Belfast man hoodwinks TV station with Sheen tweeter hoax

WANT to learn the ways of a drunken oaf? Able to say “this is Tiger blood” in frankly the most intimidating accent known to man? How about hoodwinking a TV station with a fake exclusive?

Then roll up, roll up, the Charlie Sheen circus is in town. And, guess what, you’re the latest “star” attraction. Whether you are lying or not.

University of Ulster design student Jonny Campbell became a social and mainstream sensation yesterday after claiming he was troubled 45-year-old Sheen’s new intern.

The Northern Irish man said he beat more than 82,000 competitors to the real role, which involves an eight-week US placement managing Hollywood’s “most trending” Tweeter.

However, while UTV gave him extensive publicity, last night it appeared the entire story was itself a Sheen-esque prank.

As Mr Campbell continued to claim the victory, eagle-eyed social media members spotted that frames of his “winning” video application, when taken together, read: “March 29. I will. Lie. And. Say. #jonnycampbell. Have (sic). Won. Charlie Sheen’s #internship.”

At 11pm Irish time, the official site for the competition still read: “So many great candidates, we’re working to get the top 50.”

Campbell’s alleged winning video discussed using social media during humanitarian crises with “a disaster hashtag”, new ways to raise money and how to bring troubled people to safety. Ironically, these suggestions could arguably describe any role with Charlie Sheen.

While Mr Sheen had yet to bring clarity to the issue last night, Mr Campbell - whose Twitter account name is @jonnycampbell - was continuing to insist all was as it seemed.

Just like the Hollywood star, the student appears to enjoy a prank. And, if Mr Sheen’s recent bizarre antics are anything to go by, it would not be surprising if the actor orchestrated the event to prove to his fans — and media critics — he is still, as he insists, “winning”.