Snapchat has dispelled a popular social media rumor that its viral, new crying face filter is based on actress Amber Heard weeping in court. The social media platform cleared the air in a statement to TMZ.
For the digitally uninitiated, the filter is essentially an augmented-reality lens that you superimpose over people’s faces, turning them into a blubbering mess like a virtual Greek tragedy mask. The feature amassed over 1.3 billion Snapchat impressions since it premiered last week as social media users throw crying faces over videos across the web.
At the same time, rumors began swirling that the feature was inspired by Heard’s tearful testimony in the ongoing defamation suit brought against her by ex-husband Johnny Depp. The “Aquaman” actress broke down in court last week, prompting die-hard Depp supporters to accuse her of “fake crying” and being a “bad actress.”