Keyboard Cat

Keyboard Cat is a famous internet meme that originated from a 1984 video by Charlie Schmidt. In the video, his cat Fatso appears to play a keyboard, though Schmidt is actually controlling its movements off-camera. The video gained popularity in 2009 when Brad O'Farrell added it to the end of a blooper clip, making it look like the cat was "playing off" the person after a mistake, similar to vaudeville performances.

Although Fatso passed away in 1987, the meme continued to thrive. Schmidt later introduced two more cats, Bento and Skinny, to carry on the Keyboard Cat legacy. These new feline musicians starred in fresh videos, keeping the meme alive and entertaining audiences worldwide. The phrase "Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat" became a widely recognized internet joke, used to humorously signal an awkward or embarrassing moment.

Keyboard Cat has become an iconic symbol of internet culture, inspiring countless remixes, parodies, and references in media. From YouTube compilations to TV shows and commercials, the meme remains a beloved piece of digital history. With its lighthearted charm and timeless appeal, Keyboard Cat continues to bring joy to meme lovers everywhere.