Bertstrips originated on Reddit's /r/bertstrips in 2013, evolving from a simple parody of the beloved children's show Sesame Street into a hub for pitch-black comedy. The format typically pairs wholesome imagery of Bert, Ernie, and the gang with captions that imply grotesque, illegal, or morally bankrupt scenarios. By juxtaposing childhood innocence with adult themes like existential dread, crime, and nihilism, Bertstrips creates a jarring comedic effect that has maintained a massive cult following for over a decade. It is a staple of 'ruining your childhood' internet culture.