Why a photo of Erika Kirk with Disney star David Henrie is suddenly going viral sparking online buzz

A long-forgotten Instagram post has suddenly found new life online. An old photo showing Erika Kirk alongside former Disney star David Henrie has resurfaced, confusing social media users who never expected the two to cross paths. The rediscovered image has sparked curiosity, jokes, and renewed attention around both figures.

ALSO READ: Trump suffers fresh embarrassment as Kennedy Center speech becomes least-watched ever

Why has the old photo gone viral now?

The resurfaced image dates back to 2014, when Erika Kirk posted a photo of herself with actor David Henrie on Instagram. Henrie, now 36, is best known for playing Justin Russo on Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place. Kirk, 37, shared the photo with a reflective caption that hinted at a close bond, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

“You have one life... make it your mission to use that precious gift to change the world,” she wrote.
“So blessed to have friends like @davidlhenrie who understand that calling,” she added.

More than a decade later, the photo has reappeared on social media, prompting users to revisit the original post and share their reactions. One follower commented, “What a random post to see lol. 2014.” Another joked, “I never conceptualized these two being from the same cinematic universe.” A third summed up the confusion by writing, “Everything I learn about her is so confusing.”

ALSO READ: Quote of the Day by Maya Angelou: 'Prejudice is a burden that …'— Top quotes by the world-famous author

What is Erika Kirk’s public role today?

Interest in the photo has grown alongside Erika Kirk’s increased public presence. She is the widow of conservative media figure Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated while speaking at a Turning Point event at Utah Valley University on September 10. He was 31.

Authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with murder, alleging he fired from a rooftop during Charlie Kirk’s speech. Since her husband’s death, Erika has stepped into a more visible leadership role, becoming chief executive of Turning Point USA, a position she inherited.

Her appointment has drawn widespread criticism, but she has remained highly active in conservative media. Following the shooting, she appeared frequently on Fox News, gave multiple interviews, and was seen attending high-profile political events alongside Donald Trump, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

ALSO READ: Quote of the Day by Sigmund Freud: 'One day, in retrospect …'— Top quotes by the father of psychoanalysis

What has David Henrie said about faith and controversy?

David Henrie has not publicly declared his political views, but he has spoken openly about his faith. In 2024, he reflected on his role in the film Little Boy, which premiered in 2015, saying it helped “reignite” his belief in God.

“When we were on set, there were people of all different beliefs,' he told CBN. "I had no clue that there were Christians behind the movie. I will forever be grateful for Little Boy because it was the film that saved my life.”

Henrie has also discussed portraying a young Ronald Reagan in the film Reagan. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, he described it as a “universal film with universal values and principles.” When the project was announced in 2015, he shared his excitement on Instagram, writing, “So excited for this and blessed to play such an important figure in our nations history. I'll be playing lifeguard Reagan... Oh boy short shorts here I come haha.”

Despite his wholesome Disney image, Henrie has faced controversy. In 2018, he was sentenced to two years’ probation after bringing a loaded gun to LAX. At the time, he addressed the incident publicly, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

“I take responsibility for the situation at LAX today,” he wrote on X. “I unintentionally brought my legally owned gun which is registered in my name to the airport. I am so sorry for any trouble it caused, but I am appreciative of TSA's efforts in implementing the safety laws that are in place to protect our beautiful country. More than anything I am humiliated and embarrassed that this even happened. But am thankful to the TSA, LAPD and all involved today for their kindness and their professionalism during this process."

FAQs

Why are people confused by the photo?
Many didn’t expect a Disney star and a conservative media figure to have been close friends.

Did David Henrie comment on the resurfaced image?
No, Henrie has not publicly addressed the photo’s reappearance.