On December 26, 2024, influencer Hachemi, known as HMI, faced significant public backlash following the abrupt cancellation of his highly anticipated gift distribution event in Lyon. Eiffel Towe the 29-year-old internet celebrity, boasting over 7.7 million followers on Snapchat and 1.2 million on Instagram, had organized the event as part of his 'HMI Tour,' which promised €100,000 worth of gifts through a 'giant hide-and-seek' game. The local prefecture of Rhône intervened, citing risks of public disorder based on previous incidents at similar gatherings held by the influencer.
Authorities officially prohibited the event just before its commencement, fearing the chaos seen at recent gift distributions held by Hachemi. Previous events, especially those in Brussels and Lille, turned unruly, disturbing public peace and requiring considerable police intervention. According to the prefecture, these events resulted in "serious public order disturbances," forcing law enforcement to act under increasingly dangerous conditions.
Despite the restrictions, hundreds of fans gathered near Place Bellecour, eagerly awaiting Hachemi's arrival. Initial excitement turned to frustration and confusion when the cancellation was announced, with some reports indicating about 400 young fans were present, hoping to catch a glimpse of their idol.
It wasn’t long before tensions escalated. Witnesses described scenes of disorder as groups of teenagers began to run rampant, sometimes making reckless dashes across roads. Responding to the chaos, law enforcement deployed tear gas to manage the crowd, which included youth displaying disruptive behaviors. Much of the scene resembled scenes of celebration turning sour, as young fans sought to claim their share of the promised gifts.
Hachemi attempted to assuage his fans' disappointment through social media platforms, expressing his regret over being unable to meet them. "Unfortunately today I cannot come to entertain you in Lyon. It’s not my fault; I would have come, but this decision came from high authorities," he stated on Snapchat. This message underscored the influencer's helplessness against official rulings yet appealed to his loyal followers to disperse peacefully.
The prefecture of Rhône highlighted the dangers posed by the younger audience drawn to Hachemi's fame, making it clear this cancellation was necessary for public safety. They confirmed there were no significant incidents of vandalism or violence beyond crowd management challenges, but the incident underscored the thin line influencers tread between engaging their audience and endangering public order.
The tumultuous gathering served as more than just a single incident; it was part of the narrative surrounding influencer culture and its impact on society. With characterizations of Hachemi quickly rising from viral social media star to significant public figure, the incident raises questions about accountability, safety, and the responsibilities of influencers when they attract large crowds.
Looking back, Hachemi's planned event was meant to be yet another highlight of his rapidly climbing career, showcasing gifts like smartphones and electric scooters to thrilled fans. Yet, this unique brand of social interaction—where influencers become perceived celebrities—can shift quickly from joyful engagement to disorder when not properly managed.
The situation prompted reflections on the actions of local authorities and whether preventive measures are adequate for these high-traffic influencer events. Hachemi's fandom continues to grow, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for his events and how they’ll be conducted safely above the normal enthusiasm from young fans.
Hachemi's rapid ascendance began with social media competitions, posting luxurious prizes ranging from cars to designer handbags. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch the MoulaClub, aimed at aspiring businesspersons. But as his fame enlarges, so does the potential for public disorder whenever he interacts with fans.
Ensuring safety and regulating such events could help mitigate risk. The dual-edged sword of influencer popularity—whether through aspiration or mere celebrity status—remains evident, prompting consideration of how society interprets influencer culture as it evolves. The legacy of Hachemi's canceled event will resonate particularly with both his local and expansive audiences.
While Hachemi's intentions may have been benign, the reality of gathering such large groups without proper oversight poses significant challenges. This incident may very well necessitate discussions around policy, safety, and how future events are organized to maintain harmony between influencer events and public safety.
