In the vast ocean of early YouTube memes, there are a few that continue to resonate with those who have spent considerable time online. One such timeless gem is the Zombie Kid, also known as Jonathan. His original video, first uploaded in 2007, has amassed a staggering 73 million views, and countless people can still recite it verbatim. The video captures a humorous news segment where a reporter interviews a young boy with zombie-like face makeup. When asked about his eerie appearance, he responds in a hilariously deadpan manner, saying, "I like turtles." It's an example of the kind of bizarre internet humor that defies explanation but never fails to elicit laughter.
Fast forward 13 years, and the Zombie Kid makes a delightful comeback to promote the upcoming "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem" movie. In a brilliant move by Paramount Pictures, a new video recreates the original scene, featuring a reporter dressed as April O'Neil, discussing Jonathan's zombie makeup, and once again, he nonchalantly declares, "I like turtles." This clever marketing strategy capitalizes on the enduring popularity of the old meme while simultaneously promoting a current film—an ingenious solution during the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, which restricts actors from promoting their projects.
The internet thrives on randomness, and for many, this nostalgic return of the Zombie Kid might be the first time they've thought about him in years. So, let's delve into what happened to the Zombie Kid after his viral moment all those years ago and what he's been up to.
Jonathan, the Forever 'I Like Turtles' Kid
The legend of the Zombie Kid has not faded with time; in fact, even before the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem" promo, he made occasional appearances in the virtual realm. An episode of "Tosh.0" on Comedy Central predicted Jonathan Ware's connection to the "TMNT" universe. The show, known for inviting internet celebrities for "Web Redemptions," featured Jonathan a few years after his initial viral video. Host Daniel Tosh asked him about the video and, amusingly, about how he had just visited a turtle exhibit, indicating that turtles remained on his mind despite sporting a zombie makeover. The episode took a hilarious turn as Tosh brought Ware into a room filled with turtle paraphernalia while he himself dressed up as Raphael from the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," unleashing a barrage of turtle-themed jokes.
Although Jonathan was just 13 during his "Tosh.0" appearance, he has grown into adulthood. In 2023, The Sun investigated what he's been up to since his viral video days. It turns out he started his own YouTube channel aptly named "It's Turtle Time," where he greeted his fans and, of course, uttered his famous catchphrase, "I like turtles." The channel amassed around 1,000 subscribers before he eventually closed it down.
Jonathan Ware is indelibly linked with turtles, and regardless of where life takes him, he will forever be remembered as the 'I like turtles' kid. With the "Mutant Mayhem" TV series and a sequel already greenlit by Paramount, he may have more promotional opportunities lined up. One thing is certain: after "Mutant Mayhem" hits theaters on August 2, a new wave of kids will undoubtedly be echoing the words, "I like turtles."