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ICYMI, Blue Steel has been taking over TikTok. And while you may not know exactly what that means, I’m sure you’ve stumbled across a certain TikTok trend that explains it. Well, kind of.

I don’t know if it’s just me, but I haven’t been able to escape the viral TikTok Zoolander meme. It seems like every other post includes the iconic clip from the popular film franchise — you know, that one where Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson meet eyes as they walk past each other? If you’ve seen the meme, then you’d know what I was talking about.

Chances are, though, you’ve seen the meme — #zoolandermeme has over 140 million views on TikTok. The hashtag is full of users putting their own spin on the trend, and they’re everywhere from World Cup memes to jokes about sibling rivalry. All in all, this trend encompasses that awkward moment when you think that you’ve mastered something, but then you see your enemy — or rival — doing it better. Think: your middle school mean girl showing up in sequined UGGs after you wore your basic, tan UGGs to school. Ouch, right?

If you haven’t come across the Zoolander meme just yet, let this be your formal introduction. Beware: once you watch it, you won’t be able to get rid of it on your FYP. Sorry, not sorry.

Where Did the TikTok Zoolander meme come from?

I was obsessed with Zoolander when I was younger, so this meme has definitely awakened my inner child. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the clip, let me give you some much-needed context.

This clip comes from the popular 2001 film Zoolander, starring Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, and Will Ferrell. Ben Stiller plays a fashion model named Derek Zoolander, who thinks that he’s destined to win his fourth consecutive Male Model of the Year award, beating out his competition, Hansel McDonald — played by Owen Wilson. Zoolander’s secret weapon? His signature pose, “Blue Steel,” which only he can master. That is until McDonald pushes past him, flashing Zoolander a perfected Blue Steel. It’s equal parts awkward and hilarious. Perfect meme material, TBH.

What is the Zoolander TikTok meme song?

No iconic meme is complete without the perfect soundtrack, and the Zoolander meme is no exception. The clip is most commonly overlayed with a remix of “Who is She” by I, Monster. This remix went viral after popular music creator, ianasher, combined the I, Monster song with “The Perfect Girl” by Mareux. Now, the remix is getting a resurgence in popularity due to this meme. Honestly? I’m not mad at it! Bring on the Blue Steel memes!

@therealdrmiami

Why do they kinda look like us tho???

♬ Yotube AstroCapella – AstroCapella
@user1869123302162

I didn’t even attend a single lecture but you already know I’m going to get the highest grade on the exam #fyp #viral #fypシ゚viral #trending #relatable #zoolander #zoolandermeme #finalsweek #finalexams

♬ Yotube AstroCapella – AstroCapella
julianna (she/her) is an associate editor at her campus where she oversees the wellness vertical and all things sex and relationships, wellness, mental health, astrology, and gen-z. during her undergraduate career at chapman university, julianna's work appeared in as if magazine and taylor magazine. additionally, her work as a screenwriter has been recognized and awarded at film festivals worldwide. when she's not writing burning hot takes and spilling way too much about her personal life online, you can find julianna anywhere books, beers, and bands are.