The 'Rowley Waves Then Looks Down' meme originates from a scene in the live-action 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' film series featuring the character Rowley Jefferson, played by Robert Capron. In the clip, Rowley offers a cheerful, enthusiastic wave before quickly averting his eyes and looking down in a moment of visible embarrassment or rejection. This template became a viral sensation on TikTok and X as a way to illustrate social awkwardness, such as waving at someone who doesn't see you or realizing you've made a mistake in a social setting. It perfectly captures the transition from pure, innocent joy to crushing realization or second-hand embarrassment.