The individual widely recognized as the face behind the confused meme has shared his thoughts on achieving viral fame.
The internet, with its long-standing presence, is rich with stories and history.
Some aspects have complex backstories with controversies, while others, like memes and gifs, circulate with little background contemplation.
Now, the person featured in one of the most iconic GIFs has spoken about his experience.
This particular GIF originated in 2013 during a live stream, featuring Drew Scanlon, a San Francisco resident and video producer for Twitch, blinking in mild bewilderment.
As detailed on Know Your Meme, Scanlon was engaged in a weekly live stream on December 6, 2013, when a colleague cracked a joke, prompting his now-famous reaction.
His response rapidly gained traction online and remains a popular meme today.
Remarkably, Scanlon has channeled his internet fame into raising over $300,000 for charitable causes.
Reflecting on his viral journey in an interview with ABC, he remarked: “A lot of times it doesn’t feel like me.”
He also mentioned that some people misidentified the person in the GIF as actor Cary Elwes, including his wife until she met him.
Instead of just basking in his internet stardom, he has leveraged it for philanthropy.
Recently, Scanlon posted the GIF on his Twitter account, encouraging donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Annually, he uses his scarcely active social media accounts to generate more support for the cause.
He shared: “Hi Internet! I’m Drew and THIS IS MY FACE. If this GIF has ever brought you joy in the past, I humbly ask you to consider making a donation to the National MS Society.
“It would mean a lot to me and to those I know affected by the disease! Donate at https://BlinkingGuy.com.”
Beyond his regular charitable endeavors, he organizes an annual bike race to support the same charity, motivated by the fact that both his friend and her mother have MS.
Commenting on the support he has received, he said: “I have just been floored with the reaction. It was a gift that was given to me and I thought that I should just pay it forward.”