Don't Hug Me I'm Scared (DHMIS) began as a viral YouTube web series created by Becky Sloan and Joe Pelling, blending the aesthetic of children's puppet shows with psychological horror and existentialism. The meme variants typically draw from the series' disturbing songs and surreal lessons, such as the infamous 'Green is not a creative color' line from the first episode. These memes are widely used to highlight situations that start out innocent but quickly become unhinged, or to mock forced optimism and corporate educational content. Its transition from a cult web series to a mainstream meme staple reflects the internet's love for dark humor and the subversion of childhood nostalgia.