Why the Viral ‘Sofia Richie Dance’ Is Dividing the Internet [Video]

A new viral TikTok trend, ‘the Sofia Richie dance,’ has sparked division online, with critics slating the seeming shallowness of the craze.

Sofia Richie Grainge, 26, the new mom, fashionista, and daughter of Lionel Richie, joined influencer Jake Shane in a simple shimmy and two-step set to Lola Young’s hit, “Messy.” While the moves might appear harmless, they have stirred debate due to their rapid co-opting by social-media users labeling it as a ‘dance routine’ and creating their own versions.

Jake Shane (@octopusslover8) shared the video on TikTok on November 28, and it has since garnered more than 1.6 million likes and over 21.8 million views, drawing both admiration and criticism.

“So iconic! Where is her set from?” asked Alessandria Ligori, praising Sofia’s effortlessly chic style.

“Ly [love you] guys,” wrote Young, the singer of the song. She has enjoyed TikTok acclaim with the proliferation of videos soundtracking her catchy anthem, which was already …