The internet has given birth to numerous memes and viral sensations over the years, but few have managed to stand the test of time like the “I Like Turtles” kid. This endearing and quirky character has been a staple of online culture for over a decade, bringing joy and laughter to millions of people around the world. But have you ever wondered, how old is the “I Like Turtles” kid today?
Overview
The “I Like Turtles” kid, whose real name is Jonathan Ware, rose to fame in 2007 after a video of him being interviewed by a local news station in Tennessee went viral. In the video, Jonathan enthusiastically exclaims “I like turtles!” when asked about his favorite animal, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since then, the meme has been remixed, parodied, and referenced countless times in popular culture, cementing its place in the annals of internet history.
A Lasting Impact on Internet Culture
As we delve into the life of Jonathan Ware, we’ll explore how the “I Like Turtles” meme has continued to evolve and endure, even as the internet and its trends have changed dramatically over the years. We’ll also examine the impact that this meme has had on Jonathan’s life, and how he’s navigated the challenges and opportunities that come with being an unlikely internet sensation.
So, if you’re ready to take a trip down memory lane and revisit one of the most beloved memes of all time, then let’s dive in and find out how old the “I Like Turtles” kid is today!
The Mysterious Case of the “I Like Turtles” Kid
The internet is full of mysteries, and one of the most enduring ones is the enigmatic “I Like Turtles” kid. For those who may not be familiar, the “I Like Turtles” kid is a young boy who became an internet sensation after a video of him enthusiastically declaring his love for turtles went viral. But despite his internet fame, very little is known about the kid himself, including his age.
The Origins of the Meme
The “I Like Turtles” kid first appeared on the internet in 2007, when a video of him being interviewed by a local news station in Michigan was uploaded to YouTube. In the video, the kid, who appears to be around 6 or 7 years old, is asked about his favorite food, and he responds with an enthusiastic “I like turtles!” The video quickly went viral, and the kid became an internet sensation.
The Mystery of the Kid’s Identity
Despite his internet fame, the “I Like Turtles” kid’s real identity remains a mystery. The video was uploaded by a user named “phillyguy83,” who claimed to be the kid’s uncle. However, the uncle’s identity was never revealed, and the kid’s real name was never disclosed.
Over the years, there have been several attempts to uncover the kid’s identity, but none have been successful. In 2011, a blogger claimed to have identified the kid as a boy named Jonathan, but this was never confirmed. In 2017, a Reddit user claimed to have found the kid’s Facebook profile, but this was also debunked as a hoax. (See Also: How Do Green Sea Turtles Eat)
Estimating the Kid’s Age
Since the kid’s real identity is unknown, it’s difficult to determine his exact age. However, based on the video, it’s possible to make an educated estimate. Assuming the video was recorded in 2007, and the kid was around 6 or 7 years old at the time, we can estimate his age as follows:
| Year | Estimated Age |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 6-7 years old |
| 2017 | 16-17 years old |
| 2022 | 21-22 years old |
As you can see, based on this estimate, the “I Like Turtles” kid would be around 21-22 years old today.
The Impact of Internet Fame
The “I Like Turtles” kid’s internet fame has had a significant impact on his life, although the exact nature of this impact is unknown. In 2011, the kid’s supposed uncle claimed that the kid was “doing well” and was “enjoying the attention.” However, it’s unclear whether the kid’s internet fame has had a positive or negative impact on his life.
There are several potential downsides to internet fame, particularly for children. For one, it can be difficult for kids to cope with the sudden attention and scrutiny that comes with going viral. Additionally, internet fame can make it difficult for kids to maintain a sense of privacy and normalcy in their lives.
On the other hand, internet fame can also have positive effects. For example, it can provide kids with opportunities they may not have otherwise had, such as appearing on TV or meeting celebrities.
The Legacy of the “I Like Turtles” Kid
Despite the mystery surrounding his identity, the “I Like Turtles” kid has left a lasting impact on the internet. He has inspired countless memes and jokes, and has become a cultural icon of sorts.
The “I Like Turtles” kid’s legacy extends beyond the internet as well. He has been referenced in popular culture, including in TV shows and movies. For example, in the TV show “The Goldbergs,” the character of Adam Goldberg is seen wearing an “I Like Turtles” t-shirt in one episode. (See Also: Why Are Turtles Green)
The “I Like Turtles” kid’s legacy is also a testament to the power of the internet to create and disseminate memes and cultural phenomena. In the early 2000s, the internet was still a relatively new and uncharted territory, and the “I Like Turtles” kid’s rise to fame was one of the first examples of how a viral video could launch someone to internet stardom.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “I Like Turtles” kid remains one of the internet’s most enduring mysteries. Despite his internet fame, very little is known about the kid himself, including his age. However, based on estimates, it’s possible that the kid is around 21-22 years old today.
The “I Like Turtles” kid’s legacy is a testament to the power of the internet to create and disseminate memes and cultural phenomena. He has inspired countless jokes and memes, and has become a cultural icon of sorts.
Ultimately, the “I Like Turtles” kid’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of privacy and normalcy in the age of the internet. While internet fame can be a powerful tool, it’s also important to consider the potential downsides and to prioritize the well-being of individuals, particularly children.
Recap:
- The “I Like Turtles” kid became an internet sensation in 2007 after a video of him declaring his love for turtles went viral.
- The kid’s real identity remains a mystery, and his age is estimated to be around 21-22 years old today.
- The “I Like Turtles” kid’s internet fame has had a significant impact on his life, although the exact nature of this impact is unknown.
- The “I Like Turtles” kid’s legacy is a testament to the power of the internet to create and disseminate memes and cultural phenomena.
- The “I Like Turtles” kid’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of privacy and normalcy in the age of the internet.
Frequently Asked Questions about the “I Like Turtles” Kid
Who is the “I Like Turtles” kid?
The “I Like Turtles” kid is a young boy named Jonathan Ware, who became an internet sensation after appearing on a local news channel in 2007. He was being interviewed about a turtle-themed event, and his enthusiastic response of “I like turtles!” went viral. (See Also: Can Sea Turtles Hide In Their Shell)
How old was Jonathan Ware when he said “I like turtles”?
Jonathan Ware was 9 years old when he said “I like turtles” during the interview in 2007.
What happened to Jonathan Ware after he became famous?
After becoming an internet sensation, Jonathan Ware continued to live a normal life. He grew up, went to school, and pursued his interests. He has made occasional appearances at events and has been involved in some charity work. However, he has maintained a relatively low public profile and has not sought to capitalize on his viral fame.
Is Jonathan Ware still interested in turtles?
While Jonathan Ware may not be as vocal about his love for turtles as he was when he was 9, he has mentioned in interviews that he still enjoys learning about turtles and appreciates the attention his viral video brought to these amazing creatures.
Can I find the original “I like turtles” video online?
Yes, the original “I like turtles” video is still available on various online platforms, including YouTube and other video sharing sites. You can easily search for it and relive the moment that made Jonathan Ware an internet sensation!
