A Bet That Grew Out of Control
When Frank Ilett vowed last October not to cut his hair until Manchester United strung together five straight wins, he thought it might last a few months at most. Instead, he is now on Day 360, with his once-trim look transformed into a wild, curly mane that has become an internet phenomenon.
“I just thought it would be a funny thing to do,” Frank told reporters, also stating he did not expect it to go on so long.
His daily updates on The United Strand have gained him more than 421,000 followers on Instagram, with over 35 million views in the past three months.
From Laughs to a Viral Legacy
Frank’s goal was simple — inject humour into the gloom of following Manchester United. He admits he considered making it a three-game challenge, but decided five would “feel more worthy.”
The results have been mixed. United remain inconsistent under manager Ruben Amorim, while Frank’s hair has become both a badge of loyalty and a running joke across fan communities. “I never expected my hair, or my following, to be as big as it has become.” he said.
The Chelsea Incident
But the lighthearted experiment took a darker turn last weekend. During United’s 2-1 win over Chelsea, footage circulated online showing Frank being attacked by a spectator.
A man was seen yanking his hair and hurling insults, calling him an “attention seeking c**t.”
“I thought he was just joking to start with, but then he started yanking my hair,” Frank recalled.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they are investigating the incident in conjunction with Manchester United. “The victim has been contacted and enquiries are ongoing to identify the offender,” a police spokesperson said.
Holding On to the Positives
Despite the assault, Frank insists the majority of his experience has been overwhelmingly supportive. “The whole day was full of hundreds of positive interactions,” he said. “Ninety-nine per cent of all the reactions to this challenge have been nice. But just a few people can ruin it.”
He remains hopeful for a perfect ending: United finally winning five in a row — and one of the players cutting Frank’s hair live at Old Trafford.
“I’m just hopeful I can get a haircut before the end of the year,” Frank admitted. “More than most… I want these wins to come as soon as possible.”
Watch a video here:
@433 This Man United fan will not cut his hair until Man United win 5 games in a row 😂✂️ 🎥 @TheUnitedStrand
Keep up with Frank here:
@theunitedstrand
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
Indonesian Football Fan’s ‘Closer Look’ at Match Ends with Head in Railings
Football Fans in Manchester and Italian Coaches Demand FIFA Expel Israel Over Gaza Genocide
Safuwan and Faisal’s Heartwarming Reunion Steals Spotlight Before Malaysia-Singapore Match
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
