickly debunked by Yeat himself, who posted a video on his Instagram story on July 24, 2023. In the video, he said “I’m not dead, I’m alive. Stop spreading fake news. It’s just a song, it’s not real. I love you all, thank you for your support.” He also showed his face and body, proving that he had no injuries or signs of death.
Additionally, several sources confirmed that Yeat was alive and well. His record label, Geffen Records, issued a statement saying “Yeat is not dead. He is working on new music and preparing for his upcoming tour. The YouTube video is part of a marketing campaign for his latest single with Lil Uzi Vert. We apologize for any confusion or distress caused by this prank.”2
His collaborator, Lil Uzi Vert, also tweeted “Yeat is alive. Stop believing everything you see on the internet. The song is fire though.”3
His family and friends also posted messages of support and reassurance on their social media accounts.
What is the impact of the rumor?
The rumor has caused mixed reactions among Yeat’s fans