The 'Brian, I'm Sorry' meme originates from the long-running animated sitcom Family Guy, specifically drawing from the show's frequent dramatic and emotional beats involving Brian Griffin and Stewie. While the series is known for its cutaway gags, the moments of genuine (or exaggerated) pathos between these two characters became fertile ground for internet humor. The meme is typically used to represent a feeling of mock regret or to foreshadow a betrayal that is about to happen. It gained significant traction in shitposting communities where users pair the heavy emotional weight of the phrase with mundane or absurd scenarios, making it a versatile template for both serious and ironic commentary.