The Kyle Rittenhouse Crying meme originated from the televised trial of Kyle Rittenhouse in November 2021, specifically during his emotional testimony regarding the events in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The image of him breaking down on the stand quickly went viral across social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok. While some viewers found the display genuine, a large portion of the internet began using the image to symbolize crocodile tears or exaggerated distress. It is now commonly used in a satirical context to mock individuals perceived as acting overly emotional to gain sympathy or to humorously represent one's own minor inconveniences and dramatic reactions.