Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

Through the article “Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon“, we will explore the phenomenon of “Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles” – an interesting and influential story in the online community and Internet culture. Let’s take a look back at the memorable moments of Jonathon Ware, who became an accidental internet icon thanks to a simple statement: “I like turtles.” Join our “baolawfirm.com.vn” website on this exciting journey and discover why “Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles” has become such an integral part of the modern Internet era.

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon
Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles

I. Who is the Zombie Kid?


In the annals of internet history, there are certain moments that have left an indelible mark on popular culture. One such moment occurred sixteen years ago when a young boy named Jonathon Ware unwittingly became an online sensation, forever known as the “Zombie Kid.” It all began with a live broadcast on KGW, where a then 10-year-old Jonathon, with his face cheerfully adorned with a zombie makeup, made an appearance that would captivate the world.

Little did he know that his simple response to a reporter’s question would launch him into viral stardom. When asked about his feelings, Jonathon gave an endearing reply that would soon become iconic: “I like turtles.” The innocent and genuine expression struck a chord with viewers, and the video swiftly spread across the internet, amassing hundreds of thousands of views on platforms like YouTube and the then-dominant MySpace.

Fast forward to the present day, and the Zombie Kid is back in the limelight, resurfacing in a promotional advertisement for the upcoming film “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” produced by Paramount Pictures. The ad features a nostalgic homage to the original viral video, complete with the familiar zombie face paint. However, this time, our beloved “Zombie Kid” finds himself engaging with a reporter in a new context, expressing his excitement for the latest Ninja Turtles movie after attending a screening.

The enduring impact of Jonathon’s catchphrase, “I like turtles,” remains undeniable, having evolved into a symbol of internet culture and leaving an everlasting impression on online communities. As we delve deeper into the story of Zombie Kid and his unexpected journey to fame, we uncover a fascinating connection between the past and the present, bridged by his genuine love for turtles and his serendipitous encounter with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise.

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

II. Return in the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” commercial


The return of Jonathon Ware in a promotional advertisement for Paramount’s latest film, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” has sent waves of nostalgia through the online community. The ad artfully recreates the iconic moment that first catapulted him to internet fame as the beloved “Zombie Kid.”

In the advertisement, we see Jonathon, now all grown up, reprising his famous role with the same zombie face paint he wore sixteen years ago. The setting, however, has changed from the familiar Portland Waterfront Village to a graffiti-covered “Riverfront Theater” in the heart of Midtown, New York. This clever touch seamlessly transports the audience to the present day while still honoring the roots of the original viral video.

The scene begins with a reporter, reminiscent of the one from the KGW broadcast, approaching Jonathon, who is wearing a bright yellow outfit, in a playful nod to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ signature colors. The dynamic is similar to the one that made the first video so endearing, as the reporter initiates a conversation with our beloved “Zombie Kid.”

This time, instead of asking Jonathon about face painting, the reporter inquires about his thoughts on the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie after attending a special screening. The magic of the moment lies in the familiarity of Jonathon’s response, which remains unchanged over the years – a sincere and unhesitant declaration that he still “likes turtles.”

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

III. The influence of the saying “I like turtles”


The simple phrase “I like turtles” uttered by Jonathon Ware during his viral appearance on KGW has transcended its origins to become an enduring icon in online communities and internet culture. Its impact on the digital landscape can be attributed to several key factors that have contributed to its widespread recognition and continued relevance.

  • Viral Sensation: The original video of Jonathon’s interview quickly spread like wildfire across various social media platforms and video-sharing websites, garnering millions of views and shares. Its unexpected charm and innocence captured the hearts of netizens worldwide, leading to countless memes, parodies, and remixes featuring the famous phrase.
  • Meme Culture: “I like turtles” became a meme – a cultural element that spreads rapidly through the internet. The catchphrase was integrated into various memes, often overlaid onto images or videos unrelated to turtles, thereby creating humorous and absurd juxtapositions. This memeification solidified its status as an enduring part of online humor.
  • Symbol of Internet Nostalgia: Over time, the phrase became synonymous with the early days of internet culture and the simpler, more carefree times of the online world. It evokes feelings of nostalgia among those who were part of the internet community during its initial rise.
  • Catchphrase in Pop Culture: “I like turtles” transcended the online realm to find its way into mainstream media and popular culture. It has been referenced in TV shows, movies, and even used in marketing campaigns by various companies, amplifying its reach beyond the confines of the internet.
  • Enduring Memetic Legacy: The phrase’s enduring popularity is a testament to its memetic staying power. While internet trends and memes often have short lifespans, “I like turtles” has proven to be an exception, maintaining its relevance and recognition long after its initial surge in popularity.
  • Community Inside Joke: Within the online community, the catchphrase has become an inside joke and a symbol of shared experience. People who are familiar with the “Zombie Kid” video and the ensuing meme culture share a unique bond, adding to its significance as an internet icon.
  • Internet Resilience: The phrase’s ability to persist over time highlights the unpredictable and resilient nature of internet culture. It serves as a reminder that seemingly minor moments or statements can take on a life of their own, shaping the online landscape in unexpected ways.

