The videos making these allegations garnered millions of views on both TikTok and YouTube.
In late October 2023, viral videos began circulating on various social media platforms, alleging that NBA champion Dwyane Wade and actor Gabrielle Union were heading for divorce, with Union accusing Wade of infidelity. However, these claims were baseless.
The rumors stemmed from public knowledge about Wade and Union’s relationship history. In January 2013, they briefly split, but reconciled later that year and became engaged in December. However, during their separation, Wade fathered a child, a fact mentioned in the viral videos.
The first mention of these unfounded claims appeared on a Deux U podcast episode released on Oct. 26, 2023. The podcast, known for unverified celebrity gossip, relayed anonymous messages alleging trouble in Wade and Union’s relationship, though no concrete evidence of cheating was provided.
Shortly after, a viral YouTube video titled “Gabrielle Union DIVORCES Dwyane Wade For Cheating On Her” was posted by the channel Misstee on Oct. 30, 2023. The video referenced the Deux U podcast claims and garnered significant views across platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Facebook.
A subsequent video by the same channel, titled “Gabrielle Union EXPOSES Dwayne Wade’s GAY Affairs,” continued spreading the unverified claims. Despite the lack of evidence, these videos generated substantial engagement due to their mixture of factual relationship history and emotionally charged language.
Disclaimers on the videos acknowledged the hypothetical nature of the claims and noted the absence of reporting from reputable media outlets. Nevertheless, the clips capitalized on sensationalism, leading some viewers to interpret them as genuine news.
While the rumors surrounding Wade and Union lacked credibility, they underscored the prevalence of misleading celebrity gossip online. Similar false claims have circulated in the past, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in navigating digital media.
