Ghost’s Tobias Forge Warns That Gen Z Will Rise Up to End Social Media — “It’s Going to Get Dark”
via Ghost / YouTube
In a recent interview with Billboard, Ghost frontman Tobias Forge reflected on what separates Millennials and Gen Z in terms of their frustrations with modern life. He noted that while Millennials have long lamented financial hurdles like housing affordability, Gen Z faces something less tangible but equally damaging — the toll of social media. According to Forge, younger generations have grown up in an environment where constant online exposure has shaped their development in troubling ways.
“The big grievance of the Millennials is that we can’t afford to buy a house,” Forge said, “but the Gen Z’ers’ big grievance is that social media ruined their childhood.” He believes this realization will one day lead to a generational backlash. “Not now, not tomorrow, but when they’re in their 20s,” he predicted, suggesting that Gen Z’s disillusionment could eventually drive them to reject the platforms that once defined them.
Forge’s comments tap into an ongoing global discussion about digital dependency and its long-term effects on mental health. As younger generations become more self-aware of how social media shapes their behavior and relationships, some experts predict a cultural shift away from online validation and toward a more balanced, offline existence.
A Rebellion Against Connectivity
Forge didn’t mince words when describing what he sees as the consequences of overexposure to technology. He expressed concern that social media has “hindered” the growth, freedom, and creativity of the youth. In his view, being perpetually connected has done more harm than good — robbing many of the organic experiences that defined life before smartphones.
“Social media and connectivity in that way are gonna be so lame because it’s hindered their development,” he said. “It’s hindered their freedom! It’s hindered so many things for them.” Forge also offered a reminder that life before digital media was not only possible but fulfilling. “If I can somehow be part of giving people the idea that there was a world before this s–t… and that it worked really well! We had tons of fun! It was actually amazing!”
His remarks align with a growing chorus of musicians and public figures calling for mindfulness around digital use. The message resonates particularly with parents, educators, and artists who’ve witnessed firsthand how technology can amplify anxiety, comparison, and isolation among youth.
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Ghost’s Momentum and Global Reach
While Forge’s social critique grabbed attention, Ghost as a band continues to thrive on a global scale. The Swedish rock outfit recently announced their largest world tour yet, set to begin in April 2025. Covering over 55 shows across the U.S., Europe, the UK, and Mexico, the tour marks another milestone in their ascent. Tickets for the U.S. leg went on sale on November 1, 2024, with overwhelming demand from their devoted fanbase.
This tour follows the success of their RE-IMPERATOUR 2023, which concluded with two sold-out performances at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Those shows were later immortalized in their debut feature film RITE HERE RITE NOW, accompanied by a soundtrack album now available on major streaming platforms. Ghost’s ability to merge music, storytelling, and theatrical spectacle continues to set them apart in the modern rock landscape.
Forge’s dual role as both performer and cultural commentator adds depth to the band’s growing legacy. His reflections on technology and humanity echo the same social themes that often weave through Ghost’s lyrics and imagery — exploring the tension between faith, corruption, and modern life.
The Dark Future of Social Media
Beyond the music, Forge’s warning about an impending “dark” phase for social media carries a chilling yet insightful tone. He envisions a world where Gen Z, once raised on screens, will rebel against their digital upbringing. The same generation that grew up tethered to likes and followers may one day lead the charge in dismantling the very systems that shaped them.
As technology continues to evolve, Forge’s remarks serve as both critique and prophecy. Whether this rebellion manifests as digital detoxes, new social platforms, or a cultural shift toward privacy and authenticity remains to be seen. What’s certain is that his message resonates with a growing fatigue surrounding the curated perfection of online life.
Ghost’s ongoing influence ensures that Forge’s ideas reach far beyond interviews. His words not only challenge fans to rethink their relationship with technology but also reaffirm the band’s reputation for blending art, philosophy, and spectacle — always with a touch of the macabre.
