A new wave of conspiracy theories has emerged around Britney Spears, with fans scrutinising her social media posts for signs that she may have been replaced by a body double or AI creation. The theories, circulating on TikTok, focus on perceived changes in her appearance, particularly her teeth and eyes, as evidence that the 'real' Britney is not the one posting online.
This phenomenon, dubbed 'BAnon' by some, mirrors the earlier #FreeBritney movement but has intensified since the singer was released from her conservatorship in November 2021. Theorists claim that Spears remains under control, possibly in a hospital or mental health facility, and that her Instagram is being populated by fake videos and photos.
Experts note similarities to QAnon, with followers engaging in deep analysis of media artefacts to uncover hidden truths. Dr Daniel Jolley, a social psychology expert at the University of Nottingham, says the videos are 'naturally intriguing' and presented in an engaging manner, drawing viewers in. The theories range from claims that Spears is sending SOS signals in her dances to more disturbing suggestions that she is no longer alive.
