Introduction
Chris Tyler is a fashion model who has become a hot topic on the internet for the past few days. His name has been trending on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, after a viral video claimed that he was turned into a lifelike mannequin by the luxury brand Balenciaga. The video, which was posted by a user named Unanswered Univrs, showed a realistic-looking figure of Chris Tyler displayed in a Balenciaga store window in Paris. The user claimed that the mannequin looked exactly like the model, who went missing in 2020, and speculated that something sinister had happened to him. The video quickly gained millions of views and sparked a lot of controversy and curiosity among netizens. But what is the truth behind this bizarre claim? Is Chris Tyler really missing? Did Balenciaga do something to him? Or is it all just a hoax?
The Viral Video
The video that started the whole frenzy was uploaded by Unanswered Univrs on April 17, 2023. The user, who claimed to be a Paris native, filmed the Balenciaga store window from outside and zoomed in on the mannequin that resembled Chris Tyler. The user said in the video:
This mannequin look like somebody dead… look at his hands… his hands as real as mine. I’ve never seen anybody look so real, holy f**k… if you know anyone missing a Black son look like this in Paris he is in the store in the window.
The user also added a caption that read: “is anyone in Paris missing there son?” The video quickly went viral on TikTok, where it received over 20 million views and 2 million likes. It also spread to other platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, where it generated more reactions and comments. Many people were shocked and disturbed by the video, and wondered if the mannequin was really Chris Tyler, who had been reported missing since December 2020. Some people compared the situation to the horror movie House of Wax, where a group of teenagers are turned into wax figures by a psychotic killer. Others expressed their concern and sympathy for the model and his family, and demanded answers from Balenciaga.
The Missing Model
Chris Tyler, whose full name is Christopher G, is a 22-year-old model from London, UK. He started his modeling career in 2019, when he was scouted by renowned fashion designer Alexander Wang. Wang offered him the opportunity to walk the runway for his prestigious Balenciaga brand, which is known for its avant-garde and innovative designs. Chris Tyler quickly rose to fame and became one of the most sought-after models in the industry. He appeared in several fashion shows and campaigns for Balenciaga, as well as other brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Dior. He also amassed a large fan base on social media, where he posted pictures and videos of his work and personal life.
However, in December 2020, Chris Tyler suddenly disappeared from the public eye. He stopped posting on his Instagram account, which had over 2 million followers, and his phone was switched off. His family and friends reported him missing to the police, and launched a campaign to find him. They also appealed to his fans and the public to help them locate him, and offered a reward for any information. His disappearance caused a lot of speculation and rumors, as some people suggested that he had run away, or that he had been kidnapped, or that he had been involved in some illegal activities. However, none of these theories were confirmed, and his whereabouts remained unknown.
The Balenciaga Mannequin
The mannequin that sparked the viral video was part of Balenciaga’s Spring/Summer 2023 collection, which was unveiled in March 2023. The collection, which was designed by Wang, featured a series of realistic-looking mannequins that were modeled after some of the brand’s most iconic models, including Chris Tyler. The mannequins were made using advanced technology and materials, such as 3D printing, silicone, and synthetic hair, to create a lifelike appearance and texture. The mannequins were also dressed in Balenciaga’s latest designs, which were inspired by futuristic and dystopian themes. The collection was praised by critics and fans for its creativity and originality, and was considered one of the most innovative and groundbreaking collections in the history of fashion.
However, the mannequin that resembled Chris Tyler also attracted a lot of controversy and criticism, especially after the viral video. Many people accused Balenciaga of being insensitive and disrespectful to the missing model and his family, and of exploiting his image and likeness for profit. Some people also questioned the legality and ethics of using a person’s likeness without their consent, and of creating such a realistic replica of a human being. Balenciaga faced a lot of backlash and pressure from the public and the media, and was urged to remove the mannequin from the store window and to issue an apology.
The Truth Revealed
The truth behind the viral video and the Balenciaga mannequin was finally revealed on April 19, 2023, when Chris Tyler himself posted a video on his Instagram account. In the video, he confirmed that he was alive and well, and that he was not turned into a mannequin by Balenciaga. He explained that he had taken a break from modeling and social media for personal reasons, and that he had no idea about the viral video or the mannequin until recently. He said that he was shocked and amused by the whole situation, and that he found it funny that people thought he was dead. He also said that he had no problem with Balenciaga using his likeness for their collection, and that he had given them his permission beforehand. He said that he was flattered and honored to be part of their collection, and that he was a big fan of their work. He also thanked his fans and supporters for their concern and love, and apologized for any confusion or distress he had caused. He said that he was back and ready to resume his modeling career, and that he would share more details about his disappearance and his comeback soon.
The video, which was captioned “I’m alive lol”, received over 50 million views and 10 million likes on Instagram. It also went viral on other platforms, such as TikTok, where it received over 100 million views and 20 million likes. The video cleared up the mystery and the controversy surrounding the viral video and the Balenciaga mannequin, and put an end to the rumors and speculations. Many people were relieved and happy to see that Chris Tyler was alive and well, and welcomed him back with open arms. They also praised him for his sense of humor and his positive attitude, and expressed their excitement for his future projects. Balenciaga also released a statement, in which they confirmed that they had Chris Tyler’s consent to use his likeness for their collection, and that they had no intention of harming or disrespecting him or his family. They also said that they were glad that he was safe and sound, and that they looked forward to working with him again.
Conclusion
The story of Chris Tyler Balenciaga Model is a fascinating and bizarre one, that shows how the internet and social media can create and spread false and sensational claims, and how they can also reveal and debunk them. It also shows how the fashion industry can push the boundaries of creativity and technology, and how it can generate both admiration and controversy. The story also highlights the importance of verifying the sources and the facts before believing and sharing anything online, and of respecting the privacy and the rights of the people involved. Finally, the story also showcases the talent and the charisma of Chris Tyler, who has proven to be a resilient and remarkable model, and who has captivated and inspired millions of people around the world.