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Twitter has recently changed its verification system, requiring users to pay a monthly fee of $8 to subscribe to its 'Twitter Blue' service if they want to keep or get their blue tick badges. This decision has sparked controversy and backlash from many users, especially celebrities who have lost their verified status.
One of them is American actor Charlie Sheen, who is known for his roles in films such as Platoon, Wall Street, and The Three Musketeers, and TV shows such as Spin City and Two and a Half Men. Sheen has been vocal about his displeasure with the new policy, and has repeatedly asked Twitter CEO Elon Musk to restore his blue check.
On Saturday, Sheen tweeted a sarcastic message to Musk, saying "I'm sorry your fancy rocket exploded in spectacular fashion. I'm certain you'll build an even bigger and more explody one. Now, may I please have my blue check back? It would mean a lot to me. Thank you in advance."
He was referring to the recent failure of SpaceX's Starship SN11 prototype, which exploded during a high-altitude test flight.dear @elonmusk
— Charlie Sheen (@charliesheen) April 22, 2023
i’m sorry your fancy rocket
exploded in spectacular fashion. I’m certain you’ll build an even bigger and more explody one.
now,
may i please have my
blue check back?
it would mean a lot to me.
thank you in advance,
sincerely - c sheen
Musk, who is also known for his witty and sometimes controversial tweets, replied to Sheen with a simple "I feel your pain". It is unclear whether Musk was being sincere or sarcastic, or whether he intends to do anything about Sheen's request.
Sheen is not the only celebrity who has lost his blue tick due to the new policy. Other notable names include singer Mariah Carey, rapper Snoop Dogg, actress Jennifer Aniston, and comedian Kevin Hart. Some of them have expressed their frustration and confusion on social media, while others have opted to ignore the change or embrace it.
Twitter has defended its decision to introduce 'Twitter Blue', saying that it is a way to offer users more features and benefits, such as undo tweet, bookmark folders, reader mode, and dedicated customer support. It also said that it will continue to verify accounts that meet its criteria for authenticity, notability, and activity.
However, many users have criticized Twitter for being greedy and unfair, arguing that verification should not be based on money, but on merit and public interest. They have also questioned the value and quality of the 'Twitter Blue' features, saying that they are not worth paying for or already available elsewhere.
What do you think of Twitter's new verification system? Do you think Charlie Sheen deserves his blue tick back? Let us know in the comments below.
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