Sleuth wars, incels in STEM, and just want Harambe back

Sleuth wars, incels in STEM, and just want Harambe back

From Top Comment by BBC

May 29, 2026 · 26 min

About this episode

The episode discusses an inquest into the deaths of three sisters, online speculation surrounding the case, and reflects on the legacy of Harambe.

An inquest is set to open on Friday into the deaths of three sisters whose bodies were recovered from the sea off the coast of Brighton. The case has led to rampant speculation online, particularly after it emerged that a widely shared image provided by family members appeared to be AI-generated. From unfounded conspiracies about serial killers, to a broader debate over the handling of cases involving black people, it has captivated TikTok sleuths, some of whom are even turning on each other. Also this week - a decade on from his death, Matt and Marianna remember Harambe, the gorilla who achieved internet immortality. Plus, an intriguing job ad from a virtual relationship site, and the Fox News interview being reposted over false claims that a featured contributor was wearing a prosthetic mask. Top Comment is hosted by Marianna Spring and Matt Shea. The series producer is Laurie Kalus. The social producer is Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The editor is Justine Lang. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. If you want to get in touch about something that's popped up on your feed, our email address is topcomment@bbc.co.uk or you can send us a WhatsApp on…

People in this episode

Hosts: Marianna Spring, Matt Shea

Topics covered

  • inquest
  • online speculation
  • Harambe
  • TikTok sleuths
  • black community issues
  • job advertisement
  • media misinformation

Keywords

  • inquest
  • sisters
  • Brighton
  • Harambe
  • TikTok
  • conspiracy
  • Fox News
  • AI-generated image
  • incels
  • STEM

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Fox News

Places: Brighton

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