In a bizarre twist of nostalgia, the internet insists that comedian Sinbad starred in a nonexistent film about a genie called “Shazaam,” despite the fact that this movie never actually existed. As if 2016 couldn’t get any more surreal, some folks are actively trying to conjure up a film that has never graced our screens.
The rumor, claiming that Sinbad, born David Adkins, played a genie in this fictional flick during his fleeting fame in the late ’80s and ’90s, has been thoroughly debunked by fact-checking sites like Snopes. Yet, thousands continue to cling to this myth. Fueled by a cleverly doctored image of a VHS tape, the false memory has gained traction online, demonstrating that in the age of fake news, anything can become “real” in the minds of the masses.
This isn’t the first time Sinbad has been at the center of a viral misconception—though he certainly enjoyed a thriving career with sold-out shows in reality! The phenomenon at play here is known as the “Mandela Effect.” According to an article on Buzzfeed, it describes those strange instances when many people swear they remember something one way, only to discover they’re mistaken. The term itself stems from a widespread false memory that Nelson Mandela died in prison during the ’80s, when he actually lived for several more decades, passing away in 2013. Most examples of the Mandela Effect are much less significant, often revolving around silly pop culture icons.
Trust me, you’re not losing your mind. If you remember a movie that never existed, it doesn’t mean you’re crazy. I remember it too! I can vividly picture Sinbad decked out in genie garb, and there’s no way I’d fabricate something so absurd. Why would I willingly torment myself with the idea of a movie featuring Sinbad as a genie? It sounds like a dreadful nightmare, and I can’t even muster up the interest to watch the film where Robin Williams plays a genie!
Clearly, there’s a conspiracy afoot. Someone seems intent on planting false memories of atrocious ’90s films in our heads, as if we didn’t already have Shaquille O’Neal’s entire filmography to reminisce about. Is 2016 over yet?
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In summary, the belief that Sinbad starred in the phantom movie “Shazaam” is a prime example of collective false memory, showcasing just how easily misinformation can spread in today’s digital landscape.