“I like turtles” has left an indelible mark on internet culture as a symbol of joy, simplicity, and the power of viral content. Its ability to endure and evolve in the ever-changing digital landscape speaks to its significance as a beloved icon that continues to resonate with netizens, new and old alike.

IV. The reaction from the community after Jonathon Ware returns in new commercials


Jonathon Ware’s comeback in the promotional advertisement for “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” elicited a wide range of reactions from the online community. As with any viral sensation making a return after a significant hiatus, opinions were varied, encompassing both positive and negative sentiments.

1. Positive Reactions

  • Nostalgia and Fondness: Many netizens who were familiar with the original “Zombie Kid” video expressed nostalgia and fondness upon seeing Jonathon Ware once again. They appreciated the nod to internet history and the opportunity to revisit a beloved moment from their past.
  • Heartwarming Endorsement: Some users found Jonathon’s enthusiastic endorsement of the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie heartwarming. They viewed it as a testament to his authenticity and genuine appreciation for the franchise, which resonated with fans of both the original video and the movie series.
  • Positive Reception of the Ad: The advertisement itself received praise for its clever incorporation of the “Zombie Kid” concept into the movie’s promotion. Many admired the creative approach and saw it as a delightful surprise within the marketing campaign.

2. Negative Reactions

  • Forced Exploitation: On the other hand, some individuals felt that Jonathon’s return in the ad was a forced attempt to capitalize on the nostalgia surrounding the original video. They expressed concerns that it might come across as exploiting a viral moment from the past for promotional purposes.
  • Overused Meme: For a small segment of the internet community, the phrase “I like turtles” has become an overused and worn-out meme, leading to apathy or annoyance at its reappearance in the advertisement.
  • Lack of Authenticity: A few critics questioned the authenticity of Jonathon’s role in the ad, suggesting that the innocence and spontaneity of the original “Zombie Kid” were lost in the scripted context of a promotional campaign.

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

V. Overview of the movie “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”


“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” is the highly anticipated action-packed film that continues the legendary journey of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Scheduled for release on August 2nd, this installment brings back the beloved characters, Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael, to entertain fans with their martial arts skills and camaraderie.

The movie promises thrilling action sequences as the ninja turtles face new villains and challenges in their quest to protect New York City. With advancements in CGI and special effects, “Mutant Mayhem” is set to deliver a visual spectacle, capturing the hearts of audiences with its stunning visuals and iconic characters.

At its core, the film explores themes of friendship and unity, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between the ninja turtles. The return of Jonathon Ware, the “Zombie Kid,” in the promotional ad adds to the excitement surrounding the movie’s release, creating a sense of nostalgia and intrigue among fans.

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” is poised to be an exhilarating cinematic experience, appealing to both long-time enthusiasts and newcomers to the TMNT universe. As the turtles return to the big screen, fans can expect an unforgettable adventure filled with action, humor, and the enduring message of friendship and teamwork.

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

VI. Conclude


The story of “Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles” and its impact on the online community and internet culture has been nothing short of remarkable. The viral sensation sparked by Jonathon Ware’s innocent proclamation of “I like turtles” during a live broadcast on KGW transcended its original context to become an enduring internet icon.

The phrase “I like turtles” became a meme that spread like wildfire, captivating internet users worldwide. It symbolized a simpler and more carefree era of internet culture, evoking nostalgia for those who witnessed its meteoric rise to fame. The phrase’s versatility allowed it to be creatively incorporated into various memes and online content, making it an enduring part of internet humor.

Jonathon Ware’s return in the promotional ad for “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” served as a heartwarming homage to his viral legacy, connecting the past with the present. The fact that his reappearance garnered mixed reactions underscored the lasting impact he had on the internet community, as well as the internet’s ability to preserve and revisit its cherished moments.

Zombie Kid Ninja Turtles: The Story Of The Internet Icon

Please note that all information presented in this article has been obtained from a variety of sources, including wikipedia.org and several other newspapers. Although we have tried our best to verify all information, we cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is correct and has not been 100% verified. Therefore, we recommend caution when referencing this article or using it as a source in your own research or report.
Back to top button