The Junebug Challenge is the latest craze to take over social media. Similar to the Buss It Challenge and the Silhouette Challenge, the Junebug originated on TikTok, but the trend eventually made its way to all social media platforms. The challenge calls for participants to dance along to SpotemGottemβs song, βBeatBox.β And itβs so easy, celebrities like Lil Baby, Saweetie, and more are getting involved.Β
While the Junebug Challenge sounds like another fun way to pass the time, it has also caused some controversy. In early Feb. 2021, rapper Casanova received disciplinary actions at the Westchester County Jail for participating in the challenge during a video visit.Β Β
So, how did the Junebug Challenge start, how do you do it, and who is jumping on the trend? We break it down. Hereβs what you need to know about the Junebug Challenge.
What is the Junebug Challenge and how do you do it?
What song is used in the challenge?
While many credit Bobby Shmurdaβs Shmoney Dance for inspiring the Junebug dance, the official challenge didnβt start until Dec. 2020. The challenge was created by a TikTok influencer who goes by the name Junebug. The Los Angeles-based creative shared his first video on TikTok and Instagram on Dec. 24. He continued to post videos of himself doing the dance in his home and local areas until it went viral.Β
The viral challenge has attracted attention from many celebrities in music and in sports. Lil Baby, Meek Mill, and Michael Rubin recorded a short clip of them participating in the challenge during the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Saweetie photoshopped herself dancing on historic monuments around the world. Other celebrities who shared videos online include Lebron James, Mulatto, Swae Lee, Skai Jackson, and more. See some below.
During a video prison visit with Casanova, who is currently locked up on charges of racketeering, the Brooklyn rapper was recorded dancing along to the Junebug Challenge. The clip was short, but when it crossed the desks of his jail officials, Casanova was disciplined for violating inmate guidelines that state videos and pictures cannot be taken during visits. According to Westchester County Correction Commissioner Joseph Spano, Casanovaβs visitation privileges have been revoked. The rapper also faces disciplinary actions for not wearing a mask during the visit. In early Dec. 2020, Casanova surrendered to federal authorities and began serving time in the Westchester County Jail in New York for his alleged involvement in gang-related crimes including racketeering, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and firearms possession. Casanova has maintained his innocence and pled not guilty to all charges. Itβs unclear how his latest infraction could affect his upcoming trial or sentence.Β