Where did the meme with the cat and the woman come from? - briefly
The meme featuring a cat and a woman originated from a screenshot of an animated video created by an unknown artist. The image gained popularity due to its relatable and humorous portrayal of a cat's indifference towards a woman's actions.
Where did the meme with the cat and the woman come from? - in detail
The meme featuring a cat and a woman, often referred to as the "Distracted Boyfriend" meme, has become one of the most recognizable and widely used internet jokes. Its origins trace back to a stock photograph taken by photographer Justin Milner. The image, originally titled "Young man walking with his girlfriend and staring at another seductive girl," was published on the stock photo website iStock by Getty Images.
The photograph depicts a young man walking with his girlfriend while turning his head to look at another woman. A cat is superimposed onto the image, replacing the original woman the man is looking at. This alteration transforms the original narrative into a humorous scenario where the man is distracted by a cat, rather than another woman. The meme's humor lies in the unexpected and absurd substitution, which resonates with internet users due to its relatability and absurdity.
The meme gained significant traction in late 2017 when it began circulating on various social media platforms, including Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook. Users started creating their own versions of the meme, replacing the cat and the woman with a wide range of characters, objects, and concepts. This creative reimagination contributed to the meme's viral spread and enduring popularity.
Several factors contributed to the meme's success. Firstly, the original photograph's composition and the clear narrative it presents made it an ideal candidate for memeification. The addition of the cat introduced an element of surprise and humor, making the meme easily shareable and adaptable. Additionally, the meme's versatility allowed it to be used in various situations, from lighthearted jokes to social commentary, further expanding its reach and appeal.
The "Distracted Boyfriend" meme's journey from a stock photograph to an internet phenomenon highlights the power of visual storytelling and the creative potential of online communities. Its ability to evolve and adapt to different situations has cemented its status as a classic meme, continuing to inspire new iterations and interpretations. The meme's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the collective creativity of internet users.