The 'I Was Acting' meme features actor Giancarlo Esposito, famous for his portrayal of chilling villains like Gus Fring, during a theatrical interview where he explains his craft. The meme captures the moment he shifts from a menacing, intense expression back to a serene smile, punctuated by the iconic line. It is widely used across social media to humorously justify moments of extreme drama, toxic behavior, or elaborate pranks as if they were merely a high-level performance. The template thrives on the juxtaposition between chaotic energy and the cold, calculated professionalism for which Esposito is renowned.