From Catfish to Celebrity: American Woman's Unexpected Fame in Pakistan

Onijah Andrew Robinson, a 33-year-old American, found viral fame in Pakistan after meeting her young online lover, Nidal Ahmed Memon. A tale of deception, culture clash, and public spectacle ensues as Robinson is embraced as a local celebrity, generating media buzz and online memes.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 05-02-2025 21:13 IST | Created: 05-02-2025 21:13 IST
From Catfish to Celebrity: American Woman's Unexpected Fame in Pakistan
Onijah Robinson, an American woman, becomes a viral sensation in Pakistan after her controversial journey to meet her online lover. (Photo: X/ @CollinRugg). Image Credit: ANI
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  • Pakistan

Onijah Andrew Robinson, a 33-year-old from New York, has unexpectedly become a viral sensation in Pakistan. This surprising twist comes after her tumultuous journey to meet her online romantic partner, the 18-year-old Nidal Ahmed Memon, in Karachi. The story, initially reported by The Express Tribune, unraveled dramatically when it was disclosed that Robinson had been using a digital filter to appear as a white blonde woman during her virtual interactions with Memon. Despite the initial deception, the duo reportedly entered into an online Nikah, an Islamic marriage ceremony.

However, upon Robinson's arrival in Pakistan, she faced immediate rejection from Memon's mother, who was discontented with the relationship dynamics, particularly Robinson's age and the misleading persona. Memon seemed inclined to pursue the relationship, speculatively drawn by the prospect of an American green card. The situation escalated when Memon and his mother abruptly left, stranding Robinson. Nonetheless, she resolutely set up outside Memon's apartment, becoming the focal point of local curiosity and media attention, according to The Express Tribune.

Robinson's stay outside the residence incited viral content as her public outbursts, monetary demands, and odd behaviors sparked a flurry of memes. Her activities, including peculiar McDonald orders and unsuccessful psychiatric facility check-ins, contributed to her growing notoriety. Despite repeated offers of assistance from local humanitarian organizations like Chippa, Robinson's continued refusal added to the unfolding drama.

As Robinson's presence persisted, she garnered proposals from local men, who saw marriage as a potential ticket to the US. Moreover, she cultivated friendships with local residents and policewomen, underscoring Pakistan's cultural hospitality. As reported by The Express Tribune and ANI, Robinson remains in Pakistan, an unlikely local celebrity, with her experiences and makeover sessions continuously shared online, preserving her social media eminence.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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