Language learning company Duolingo has announced the death of its mascot, the Duolingo Owl.
A bizarre statement shared on their social media accounts read that ‘Duo’, the owl at the centre of the brand (and countless internet memes), is dead – and authorities are investigating his death.
Over the years, the green owl has become a meme thanks to the guilt-tripping and sometimes threatening reminders for users to keep up with their language lessons.
‘Tbh, he probably died waiting for you to do your lesson, but what do we know? We’re aware he had many enemies, but we kindly ask you to refrain from sharing why you hate him in the comments,’ they wrote.
‘If you feel inclined to share, please also share your credit card number so we can automatically sign you up for Duolingo Max in his memory.’
The company, referencing online jokes comparing Duo’s name to popstar Dua Lipa, added: ‘We appreciate you respecting Dua Lipa’s privacy at this time.’
The company also updated their profile photo on X to one of Duo, the now-deceased owl, with Xs over his eyes.
Users were quick to find the humour in the situation: ‘Does this mean no more 6 am notifications threatening me because I haven’t done a lesson before I’ve woken up?’ one asked.
A representative for Duolingo told The Tab: ‘We can confirm the statements in our recent social posts are true. It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mascot, Duo the Owl.
‘For years, he tirelessly reminded millions to do their language lessons—sometimes with gentle nudges, sometimes with sheer, unhinged persistence. But even the most relentless of birds can only take so much. Our app icon reflects this tragic loss with ‘Dead Duo’.
‘There is an ongoing investigation that we cannot comment on extensively at this time.
‘We know no owl as dedicated as Duo just drops dead without a story. Keep an eye on our social channels as we uncover the shocking (and possibly absurd) truth behind his untimely demise.’
It’s a bizarre marketing move, but Duolingo is no stranger to publicity stunts.
Last year in a clip uploaded to TikTok by the official Duolingo account, celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Miami – real name Michael Salzhauer – Duo underwent a consultation, dressed in a hospital gown, with Dr Miami.
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