April Fools’ Day is meant for harmless jokes, but sometimes pranks cross the line, causing unnecessary panic and confusion. This year, NBA legend Dennis Rodman became the latest victim of an online death hoax, forcing him to clear the air. As social media continues to amplify misinformation, let’s take a look at Rodman’s response and five other pranks that spiraled out of control.
Dennis Rodman’s Death Hoax
On April 1, 2025, rumors began circulating online that Dennis Rodman had died in an autoerotic asphyxiation accident. Several parody accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook falsely reported that the 63-year-old basketball star had been “found dead in his apartment.”
The rumor quickly spread, with searches like “Is Dennis Rodman dead?” and “Dennis Rodman cause of death” trending on Google. However, Rodman took to Facebook and Instagram to dismiss the claim, writing, “Yesss Sirr Alive and Well.” Fans immediately responded with relief and frustration, criticizing those who spread the false news.
One user wrote, “I’m so sick of people playing on other people’s demise!!! Glad you’re alive & well.” Another joked, “I was just about to put in my bereavement days. I love you.”
Rodman, known for his eccentric personality and larger-than-life career, is a five-time NBA champion and one of the best rebounders in basketball history. Beyond the court, he has made a name for himself in professional wrestling and reality television. While this hoax was debunked quickly, not all pranks end so harmlessly.
Five April Fools’ Pranks That Went Too Far
- BBC’s 1957 Spaghetti Tree Hoax
One of the most infamous pranks in history, the BBC aired a segment on April 1, 1957, claiming that Swiss farmers were harvesting spaghetti from trees. Viewers called in, asking how they could grow their own spaghetti trees. While this hoax was relatively harmless, it highlighted how easily the public could be misled by convincing storytelling. - Google’s Mic Drop Feature (2016)
Google introduced a “Mic Drop” feature in Gmail, allowing users to send emails with a GIF of a Minion dropping a microphone. However, this backfired when people accidentally used it in serious emails, leading to embarrassment and even job losses. Google quickly removed the feature and issued an apology. - DJ Khaled’s Fake Plane Crash (2021)
In a misguided attempt at humor, a social media post claimed that music producer DJ Khaled had survived a plane crash. Fans were left in shock before realizing it was an April Fools’ joke. Many criticized the prank for being insensitive, especially given past aviation tragedies. - Elon Musk’s Tesla Bankruptcy Tweet (2018)
On April 1, 2018, Elon Musk tweeted that Tesla had gone bankrupt, claiming he had been “found passed out against a Tesla Model 3, surrounded by Teslaquila bottles.” While some found it amusing, Tesla’s stock briefly dipped, alarming investors. Musk later clarified it was a joke, but the prank had real financial consequences. - Burger King’s Left-Handed Whopper (1998)
Burger King published an ad claiming they had created a “Left-Handed Whopper,” designed for left-handed customers by rotating the condiments 180 degrees. Thousands of people visited stores requesting the special burger, proving how easily consumers can be fooled.
The Danger of Viral Hoaxes
While April Fools’ pranks are meant to be lighthearted, some can cause real harm. Misinformation spreads rapidly on social media, leading to unnecessary panic. In Rodman’s case, fans were genuinely concerned for his well-being before he cleared up the rumors himself.
As the internet continues to evolve, distinguishing between jokes and misinformation becomes increasingly challenging. A good rule of thumb? If a claim seems shocking or extreme, verify it before believing or sharing it. And when it comes to April Fools’ Day, it’s always best to keep the humor lighthearted and harmless.