Erika Kirk, widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, is facing an unexpected—and unsettling—wave of online attention. As she continues to grieve her husband’s death, internet conspiracy theorists have begun circulating claims that she’s secretly JonBenét Ramsey, the child pageant star tragically murdered in 1996.
The bizarre theory began trending after online sleuths pointed out supposed physical similarities between the two women and claimed their ages “match.” In reality, the claim doesn’t hold up—Erika was born in 1988, while JonBenét was born in 1990, and the two are visibly distinct individuals.
The speculation gained traction when YouTuber Rich Lux discussed the theory in a recent video, sparking thousands of comments condemning the conspiracy. “These people are completely creepy and just plain stupid,” one viewer wrote, while others called for “canceling” those spreading the baseless rumor.
Even JonBenét’s father, John Ramsey, weighed in, calling the claims “nonsense.” In a statement to Radar Online, he said, “There are fools in the world—you can’t reason with them. Don’t let them bother you.” His response echoes his long-standing frustration with sensationalized speculation about his daughter’s case.
This isn’t the first time JonBenét’s identity has been twisted into celebrity conspiracy theories. Years earlier, some corners of the internet bizarrely claimed pop star Katy Perry was JonBenét—a theory Perry herself jokingly acknowledged by commenting, “Wait, am I?”
Meanwhile, Erika Kirk has not responded publicly to the rumors. Despite the noise, most online reactions have defended her, urging others to respect her privacy while she mourns.
