Greetings!
Here are the latest trending internet culture stories today:
The internet collectively decided that something weird was happening with President Donald Trump’s health over the weekend, we’re appreciating 2025’s best TikTok tracks because there’s no clear “song of the summer” this year, and a young boy who was rescued from walking along the monorail at Hersheypark has sparked much discussion online.
See you next time!
— W.J.
⚡️ Today in Internet Culture
Donald Trump resurfaced with a golf photo amid health rumors, but sleuths immediately claimed the timeline was off
After several days out of the public eye, President Donald Trump resurfaced online with a photo meant to silence growing rumors about his health, fueled by online speculation about his appearance, including claims of swollen ankles and visible bruises on his hand.
On Sunday, Aug. 31, Trump attempted to quiet those concerns. He posted an image of himself on Truth Social golfing with former NFL coach Jon Gruden, writing, “Great playing Golf with Jon Gruden — A really nice guy, and true character!” However, commenters suggested the photo may have been from a previous outing.
There might not be a “song of the summer” this year, but these TikTok hits fill the void
To put it bluntly, the vibes this summer have been completely non-existent. We’ve had Brat summer, Barbenheimer, and plenty of hot girl summers, but there’s something a little… off about this year.
This is because 2025 is missing one major thing, and that’s a song of the summer. While we’ve had a steady stream of music, we haven’t had a particular moment or song that’s completely transformed pop culture. While the radio and Spotify are somewhat lacking, TikTok has plenty of contenders for song of the summer.
“The people telling him to stop are idiots”: Dramatic rescue at Hersheypark after boy is found walking alone on monorail track
A good Samaritan rescued a young boy after he was spotted wandering on the track of an elevated ride at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania on Aug 30. The heart-stopping moment, caught on video, stunned parkgoers and quickly spread online.
The family-friendly ride usually provides guests with an audio tour of the theme park. The route is along an elevated path about 20 feet above ground, and it was fortunately not operating on Saturday.
🕸️ Crawling the Web
🎮 Fans say Alex Garland’s knowledge of Elden Ring proves he’s fit to direct the film after news that he delivered a 160-page draft to win over FromSoftware’s Hidetaka Miyazaki.
👰♀️ A newly-married bride laughed as her husband panicked on a gondola ride, and commenters are clashing over whether it’s cruel or not.
🙏 Geoguessr star Rainbolt helped family track down a 40-year-old memorial to honor a dying grandmother’s wish.
🌮 Taco Bell is bringing back fan favorites like the 7-layer burrito and Cool Ranch Doritos tacos with its newly announced Y2K-era menu.
🙅♂️ A Pediatrician shared advice for parents on TikTok after he saved his daughter from choking.
🧸 What are shoulder plushies? The Disney “shoulder pals” trend, explained.
🔥 Hot on the Dot
This was the most-read story on the Daily Dot yesterday:
➤ This church introduced a “hot priest”—the comments were so thirsty, they had to turn them off