The '3 Stages of a Real Nigga' meme is a multi-panel template that originally circulated within hood irony and gaming communities, often featuring characters like CJ from Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. It depicts a linear progression of a character's life or mindset, typically transitioning from a state of struggle to one of enlightenment or peak performance. While it started as a way to portray genuine street growth or loyalty, it has evolved into a highly versatile vehicle for irony, where the 'stages' are replaced with increasingly absurd or unrelated concepts. It is a staple in modern meme culture for highlighting dramatic personal transformations, whether serious or satirical.