Crypto Goes Mainstream: A Look at the Intersection of Cryptocurrency and Pop Culture
From Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to Late Night Comedy, Crypto Makes Its Mark
Cryptocurrency has come a long way from being a niche topic confined to the realm of tech enthusiasts. In recent years, it has made its way into mainstream media, appearing in popular TV shows, comedy sketches, and even major events. From the inclusion of crypto-themed balloons at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to late-night comedy segments and animated series, the influence of cryptocurrency on pop culture is undeniable. This article explores some of the notable instances where crypto has stepped out of its ecosystem and into the limelight of mainstream media.
NFT balloon at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade:
In 2023, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a cherished American tradition, took a futuristic turn with the inclusion of a design from the crypto and blockchain space. Viewers across the country were treated to the sight of the blue cat and milk carton characters from Web3 firm Cool Cats Group’s nonfungible token (NFT) collection floating above the parade route. This marked a significant moment in the parade’s 99-year history, highlighting the growing influence of crypto in popular culture.
Covering the Sam Bankman-Fried trial:
Sam “SBF” Bankman-Fried, often referred to as crypto’s “Golden Boy,” found himself in the center of a media storm as he faced trial in 2023. The former FTX CEO’s legal troubles, which included charges of intimidating his former girlfriend and subsequent conviction on seven felony counts, garnered widespread attention. Bankman-Fried’s high-profile status made him a focal point for mainstream media reports and even caught the attention of late-night comedians who couldn’t resist poking fun at the situation.
The ‘Most Interesting Man in the World’ endorses Bitcoin:
Actor Jonathan Goldsmith, known for his role as “The Most Interesting Man in the World” in a popular beer advertising campaign, revived the character to promote Bitcoin for Bitwise Asset Management. Goldsmith’s character, known for his humorous “facts,” drew a broad audience and helped bring Bitcoin into the spotlight. His endorsement came at a crucial time, as the crypto community awaited potential approval of a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund.
Last Week Tonight’s deep dive into cryptocurrency:
In April, John Oliver, the host of Last Week Tonight, dedicated an episode to exploring the world of cryptocurrency. Oliver’s comedic take on the crypto market downturn of 2022 and the downfalls of prominent crypto companies such as FTX, Terra, and Celsius provided both entertainment and insightful analysis. His segment shed light on the complexities of the crypto world, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Futurama takes aim at Bitcoin miners:
The animated series Futurama, known for its satirical take on futuristic scenarios, tackled the world of Bitcoin mining in its latest reboot. The episode humorously depicted a distant future where Bitcoin mining experiences a resurgence in popularity after a thousand years. Jokes about moving to the Old West town of “Doge City” and the excessive power consumption of miners added a lighthearted touch to the portrayal of crypto in popular culture.
Conclusion:
As cryptocurrency continues to gain traction, its influence on pop culture becomes increasingly evident. From its presence at major events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to its portrayal in comedy sketches and animated series, crypto has become a topic that transcends its original ecosystem. These instances not only entertain but also serve to educate and raise awareness about the world of cryptocurrency. As the boundaries between the crypto world and mainstream media blur, it is clear that crypto’s impact on popular culture is here to stay.