It was a tale of two internets this week, as both “normie” and “deep internetters” had wild memes to celebrate, but there was very little overlap.
In the former camp, yet another athlete got a horrible statue (joining the ranks of Ronaldo and Salah), while the very online lost it over a new anime mascot from quite an unusual source. Let’s get into the memes of the week.
Dwyane Wade Statue
Ask your non-meme enthusiast friends about what happened online this week, and chances are they’d bring up Dwyane Wade’s statue. The Miami Heat honored one of their legendary basketball players with a new bronze statue this week, and for what seems like the five hundredth time in 10 years, the sculptors completely botched the subject’s face.
There is, however, some logic behind this statue: It’s supposed to capture one of Wade’s most iconic celebrations, which is why his face is frozen mouth agape. Also, Wade was actively involved in the process of crafting the statue, so he’s apparently on board with the final result.
All of that meant nothing to the internet, which had a field day with what is widely perceived as an awful botch of a bust.
Examples
Luce The Vatican Mascot
Meanwhile, on the complete opposite side of the internet, the Vatican unveiled a new anime girl mascot named Luce.
To repeat, the Vatican unveiled an anime girl mascot named Luce.
“Luce” is The Vatican’s attempt to connect with the youth, and the idea of a bunch of cardinals having to comprehend a proverbial Catholic-chan was too much for the internet to bear, particularly on 4chan and Twitter / X. Naturally, it was a fan art bonanza.
Examples
A.J., Big Justice and the Rizzler on Jimmy Fallon
In the sort of spectacle that makes you ponder the soul of America, A.J., Big Justice and the Rizzler appeared on Jimmy Fallon. The Costco Guys and the child they bring around with them had a surreal appearance on late-night TV, leading to a surge of hot takes about the trio.
It also led to a surge in jokes, particularly around a picture of the Rizzler making his signature “thinky face” (which is a mewing version of the “Chad Face” resembling the “Lightskin Stare”) as people joked he was revealing his esoteric taste.
Examples
Dumb Ahh Pumpkins
Finally, in what is the most wholesome meme of the week and only major Halloween themed meme, TikTokers got their yuks by carving exceptionally silly faces onto pumpkins.
The so-called “Dumb Ahh Pumpkin” showcases just how nerdy creative souls can make their jack-o’-lanterns look, resulting in some frankly adorable faces. The trend likely led to some laughs for trick-or-treaters, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Examples
@gianabarscz bro is drooling #dumbahhpumpkin ♬ why did so many people use this – ok
@d4ngerranger A little differant post today 😭#pumpkin #halloween #fyp ♬ Papas Pizzeria Theme – Coolmath Games
@uh.moss
♬ Papas Pizzeria Theme – Coolmath Games
@rat_scooter_ Punkin😔 #pumkin #halloween #fall #pumpkinseason #goofy #dumb #silly ♬ Papas Pizzeria Theme – Coolmath Games
We’ll be back next Friday with another edition of our Weekly Meme Roundup series, so stay tuned!
