How a Viral Edited Image Misled Crypto Media and XRP Bulls
Several crypto media outlets recently circulated an edited Simpsons screenshot falsely claiming the show predicted XRP would reach $589 by year-end. The image, which resurfaced on social media, was debunked as a fabrication dating back to 2020.
Key Takeaways
- A manipulated screenshot of Bart Simpson "predicting" XRP’s price spread widely but was never part of the show.
- The Simpsons has a history of accidental real-world predictions, but this XRP claim is entirely fake.
- The image originated from a YouTube thumbnail and was later admitted to be fabricated by its creators.
- XRP’s recent price surge ties to Ripple’s legal developments, not the fake prediction.
The Anatomy of the Fake Prediction
The viral image depicted Bart Simpson writing “XRP to hit $589+ by EOY” on a chalkboard—a recurring gag in the show’s opening credits. Despite its convincing appearance, the screenshot was digitally altered and never aired in any of the show’s 729 episodes.
How the Misinformation Spread
- Origin: Created in 2020 by “XRP Talk & Speculation” for a YouTube video thumbnail.
- Admission: The creators later confessed on Twitter, but the tweet gained little traction.
- Media Amplification: Crypto outlets and social media accounts cited the image as genuine, fueling the myth.
👉 Why do fake predictions gain traction in crypto?
The Simpsons and Crypto: Separating Fact from Fiction
While The Simpsons did explore cryptocurrency in a 2020 episode titled “Frinkcoin”, the plot centered on Professor Frink inventing a joke cryptocurrency—not XRP. Key details:
- Episode Date: Aired February 23, 2020.
- Content: No mention of XRP or price predictions.
- Opening Sequence: The chalkboard in that episode contained typical gags, not crypto references.
The show’s real-world predictions are coincidental, not prophetic.
Ripple’s Real News: Legal Battles and Market Reactions
XRP’s recent 50% price surge was driven by developments in Ripple’s lawsuit against the SEC, not the fake screenshot. Highlights:
- Summary Judgment Request: Both Ripple and the SEC seek a judge’s ruling without a trial.
- CEO’s Confidence: Brad Garlinghouse mocked the SEC’s case as “cuckoo for cocoa puffs” on Fox Business.
- Market Response: XRP’s gains were later erased by broader macroeconomic pressures.
👉 How does Ripple’s case impact XRP’s future?
FAQs: Debunking the XRP Prediction Hoax
1. Did The Simpsons really predict XRP’s price?
No. The screenshot was a 2020 edit by a YouTube channel and never appeared on the show.
2. Why do people believe The Simpsons can predict the future?
The show’s accidental parallels to real events (e.g., Trump’s presidency) have fueled myths, but its “predictions” are coincidental.
3. What’s driving XRP’s price movements?
Ripple’s legal updates and market sentiment—not fake media—are the primary catalysts.
4. When will Ripple’s case conclude?
A decision is expected by mid-December 2023.
Conclusion
The $589 XRP prediction was a social media hoax, but Ripple’s real legal progress remains a critical story for investors. Always verify viral claims with credible sources before trading.
For deeper crypto insights, explore our 👉 expert analysis.
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