No! Our beloved multi-lingual friend Duo, the mascot of Duolingo, has passed away after being run over by a Tesla Cybertruck. We have some questions. Was it premeditated? Who did it? Most importantly though, are the creators of Duolingo mourning the loss of our dearest Duo, or celebrating the genius marketing campaign and all the attention their app is getting? It’s a classic murder mystery, so whodunnit?
Who is Duo?
Duo was not only a friend to all, but he was the mascot of the popular app, Duolingo, created in 2011 to help people learn new languages. Duo, the beautiful giant bird, with electric green feathers and bright orange feet had a huge presence on social media, with a Tik Tok following of over 16 million. Duo would make funny skits encouraging members of the app to log in and complete their lesson for the day, but last week Duo was pronounced dead.
Deceased Duo
On Feburary 25th, 2025, Duolingo’s Tik Tok account released a statement saying “It is with heavy hearts we inform you that Duo, formally known as The Duolingo Owl, is dead…” Fans and popular brands were absolutley crushed and took to the comment section. Instacart stated, “Our deepest condolences. Please let us know if you need anything deleievred during this trying time.” The delicious cereal brand Captain Crunch added, “The internet will never be the same #ripduo.” Even Hilton hotels popped in saying, “This is not a suite feeling.” The tragedy of Duo’s death gained millions of peoples attention across the world. Numerous other well-known brands such as Kleenex, Nerf, Mentos, Jeep, SUNNYD and countless others all chimed in to exclaim their sympathy.
The Geneuis Behind It All
Although this was a calamity, the Public Relations team of the Duolingo app are dancing on Duo’s grave. The tragedy of Duo’s death gained millions of peoples attention across the world and people sparked an interest in said app. Duolingo’s marketing team even went as far as changing all their profile pictures to a flick of dead Duo. Even Dua Lipa joined the sympathy train by taking to X and putting herself next to a picture of Duo stating, “Till death duo part.”
Although a brilliant and cunning plan to bring attention to this app, people around the world are mourning Duo and his positive outlook on life. Are we really going to standby and let the death of our dear friend Duo pass, all for some marketing scheme?
What are your thoughts on Duo’s passing? Let us know @VALLEYmag on Instagram!
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