IShowSpeed Trying Not To Laugh meme is one of the most recognizable reaction memes on the internet. Featuring popular streamer Darren Watkins Jr. (known as IShowSpeed), the meme captures a moment where he struggles to hold back laughter during an emotional interaction.
Table of Contents
IShowSpeed Trying Not To Laugh Meme Origin
The meme shows IShowSpeed pursing his lips, closing his eyes, and smiling awkwardly while trying not to laugh. It is typically used as a reaction when someone is in a situation where laughing would be inappropriate.
It is classified as a:
- Reaction meme
- Viral video format
- GIF and image template
The meme originates from a YouTube livestream in December 2021, where IShowSpeed was playing Fortnite.
During the stream:
- A young fan emotionally said:
- “My mom is kinda homeless… I want to help her out.”
- Speed tried to stay serious but nearly laughed, creating the now-iconic facial expression.
This moment became the foundation of the meme.
Popular Quotes from the Meme
Some phrases from the original clip also became viral:
- “My mom is kinda homeless”
- “Please Speed, I need this”
- “Why are you trying not to laugh, bruh?”
These lines are often reused in memes and parody formats.
Also Read: Marcus the Worm Meme
Meme Evolution & Edits
The meme later evolved into editable formats, where creators modify Speed’s face into different styles.
Examples:
- Historical or “old-timey” edits
- Anime or cartoon versions
- Face swaps into other characters
These edits became popular in 2024 as “exploitable memes.”
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Meme Name | IShowSpeed Trying Not To Laugh |
| Creator | Darren Watkins Jr. (IShowSpeed) |
| Origin Date | December 29, 2021 |
| Platform of Origin | YouTube Livestream |
| Viral Period | 2022–2025 |
| Key Scene | Trying not to laugh during an emotional fan interaction |
| Popular Quotes | “My mom is kinda homeless”, “Please Speed I need this” |
| Meme Usage | Awkward or inappropriate laughing situations |
| Notable Event | 2025 reunion stream recreating the meme |
In October 2025, IShowSpeed:
- Reunited with the original kids from the clip
- Recreated the viral moment on stream
This event:
- Brought the meme back into trending status
- Confirmed the real story behind the original clip
The meme originated on December 29, 2021, during an IShowSpeed YouTube livestream.
Yes, the meme remains relevant in 2025, especially after IShowSpeed reunited with the original kids and recreated the viral moment, bringing renewed attention.
People relate to it because it captures a universal human experience trying not to laugh when you shouldn’t, especially in serious or emotional situations.
