Fanlore:Featured Article Archives/2021: Week 31
Rainbow Bondage Bear aka RBB is a rainbow-colored teddy bear dressed in bondage gear that was prominently displayed at many One Direction concerts in 2014 and 2015. The bear originated when a fan threw it on stage at a 1D concert in May 2014; someone (or multiple people) on tour kept the bear, added the bondage gear, and set it next to various pieces of stage equipment at future concerts where it was visible to fans. In 2015, a second, smaller bear was added to the display; fans call this bear Sugar Baby Bear aka SBB, referencing Sugar Daddy relationships. RBB and SBB's costumes became increasingly elaborate, as props and furniture were added.
Some fans then went on to claim that the bears provided proof that 1D members Harry and Louis were in a secret relationship and that Harry and Louis were responsible for the bears. (For more, see Theorized Meaning). Conversely, it has been suggested that the 1D crew was actively trolling Larries with the bears.
RBB was a source of considerable fascination and glee for parts of One Direction fandom. Many fans photographed the bears, and spotting them at concerts became a long-running game. RBB and friends have also inspired fanart and feature in some, mainly Larry, fanfics.