Duolingo Owl is dead, company says

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — The Duolingo Owl is dead, according to a statement from the Pittsburgh-based company. 

Duolingo's owl mascot has become a memeable internet sensation for the way some users of the language learning app think he threatens them to do their lessons.

The saga began on Tuesday with an "important announcement" from the company posted to the social media platform X. 

"It is with heavy hearts that we inform you that Duo, formally known as The Duolingo Owl, is dead," the statement read. 

Duolingo said "authorities" are investigating his cause of death and the company is cooperating.

"Tbh, he probably died waiting for you to do your lesson, but what do we know," the statement said. "We are aware he had many enemies, but we kindly ask that you refrain from sharing why you hate him in the comments. If you feel inclined to share, please also include your credit card number so we can automatically sign you up for Duolingo Max in his memory." 

In a statement to KDKA-TV, a spokesperson confirmed that Duo is in fact dead as part of a brand marketing campaign, but people shouldn't actually post their credit card information. 

The plot thickened on Wednesday when Duolingo posted a video to social media asking for help identifying the driver of a Tesla Cybertruck that hit the owl mascot in a parking lot, launching it up into the sky and apparently past the gates of hell. 

"Please post any leads on Twitter," Duolingo wrote, adding, "Thank you for your patience with us during these trying times." 

To mark Duo's death, Duolingo has updated its social media profile pictures and app icon to depict a photo of the bird with Xs for eyes. 

PR Week pointed out that it's not the first time a brand mascot has died. Mr. Peanut died and came back as Baby Nut in 2020. As for what's next for Duo, it seems like mourners will have to wait and see.   

Duolingo says it has embraced a "wholesome and unhinged" brand tone after its green owl mascot turned into an internet sensation. 

"Our mascot was initially designed to encourage regular practice. But once the internet got their hands on him, he grew into a more complicated — even menacing — character with his own lore. He's still cute and cuddly. But he's also willing to temporarily relocate your family to ensure you finish your lessons," the company wrote in its handbook.