Social media thrives on the audacious, but Florida influencer David Humphlett may have taken the pursuit of views to a perilous new level. Humphlett, bitten by a venomous eastern diamondback rattlesnake, recorded his ordeal in a now-viral video rather than rushing for immediate medical care. “Well, Iโm cooked,” he says in the clip, encapsulating both his grim predicament and a stark commentary on the lengths some will go for online fame.
The video, shared across platforms like TikTok and Instagram, shows Humphlett acknowledging the bite’s severity while describing the rapid onset of symptoms, including numbness and swelling. โIt felt like an alligator,โ Humphlett reportedly said of the pain during his hospitalization. After receiving over 80 vials of antivenom and spending weeks in the ICU, he is expected to survive, though not without lingering effects, such as impaired mobility in his ankle.
Humphlett’s decision to record the moment rather than immediately seeking aid drew sharp criticism. On Reddit, one commenter pointed out the reckless nature of the act: โRecording yourself instead of immediately seeking medical attention? Every second matters as the venom spreads.โ Another sarcastically remarked, “Well, he influenced me to not be this dumb.” These reactions echo a broader concern about the influence of social media stunts, where the drive for likes and shares often overrides basic safety considerations.
The influencer’s supporters argue that the video might have been shot after calling for help, suggesting Humphlett was documenting the ordeal for awareness rather than entertainment. However, critics remain skeptical, given the performative nature of much online content.
Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, native to Florida, are renowned for their potent venom, which can cause severe injury or even death if untreated. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the species is the largest rattlesnake in the U.S., reaching lengths of up to eight feet. Fatalities from untreated bites range between 10-20%, underscoring the severity of Humphlettโs situation.
Humphlettโs supporters have since launched a fundraiser to help cover his extensive medical bills, which include treatments beyond antivenom. His case has also sparked renewed discussions about wilderness safety and the responsibilities influencers have when sharing risky content.
For Humphlett, the consequences of his stunt go beyond the physical scars. While his video may bolster his following, it has reignited debates around social media’s impact on personal safety. As one Redditor aptly put it, “Funny how influencers are the least worthy of having influence.” Whether the video ultimately raises awareness about snake safety or simply serves as a cautionary tale about the pursuit of internet fame remains to be seen.
