Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in January 2024.
In a candid interview with Fox News Digital, Ali C. Lopez, a transgender influencer who unexpectedly became an internet meme, is raising concerns about society’s growing sensitivity and what she perceives as a decline in masculinity.
Reflecting on her sudden fame as an internet meme, Lopez describes the experience as surreal and emotionally charged. She emphasizes the range of emotions, from excitement to nervousness, that accompanied her newfound viral status.
Initially an obscure influencer, Lopez’s image became a meme after her appearance on the podcast “Whatever,” a platform that delves into debates around feminism, traditional values, and gender roles. Discussing the challenges of modern dating, Lopez expresses worries about the diminishing presence of masculinity in society.
Lopez emphasizes the difficulty of finding individuals capable of handling traditionally masculine tasks, such as fixing a flat tire, which she values in a partner. She challenges men to embrace their traditional roles, stating, “I feel like a lot of [men] need to start being [men].”
The transgender influencer believes that some men expect a princess treatment in relationships, advocating for a more balanced dynamic. She encourages men to contribute equally, both emotionally and financially, in relationships.
Lopez gained widespread attention for a clip in which she confidently rates herself as a “fat f—ing ten.” This moment led to her becoming the subject of the “Gorlock the Destroyer” meme, circulating on platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
While expressing mixed feelings about the meme’s name, Lopez acknowledges the days it bothers her but admits to considering embracing it. Despite being labeled “Gorlock the Destroyer,” Lopez remains committed to respectful and open discussions, particularly regarding transgender issues.
In a departure from some of her Gen Z peers, Lopez advocates for patience and understanding in debates surrounding gender identity. She urges against immediately labeling others and encourages a more tolerant approach to differing viewpoints.
Addressing the generational gap on transgender issues, Lopez emphasizes the need for patience and understanding from both sides. She calls for respect and love, even if full understanding may not be present.
Lamenting the current sensitivity in society, Lopez encourages people to chill out unless faced with direct negativity. She specifically calls for understanding when it comes to parents, acknowledging the challenges older generations face in adapting to today’s more accepting culture.
“It’s getting out of control,” Lopez said. For example, Lopez ideally wants to find someone who can handle things that have been ascribed in the past as traditionally masculine, like fixing a flat tire. But that’s not easy to find these days, Lopez explained.
“At least for me, you better be able to do more than what my dad can do. Because if I have to call my dad to do something for me and not you. Why are you here?”
“I feel like a lot of [men] need to start being [men]. When it comes to the male world… men nowadays are expecting princess treatment,” Lopez.
“I just see a lot of men expecting women in the relationship… to go above and beyond and like them to almost do nothing. …Even some of my friends… [I ask], ‘Why are you paying, covering this?’… At least be 50/50 [on paying for things].”
One of the most popular clips of Lopez on the internet is when she was asked to rate herself on a scale of attractiveness (1-10) during a “Whatever” episode.
Lopez stated, “[I’m] a fat f—ing ten.”
The moment catapulted Lopez to become the subject of a meme known as “Gorlock the Destroyer,” which gained millions of views on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
Lopez discussed having mixed feelings over the name “Gorlock the Destroyer.”
“If I’m 100% honest, there are days where it still bothers me that I get called that… There was even a time I was like, ‘should I just even embrace [‘Gorlock the Destroyer’] at this point?’ I don’t even care.”
Lopez described being different from her Gen Z peers, who may get triggered or shy away from debating issues surrounding gender identity.
As long as there is respect, issues such as transgenderism should be able to be peacefully discussed, Lopez said.
“It’s never sat right with me to just immediately throw labels [like calling someone transphobic]. To be like, ‘You’re this, and you’re that and I don’t like you because [we disagree],” Lopez said.
“I just wish people were more patient on both ends,” Lopez said. “I’m just a very patient and understanding person. And I’ve always been like that. And that’s one of my values that I’ve always tried to put forward, in like any decision or person that I meet or anything.”
Lopez said that young people don’t respect that older generations may feel differently about transgender issues, and said that they should “give their parents a break.”
