Explaining the meaning behind the famous ‘Grandma’s funeral’ meme

The Funeral Of Prince Philip, Duke Of Edinburgh Is Held In Windsor - Source: Getty
The Funeral Of Prince Philip, Duke Of Edinburgh Is Held In Windsor - Source: Getty

The internet has a pretty whacky sense of humor— ask the 'Grandma’s funeral' meme that’s been circulating for a while now. It features an unexpected combination of solemnity and absurdity, and yes, we're talking about a hilarious funeral attire-based joke. Originating from the viral YouTube content creator Fernanfloo, this meme taps into the hilarity of inappropriate scenarios, particularly one involving dressing up for a supposedly serious event—like a funeral.

The concept? A photo of someone in an outrageously ridiculous outfit (i.e., pajamas) during a significant, somber moment, which in this case happens to be a grandmother’s funeral. On the other side of the template is the person wearing a tuxedo for a seemingly silly cultural event that is customizable in every meme.


When a meme gets the last laugh—Even at a funeral

The Origins: A Fernanfloo special

The ‘Grandma’s funeral’ meme traces its origins to a clip from Fernanfloo, a popular YouTuber known for his over-the-top comedic style. In one video, he casually drops the idea of dressing up in a wild outfit (pajamas, in case you forgot) for a significant life event—like a funeral. This moment, combined with his signature absolutely unhinged energy, was clipped and turned into a meme that captured the attention of social media users, especially on platforms like Twitter and Reddit.

At its core, the meme relies on the humorous contrast between the seriousness of a funeral and the absolute absurdity of dressing outrageously or inappropriately for the occasion...of someone dying. It’s this clash of moods that makes the meme so hilarious. Social media took hold of this concept, creating captions that range from the relatable (like trying to stand out at family events) to the completely absurd (attending your grandma’s funeral dressed as Batman).


Why it resonates: Humor in the unexpected

The ‘Grandma’s funeral’ meme is successful because it taps into a universal experience: awkward family gatherings. Funerals, weddings, and holiday dinners are prime ground for family dynamics, and in these situations, anything out of the ordinary feels extra awkward—and extra funny. Add a pop culture reference, and the internet’s love for the unpredictable and you have a meme that transcends any platform.

On top of that, the meme plays with the idea of rebellion. At a time when you’re expected to act one way (quiet, respectful), the very notion of dressing like a clown or wearing an over-the-top costume as if it's a regular Tuesday feels like a personal triumph of individuality. For Gen Z, a generation that thrives on standing out and breaking norms, this meme is relatable in a deeply ironic way. It says, “Yeah, I’m at grandma’s funeral—but I’m still going to express myself!”


The Spread and evolution

As with any good meme, ‘Grandma’s funeral’ has evolved. Different versions have popped up across social media, each putting its own spin on the concept. Some versions play up the fashion angle, poking fun at people who overdress for the wrong occasion. Others add absurdity to serious moments, reminding us that sometimes, you just have to laugh in the face of gravity.

Twitter users, in particular, have had a great time retweeting and customizing this meme, sharing their takes on what they’d wear to different “grandma’s funeral” scenarios. Some versions feature elaborate costumes, while others go the minimalist route—like showing up in pajamas. The flexibility of the meme has kept it alive and thriving as part of meme culture.

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Edited by Debanjana