Tuesday marked the annual celebration of April Fools’ Day, a day when pranks and hoaxes run rampant. While many people enjoy playing tricks on their loved ones, in recent years, the celebration has expanded to include brands and even news outlets in on the fun. This year was no exception, with a plethora of viral pranks making their way across social media and news feeds. To help you separate fact from fiction, Yahoo News has compiled a list of some of the most notable April Fools’ Day jokes that had everyone talking.
One of the most talked-about hoaxes this April Fools’ Day was the claim that Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway had acquired Tesla for a staggering $1 trillion in cash. This news was reported by GoBankingRates in a self-described “satirical” article, designed to catch readers off guard. The article humorously suggested that Buffett had been secretly driving a Cybertruck around his Nebraska neighborhood at night, despite his public stance on not understanding tech companies. In reality, Buffett has shown no interest in acquiring Tesla. At the 2023 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, Buffett praised Elon Musk as a “brilliant, brilliant guy” but emphasized that they did not want to compete with him. The late Charlie Munger, Buffett’s former right-hand man, echoed this sentiment, stating that they did not want to take on that much risk.
Golf enthusiasts were abuzz with excitement when 15-time major golf champion Tiger Woods announced on X that he would be playing in the Masters next week. Woods’ post claimed that his rigorous training, including sleeping in a hyperbaric chamber and explosive lifts, had him ready to return to the course. However, this was nothing more than an April Fools’ joke. Golfweek quickly clarified that Woods’ only planned event for next week was the Champions Dinner at Augusta National. Woods himself confirmed the prank, admitting that his Achilles injury was still a significant issue, and he wouldn’t be able to play professional golf until at least 2026.
Another headline that caught many off guard was the claim that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was distributing $1 million stimulus checks to every Republican in the U.S. This was yet another April Fools’ joke from GoBankingRates. In reality, DOGE is not sending out any stimulus checks, regardless of political affiliation. While both Elon Musk and President Trump have praised DOGE for its supposed savings, a Yahoo News analysis found that the actual savings itemized on DOGE’s website were significantly lower than the $140 billion claimed. The idea of distributing a portion of these savings as stimulus checks to Americans, as suggested by businessman James Fishback and supported by Musk, remains highly unlikely according to budget experts.
New Jersey’s official Instagram account had residents and internet users alike scratching their heads with a post claiming that the state was planning to build Mount Jonas. This monument, supposedly a replica of Mount Rushmore, would feature the faces of the Jonas brothers—Kevin, Joe, and Nick—who grew up in the state. The post was accompanied by a humorous comment from Kevin Jones, who jokingly approved the message. This prank was a light-hearted way for the state to get in on the April Fools’ Day fun, adding a touch of humor to the day’s festivities.
Elon Musk’s name was once again in the headlines on April Fools’ Day, but not for any of his usual ventures. GoBankingRates jokingly reported that Musk was donating $43,000 Tesla cars to all 535 members of Congress. While this would have been a bold move, it was nothing more than a prank. In reality, there is a growing trend of public figures distancing themselves from Tesla due to Musk’s recent actions and involvement in government affairs. Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, for example, has publicly ditched his Tesla. On the other hand, President Trump has been a vocal supporter of Tesla, even announcing his intention to buy a Tesla himself during a photo op outside the White House on March 11.
April Fools’ Day is a time for fun and laughter, but it also serves as a reminder to approach news with a critical eye. With the rise of social media and the ease of sharing information, it’s more important than ever to verify the sources of the news we consume. While some hoaxes are harmless and meant for a good laugh, others can spread misinformation if taken seriously. As we navigate through the digital age, let’s enjoy the pranks but also stay vigilant and informed.
