The GigaChad meme has sparked a worldwide investigation. But if you’re out of the loop on these internet archetypes, you may be wondering what is a GigaChad or even an incel for that matter? Well, the backstory on the GigaChad meme is deep.
“The face of GigaChad is truly a sight to behold, and one you simply can’t escape from in most corners of the internet,” says Don Caldwell, a host on the Know Your Meme YouTube channel. Obviously, this vivid GigaChad description begs the question, is GigaChad a real person out in the world or is GigaChad photoshopped completely? And what is GigaChad’s real name if he is an actual dude?
To understand this phenomenon, let's delve into the history and the true identity behind this internet sensation.
The Genesis of GigaChad
Krista Sudmalis, who invented this Chad Thundercock muscular guy meme, reportedly launched the SLEEK’N’TEARS art project in July of 2011. Initially, it consisted primarily of digitally modified photographs of herself and other individuals. According to Know Your Meme, in a 2016 interview, Krista Sudmalis referred to her five key GigaChad models during that period as her “muses.” However, her fifth GigaChad muse, who began being showcased more prominently than others in 2015 and 2016, is the GigaChad face we know today.
The Debate: Real or Photoshopped?
Shortly after the ultra GigaChad achieved virality, the grand debate as to whether or not GigaChad was a legitimate individual took over a myriad of 4chan forums in 2017, including the popular page /pol/.
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The Meaning and Purpose of GigaChad
Now that we’ve explored the GigaChad memes origins, what is the purpose of GigaChad’s existence? What motivated the black-and-white chad meme inception? Well, according to Know Your Meme, GigaChad is “an internet archetype” that symbolises the “ultimate Chad Thundercock.” For those of you who are as confused as us, Chad Thundercock is a moniker for good-looking and popular males who are sexually high achievers. But when it comes to GigaChad’s meaning and his true identity, there’s more to the story.
Krista’s digital depiction of GigaChad is said to be inspired by Ernest Khalimov, a Russian model. And lo and behold, here is Ernest Khalimov without photoshop in all his glory. His names Ernest Khalimov.
GigaChad's Anthem and Cultural Impact
Gigachad Anthem
Flash-forward to 2021, and the GigaChad meme has become so iconic, the dude gets his own anthem and average enjoyer meme revolution. Simply titled G I G A C H A D - Song on YouTube, it comprises lyrics that perfectly encapsulate what the GigaChad meme guy is all about: “Sharp jaw, tight abs, no flaws, GigaChad. He’s the average enjoyer, not the average fan." Released in October of 2021 by a musician named Day by Dave, this catchy tune about the average enjoyer guy has now amassed over 2.5 million views on YouTube, and 341,915 streams on Spotify.
GigaChad Today
Now, the digitally-generated heartthrob that is GigaChad continues to thrive. Krista Sudmalis has turned this viral online Chad meme into an entire franchise. Even GigaChad Elden Ring version is out there. And for the ladies, there’s even a female GigaChad archetype circulating the web now.
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