The “How Do We Tell Him” meme has become a viral sensation, resonating with social media users worldwide. Originating from the beloved animated series SpongeBob SquarePants, this meme has been widely used to humorously depict situations where someone remains blissfully unaware of an inevitable truth.
But what makes this meme so popular? In this article, we’ll explore the origin of the “How Do We Break the News to Him” meme, how it spread across the internet, and why it remains a staple in meme culture today.
What Is the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme?
The “How Do We Tell Him” meme is a popular internet joke featuring a screenshot from SpongeBob SquarePants. It typically shows Squidward Tentacles and other characters looking concerned, paired with the caption “How do we tell him?”
This meme is often used to highlight situations where someone is unaware of a harsh or ironic truth. The humor lies in the tension between their innocence and the impending realization of reality.
Origin of the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme
Where Does the Meme Come From?
The “How Do We Break the News to Him” meme comes from the SpongeBob SquarePants episode “Dying for Pie,” which originally aired on January 27, 2001.
In this episode:
- Squidward mistakenly gives SpongeBob a bomb-filled pie as a gift.
- Thinking SpongeBob has eaten it, Squidward panics, expecting an explosion.
- The moment of concern and uncertainty gives birth to the now-iconic phrase: “How do we tell him?”
When Did the Meme Go Viral?
While the phrase had existed for years, the meme format started gaining traction in 2020, especially on platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and Instagram. It became widely used to poke fun at naïve individuals facing unexpected realities.
📺 Watch the original scene from SpongeBob SquarePants: SpongeBob Meme Compilation
How the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme Spread Online
1. Early Popularity on Social Media
The meme first gained traction in 2021, particularly among Indonesian Facebook users. They used it to humorously warn people about misconceptions, such as:
- Students thinking life gets easier after graduation → “How do we tell him?”
- New gamers expecting an easy playthrough → “How do we tell him?”
2. Meme Variations & Adaptations
As the meme evolved, different versions emerged:
- Text-only formats: Users began posting variations without the image.
- GIF memes: Animated versions of Squidward saying “How do we tell him?” appeared.
- Crossover memes: The phrase was applied to movies, video games, and real-life situations.
🔹 Read more about meme evolution on KnowYourMeme
Why Is the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme So Popular?
1. Universality & Relatability
The meme resonates because everyone has been in a situation where they had to break bad news or reveal a truth to someone unaware.
2. Humor & Irony
By mixing comedic timing with real-life situations, the meme makes even uncomfortable truths entertaining.
3. Simplicity & Customization
- Easy to adapt to different scenarios.
- Works across different cultures and languages.
🔹 Learn more about the psychology behind viral memes
Examples of the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme in Pop Culture
The meme has been widely used in gaming, sports, and internet debates. Some popular examples include:
- Gaming Communities: When a new player underestimates a difficult game level → “How do we tell him?”
- Education & College Life: Students expecting college to be easier than high school → “How do we tell him?”
- Workplace Humor: A new employee thinking their job will be stress-free → “How do we tell him?”
🔹 Explore trending memes on Reddit
Memes as a Reflection of Communication Trends
The success of memes like “How Do We Tell Him?” highlights the changing landscape of digital communication.
1. Visual Storytelling
Memes combine text and images for quick, effective communication.
2. Cultural Commentary
Many memes reflect societal issues, generational humor, and everyday struggles.
3. Online Community Engagement
Memes bring people together through shared experiences and humor.
🔹 Read more on meme culture and digital communication
Final Thoughts on the “How Do We Tell Him” Meme
The “How Do We Break It to Him” meme continues to be a powerful tool for humor and social commentary. Its widespread appeal lies in its ability to capture relatable situations with a simple, recognizable phrase.
Key Takeaways:
✔ The meme originates from a 2001 SpongeBob SquarePants episode.
✔ It became popular in 2020-2021, first gaining traction in Indonesia.
✔ Its versatility and relatability make it a long-lasting internet trend.
Next time you see someone blissfully unaware of reality, just remember Squidward’s wise words:
“How do we tell him?”