A San Francisco AI startup called Cluely is at the centre of a viral moment this time, not for its software, but for a party that never actually happened. On Monday night, the company’s founder, Roy Lee, posted a lighthearted video inviting followers to an after-party following Y Combinator’s AI Startup School, an event featuring high-profile speakers such as Sam Altman, Satya Nadella, and Elon Musk. Although the invitation was intended for a select group of friends, it quickly went viral on social media.
Despite Cluely not being affiliated with Y Combinator, the excitement around the event spiralled. As crowds formed and word spread online, thousands reportedly showed up at the venue, causing traffic disruptions. The police were called in and ultimately shut the event down before it could begin. Lee, watching the chaos unfold, joked that Cluely’s “aura is just too strong,” reflecting both amusement and disappointment at the night’s outcome.
The fiasco turned into a stream of internet jokes and memes, with some calling it “the most legendary party that never happened.” For Lee, the unintentional buzz only added to Cluely’s reputation for chaotic, attention-grabbing marketing. Known previously for building an AI tool that helped users cheat job interviews, earning him a suspension from Columbia University, Lee has consistently found ways to spark conversation.
Since then, Cluely has raised $5.3 million in seed funding and repositioned its message to be slightly more subtle. Its current product allows users to access hidden support tools during interviews or assessments without detection. The company’s new tagline, “Everything you need. Before you ask,” marks a toned-down approach, though its founder’s antics still command attention.
While the drinks remained untouched and the venue never opened, Lee remains optimistic. He promises there will be a next time, hopefully one where the party happens, and the story lives up to its meme-worthy beginnings.
