Talking Tom and Friends originated from the popular mobile app franchise by Outfit7, where players interact with anthropomorphic animals like Tom the cat and Ben the dog. While initially a hit with children, the characters evolved into massive internet icons through surreal edits, deep-fried humor, and ironic shitposting. Talking Ben specifically became a viral sensation on TikTok and YouTube due to his dismissive telephone responses and 'Yes/No' catchphrases. These memes typically leverage the characters' expressive 3D animations to represent relatable social anxiety, awkward phone calls, or chaotic energy, making the template a staple of modern Gen Z and Alpha internet culture.