The Turning Red meme phenomenon originated from the 2022 Disney/Pixar film centered on Mei Lee, a teenager who transforms into a giant red panda when experiencing intense emotions. Memes typically feature Mei's expressive reactions, her supportive group of friends, or the iconic 'creepy' stare from her mother, Ming Lee, through a classroom window. These templates became an instant hit for portraying relatable moments of teenage angst, fangirl obsession, and the feeling of being watched. The meme captures the chaotic, emotional energy of the film, making it a staple for social media users expressing everything from excitement to pure secondhand embarrassment.