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What's The 'Guy Pointing At Himself' Meme? The Stock Photo Turned Into A TikTok Meme Explained

TikTok comment sections have been jam-packed with memes lately, and a stock photo of a guy pointing at himself has become one of the most common.
It's a simple meme. It shows a white kid in a white T-shirt pointing at his chest, giving the camera a shocked expression, as if he's saying, "Who, me?" Online, it's mostly used to express that question, as it's become the subject of an image macro and caption meme series.
But where did the meme come from? Who photographed the "Guy Pointing at Himself" meme, and how did it go viral on TikTok? Let's explain.

Where Did The 'Guy Pointing At Himself' Meme Come From?
The photo was taken in 2012 by a stock photographer nicknamed Sabphoto. It was posted to databases like Shutterstock and Dreamstime. The original title was "Teenager Pointing At Himself."
The model's name is still unknown, but it will be interesting if he comes out of the woodwork soon.

A 2022 Tumblr post seems to be the genesis of this meme's use. It was a reply to a photoshop of a pointing mouse. The post beautifully communicated an interaction with no words, and it resonated with many users.

How Is The 'Guy Pointing At Himself' Meme Used Online?
This kid pointing at himself is everywhere on TikTok right now. It's because it conveys a universal emotion: being blamed for something you didn't do.
One popular example explains this well. The caption jokes about the teacher calling on someone who hasn't been paying attention.

"Guy Pointing at Himself" is also one of many recurring memes that are spammed in TikTok comment sections now that the app allows images there.
Joining its ranks are Caveman Gumball and the rapper Lazer Dim 700 posing with "SYBAU 💔."
@emmettgz Photos to comment #fyp #viral #happy #haveagoodday ♬ fake plastic trees – ashlyn
What Are Some More 'Guy Pointing At Himself' Memes?
If you're thinking of making a meme with the "Guy Pointing at Himself," do it! Just add a caption and post it anywhere. Here are some examples.



For the full history of Guy Pointing at Himself, be sure to check out Know Your Meme's entry for even more information.