The 'Sarcastically Surprised Kirk' meme features Captain James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner, from the 1967 Star Trek episode 'The Apple.' The image captures a moment where Kirk gasps with wide eyes and raised hands, conveying a high level of performative shock. In internet culture, this image is the ultimate reaction face for responding to someone who states something blindingly obvious or predictable. It first gained traction on image boards like 4chan and Reddit in the late 2000s, becoming a staple of sarcastic commentary. Whether it's mocking a corporate scandal everyone saw coming or a friend's late realization, Shatner's over-the-top acting remains the gold standard for feigned disbelief.