Corey O’Brien sparks outrage among MAGA supporters after sharing a Starbucks cup with Don Lemon’s name, playfully referencing the viral “We Are Charlie Kirk” trend.
Comedian Corey O’Brien has turned a viral MAGA Starbucks trend on its head, drawing sharp reactions online. Over the weekend, O’Brien posted a photo of himself holding a Starbucks cup with journalist Don Lemon’s name written on it. Lemon was recently arrested by federal agents during a protest in Minnesota.
O’Brien, 34, told The Mirror U.S. that the post was an impulsive decision during a stop in New York City on his Red Tour. He said he wanted to bring humor to a serious situation, jokingly referencing the viral song We Are Charlie Kirk with the caption, “We are Don Lemon.”
The post immediately ignited mixed reactions. Some criticized O’Brien for making light of Lemon’s arrest, while others praised the comedic twist on a trend previously embraced by MAGA supporters to pressure Starbucks. O’Brien emphasized that he had written Lemon’s name himself, avoiding putting Starbucks employees in an uncomfortable position.
“It’s a literal joke. This is exactly what you guys did,” O’Brien said, explaining that his comedy serves as pushback against hypocrisy and a way to find levity in a chaotic world.
The post was later reposted by Lemon himself, further amplifying the conversation. O’Brien highlighted that his intent is not to provoke harassment but to “hold up a mirror” to those who have used the original Starbucks trend for political ends.
With reactions ranging from laughter to outrage, O’Brien’s post is yet another example of how comedy is being used to challenge political narratives and spark dialogue online.
