Internet Legend Lost: The Bittersweet Story of a Meme Icon
The internet has a way of making the mundane go viral, and for some individuals, their 15 minutes of fame can be extended indefinitely through memes. However, for the owners of these memes, fame can be a double-edged sword. One such individual is 曹启峰, a Beijing native who played the role of 王有胜 in the television drama 《亮剑》. Despite his notable performance, his life was not without its challenges, and he faced numerous struggles, including economic difficulties that forced him to take on part-time jobs to make ends meet.
14 March 2025
曹启峰's story gained new attention after his character's expressions and lines from 《亮剑》 were turned into widely shared memes, bringing him unintended fame. The memes, which showcased his unique portrayal of 王有胜, became a staple of internet culture, symbolizing various emotions and reactions. Unfortunately, 曹启峰 passed away in 2018 at the age of 46 due to kidney failure, leaving behind a legacy that continues to bring joy to people's lives.
The news of his passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from netizens, with many sharing their favorite memes featuring the beloved actor. While grieving, his fans reminded everyone to focus on the happiness he brought to the world, and his story serves as a reminder that even internet fame can't stop the passage of time. Many are expressing their gratitude for the laughter and joy his memes brought to their lives, while also acknowledging the sadness of his passing and the what-ifs of his potential future contributions to the world of comedy and memes.
As the internet continues to evolve, 曹启峰's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of humor and the importance of cherishing the moments of joy that individuals bring to our lives, no matter how brief their time in the spotlight may be. His memes may have started as a simple internet phenomenon, but they have become a symbol of the connection and community that can be found online. Netizens are sharing stories of how his expression pack was there for them during difficult times, providing a much-needed laugh or smile. The outpouring of emotions highlights the significant impact 曹启峰 had on his fans, even if it was through something as ephemeral as an internet meme.
In a similar vein, the story of "波子" (Cheems), a Hong Kong Shiba Inu, also gained widespread attention after a photo of him captured his adorable expression, which became known as the "小废柴" (small trash can) meme. The image was widely shared and became a staple of internet culture, symbolizing weakness and helplessness. His owner reported that Cheems had passed away during surgery, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and joy. The news of Cheems' passing also sparked an outpouring of tributes from netizens, with many sharing their favorite memes featuring the beloved dog.
The rise and fall of these meme stars serve as a reminder that internet fame is fleeting and can have unintended consequences. While Cheems and 曹启峰 may be gone, their legacy lives on through the countless memes and memories they created, bringing joy to people around the world. As we reflect on the impact of these memes, we must also consider the human (and animal) side of internet fame and the importance of respecting the boundaries and privacy of those who inadvertently become a part of our shared culture. Their stories are a complex tapestry of highs and lows, of laughter and tears, reminding us that even in the digital age, where personas can be reduced to mere images or memes, there is always a deeper, richer story waiting to be uncovered.
