In the annals of Seattle April Fools’ pranks, the 2023 “news” that Bellevue would be purchasing our iconic Fremont Troll stands as a masterclass in neighborhood-based humor. Secret Seattle published an elaborate article claiming the Troll would be relocated outside Bellevue Square, complete with a “makeover” and name change to be voted on by Bellevue residents.
The prank hit peak Seattle humor with the detail that the VW Beetle clutched in the Troll’s hand would be replaced with a Tesla, now a particularly amusing jab given the Tesla protests.
Other proposed changes included renaming the troll to options like “The Bellevue Bro” or “Trolly McTrollface,” and repainting it in neutrals befitting Bellevue’s aesthetic. Perhaps most telling was the article’s conclusion that Bellevue would give Seattle one of its famous landmarks in return, if only they could think of one!
What other Fremont-related April Fools’ pranks do you remember? Drop me a note in the comments, I’m collecting them for next year’s edition.
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