The 'We Were Bad, But Now We're Good' meme originates from a 2009 YouTube video titled 'The Sex Offender Shuffle,' which was a parody of 1980s-style public service announcements. Created by Scott Gairdner, the video features a group of characters singing a rap about their criminal pasts while claiming they have changed for the better. The specific catchphrase has since become a viral reaction image used to mock organizations, celebrities, or brands that attempt to quickly pivot from a scandal or rebrand without actual substance. Its popularity stems from the awkward 80s aesthetic, the absurdity of the premise, and the deadpan delivery of the performers.