The 'Leave Britney Alone' meme originates from a raw, emotional video posted by Chris Crocker in 2007 in defense of pop star Britney Spears following her criticized performance at the MTV VMAs. Draped under a bedsheet and visibly crying, Crocker’s impassioned plea became one of the first truly viral YouTube sensations, garnering millions of views overnight. While initially met with mockery and countless parodies, the video is now viewed as a precursor to modern fan culture and influencer viral loops. In meme culture, it is used to humorously demand that people stop criticizing a specific person, brand, or hobby, capturing a state of exaggerated, tearful distress.