AboutWhat does the meme depict?

The "I Haven’t Heard That Name In Years" meme consists of images that typically show a disheveled or old character, often smoking a cigarette, giving the impression of someone reminiscing about the past. The imagery in the meme evokes a sense of nostalgia or a forgotten era, frequently incorporating subjects that appear worn or weary, which enhances the humor or dramatic effect of recalling something long unspoken of.

OriginWho did it first?

The visual concept of a worn-out individual smoking a cigarette as a symbol of the past originated from noir films, emphasizing themes of mystery and retrospection. This trope was notably referenced in popular culture through the 'Star Wars' franchise. In one scene, Obi-wan Kenobi, portrayed by Sir Alec Guinness, responds evocatively when Luke Skywalker inquires about his past, emphasizing the dramatic weight of a forgotten identity. This particular moment is captured in a scene from 'Star Wars'. Additionally, one of the initial instances using this phrase in a humorous context emerged from a post on Twitter (now X) by @DoctorJeph, who creatively spun the phrase with a reference to Thomas the Tank Engine, garnishing significant attention online. The meme also gained traction from unusual and comical images of crabs smoking cigarettes, representing one of the first viral adaptations of animals depicted with cigarettes.^[1]

Origin: 2016