Trollface

Trollface first appeared on September 19, 2008, in a webcomic posted by Oakland-based artist Carlos Ramirez (nickname "Whynne") on DeviantArt. The comic was a satire on meaningless trolling activities on 4chan's video game board, and the smirking expression of the character quickly became the iconic representation of internet trolling.

After its debut, Trollface rapidly spread on platforms like 4chan and gained popularity on Reddit, Tumblr, Cheezburger, Quickmeme, and more. It became a significant part of internet culture, especially as a symbol of trolling in Rage Comics. In 2009, its prominence further increased when the term "trollface" was defined on Urban Dictionary.

Trollface is often paired with phrases like "Problem?" or "U mad?" to mock or tease others through trolling. The meme has appeared in various media such as TV shows, video games, music videos, and even football fan banners. It has also been the subject of copyright disputes, with Ramirez earning substantial licensing revenue and settlements, amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Since 2020, Trollface has seen a resurgence, evolving into new formats like "Cover Yourself in Oil" and "Trollge," a creepypasta-inspired variation. Despite the passage of time, Trollface continues to adapt and remains an essential symbol in internet meme culture.