20 Meme Stars: Where Are They Now?

Hey guys! Ever wondered what happens to the faces behind those viral memes we share and laugh at every day? It's a wild world out there, and for some, meme fame has opened doors to real-life opportunities. Let's dive into the stories of 20 individuals who experienced just that – turning their internet fame into something tangible and awesome!

1. Success Kid (Sammy Griner)

Our journey begins with the iconic Success Kid, Sammy Griner. This little dude's clenched fist and determined expression became the emblem of small victories everywhere. But what happened after the meme? Well, this meme, featuring a picture taken by his mother, Laney Griner, quickly went viral in 2007. The original photo was simply meant to capture a moment of young Sammy enjoying the beach, completely unaware that this innocent snapshot would soon become a global symbol of triumph and determination. It’s amazing how a simple, candid shot can resonate with millions, isn't it? And it’s not just about the internet fame, guys; the Griner family actually used Sammy's meme recognition to help raise funds for his father's kidney transplant. How cool is that? The power of memes can be truly life-changing! It showed how the internet, often seen as a source of fleeting trends, could actually be harnessed for a profoundly personal and meaningful cause. This fusion of internet fame and genuine need transformed the meme from a mere online joke into a powerful tool for social good. This highlights the potential of online communities to come together and support individuals facing real-world challenges. Beyond the fundraising efforts, Sammy's story underscores the unpredictable nature of internet fame and the ways in which it can intersect with real life. It's a reminder that behind every meme is a person with a story, and sometimes, that story can inspire and uplift. The ongoing legacy of Success Kid demonstrates the lasting impact of a simple image that captured the spirit of accomplishment and perseverance, proving that even the smallest victories deserve celebration. It’s a heartwarming example of how a viral sensation can translate into tangible support and hope, making Sammy Griner's journey a truly unique and inspiring one. Now, isn't that something to fist-pump about?

2. Overly Attached Girlfriend (Laina Morris)

Next up, we have the Overly Attached Girlfriend, Laina Morris! Remember that intense stare and those lyrics? But what's she up to now? Laina’s journey from a viral sensation to a content creator is super interesting. The Overly Attached Girlfriend meme emerged from a YouTube video Laina made as a parody of Justin Bieber’s song “Boyfriend.” Her intense, yet humorous, portrayal of a possessive girlfriend struck a chord with internet users, and the meme was born overnight. Can you imagine creating something that becomes a global phenomenon just like that? The original video's success catapulted Laina into the spotlight, but what’s truly impressive is how she leveraged that initial fame. Instead of letting the meme define her, Laina transformed it into a springboard for a successful online career. She started creating more videos, showcasing her personality and humor, and built a loyal following. Her ability to adapt and evolve beyond the meme is a testament to her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Laina’s story is a perfect example of how to handle viral fame gracefully and turn it into a sustainable career. She didn’t just fade away after the meme’s popularity waned; she actively shaped her own narrative and continued to engage with her audience. This kind of proactive approach is what sets her apart and makes her journey so inspiring. She diversified her content, exploring different formats and topics, which kept her audience engaged and attracted new viewers. Guys, Laina’s transition from meme star to a successful YouTuber shows us the importance of being authentic and versatile in the digital world. It's not just about the initial viral moment, but what you do with it that truly matters. Her journey proves that internet fame can be a powerful launching pad, but it's the dedication and hard work that sustains long-term success.

3. Bad Luck Brian (Kyle Craven)

Oh, Bad Luck Brian, the king of unfortunate photos! But did his meme status bring him any actual luck? Let’s find out! Kyle Craven, the face behind Bad Luck Brian, experienced a meteoric rise to internet fame due to a hilariously awkward school picture. Can you believe one photo could change your life so drastically? The meme, which depicted Kyle with a goofy grin and an unfortunate expression, quickly became synonymous with everyday mishaps and unlucky situations. But here’s the twist: unlike the meme's narrative, Kyle's real life took a turn for the better because of his viral status. It's almost ironic, right? Bad luck turned into good fortune! Kyle cleverly leveraged his meme fame to his advantage. He didn't just sit back and let the internet have its fun; he actively sought out opportunities that his newfound recognition afforded him. This proactive approach is what makes his story so compelling. One of the most significant ways Kyle benefited from his meme status was through various endorsement deals and advertising campaigns. Companies recognized the widespread appeal of Bad Luck Brian and saw the potential in using his image to connect with a broad audience. This transformed Kyle from an ordinary guy into a sought-after personality in the digital marketing world. Isn't it fascinating how a meme could open doors to such diverse opportunities? Kyle's story highlights the power of internet fame to transcend its initial context. What started as a lighthearted joke turned into a career booster, proving that even seemingly negative attention can be spun into positive outcomes. His ability to capitalize on his viral moment demonstrates the importance of adaptability and entrepreneurial thinking in the age of the internet. Guys, Kyle’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of online fame and the potential to turn lemons into lemonade. It shows us that sometimes, the best things in life come from the most unexpected places.

4. Grumpy Cat (Tardar Sauce)

Ah, Grumpy Cat, the feline face that launched a thousand memes! But what happened to this perpetually displeased kitty? Grumpy Cat, whose real name was Tardar Sauce, became an internet sensation because of her unique facial appearance, which made her look perpetually grumpy. Can you imagine a cat becoming a global icon? Her permanently furrowed brow and downturned mouth perfectly captured the mood of internet users everywhere, making her one of the most recognizable memes of all time. But Grumpy Cat's story goes far beyond just viral fame. Her rise to stardom resulted in a multifaceted career that spanned merchandise, media appearances, and even a lifetime movie! It’s incredible how a single meme could lead to so many opportunities, right? The business empire that grew around Grumpy Cat was a testament to the power of internet fame. From T-shirts and mugs to books and TV shows, Grumpy Cat's likeness was everywhere. Her image became a brand, and her owners expertly managed her fame to maximize its potential. This demonstrates the immense commercial value that memes can hold, especially when they resonate with a wide audience. Grumpy Cat's success wasn't just about her grumpy face; it was also about the clever marketing and branding that surrounded her. Her owners understood how to leverage her unique appeal and create a lasting legacy. Guys, the story of Grumpy Cat is a fascinating case study in how to turn internet fame into a sustainable business. It shows us that with the right approach, a meme can be more than just a fleeting trend; it can become a cultural phenomenon with significant economic impact. Though Grumpy Cat sadly passed away in 2019, her legacy lives on, reminding us of the enduring power of a meme that captured the world's imagination.

5. Doge

Wow, so meme, much famous! We're talking about Doge, of course! But what's the story behind this Shiba Inu and its iconic phrases? Doge, featuring a Shiba Inu dog named Kabosu, became one of the most iconic memes of the 2010s, known for its broken English captions and quirky phrases like