Hide the Pain Harold features Hungarian stock photo model András Arató, whose unique facial expression became a viral sensation in 2011 for appearing to mask deep internal anguish behind a polite smile. Originally discovered on stock photography sites, Arató's image quickly spread across message boards like 4chan and Reddit as the ultimate symbol of awkward social situations and forced optimism. The meme is widely used to represent the feeling of having to remain professional or happy while 'dying inside,' such as during long work meetings or uncomfortable social encounters. Arató has since embraced his internet fame, becoming one of the most beloved and recognizable faces in global meme culture.