Picture an Australian satirist who turned mundane email exchanges into viral comedy gold—meet David Thorne! Known as 'The Internet’s Evil Genius,' Thorne’s razor-sharp wit and deadpan humor have captivated readers worldwide through his website, 27bslash6. From offering to pay a bill with a seven-legged spider drawing to trolling coworkers with pie charts, his irreverent style has made him a digital legend.
Born in Geraldton, Western Australia, Thorne’s journey from graphic designer to New York Times bestselling author is as unconventional as his comedy. His unique ability to find humor in the absurdities of everyday life has earned him spots on shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Late Night with Conan O’Brien, cementing his place as a master of modern satire.
The Making of David Thorne
David Thorne was born on February 23, 1972, in Geraldton, a coastal town in Western Australia. Growing up, he was drawn to science fiction and comedy, citing influences like Australian satirists Chris Lilley and Shaun Micallef. His early career in graphic design was, by his own admission, stiflingly uncreative, pushing him to find an outlet in writing. What started as a way to combat boredom—penning sarcastic emails to colleagues—evolved into the creation of 27bslash6, a nod to George Orwell’s address and Terry Gilliam’s film Brazil.
Thorne’s big break came in 2008 when an email exchange, where he offered to settle a $233 chiropractic bill with a crudely drawn spider, went viral. The post skyrocketed his site’s traffic from a few hundred hits a day to half a million, crashing servers and launching him into the global spotlight.
David Thorne’s Unforgettable Stories
Thorne’s humor is biographical, often poking fun at family, coworkers, or unsuspecting email correspondents. His website, 27bslash6, is a treasure trove of satirical essays and email exchanges that blend shock humor with merciless wit. His first book, The Internet Is a Playground (2011), compiles these viral hits, including the infamous spider email and 'Missing Missy,' where he hilariously misdesigns a lost cat poster. The book debuted at number four on the New York Times Best Seller list and has been translated into multiple languages.
His follow-up, I’ll Go Home Then, It’s Warm and Has Chairs (2012), doubled the first book’s sales in its opening month, offering fresh essays and emails. Walk It Off, Princess (2017) showcases a more vulnerable side, blending humor with reflections on life’s joys. Thorne’s style—dry, provocative, yet never outright rude—walks a fine line, making readers laugh while squirming at his audacity, like when he RSVPs to an uninvited party in 'Party in Apartment 3.'
Other notable works include That’s Not How You Wash a Squirrel (2015) and Wrap It In a Bit of Cheese Like You’re Tricking the Dog (2016), both packed with new essays that continue his signature blend of cynicism and absurdity. His ability to turn mundane interactions into laugh-out-loud narratives has made him a standout in digital comedy.
Why David Thorne Matters
David Thorne redefined online humor by proving that everyday interactions could be transformed into high art. His work has inspired a generation of internet comedians to find humor in the mundane, while his viral emails remain some of the most forwarded content ever. Despite controversies, including accusations of cyberbullying from former colleagues, Thorne’s unapologetic approach continues to resonate with fans who appreciate his fearless satire.
His influence extends beyond books, with appearances on major talk shows and features in global media, from BBC Radio to The Sydney Morning Herald. Thorne’s legacy lies in his ability to make us laugh at life’s absurdities while challenging social norms with a mischievous grin.
- Born: February 23, 1972, Geraldton, Western Australia
- Key Works: The Internet Is a Playground, I’ll Go Home Then, Walk It Off, Princess
- Notable Achievement: New York Times Best Seller (2011)
Ready to dive into Thorne’s wickedly funny world? Grab The Internet Is a Playground and brace yourself for a masterclass in digital mischief!