Dean Withers, a 21-year-old livestreamer, went viral after his emotional reaction to the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Speaking to his 4.3 million followers, Withers admitted, “I just cried in front of 250,000 people.”

Though politically opposed to Kirk, Withers condemned the violence, calling it “disgusting” and “abhorrent.” His message of empathy drew praise across party lines during a moment of national grief.

Withers, raised in a conservative household in Colorado, rose to prominence in 2023 after shifting to progressive causes. His viral debates, such as “Can 1 Woke Teen Survive 20 Trump Supporters?” earned him a reputation as a sharp voice in online politics.

Charlie Kirk was shot on September 10 during a “prove me wrong” debate event at Utah Valley University. A single bullet, reportedly fired from a rooftop by someone in dark clothing, fatally struck him in the neck. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he later died. The FBI continues searching for the shooter after releasing two detained suspects.

Kirk, known for his pro-Trump stance, is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, their daughter, and young son. His death sparked nationwide mourning beyond politics.