Ronnie Pickering
Ronnie Pickering | |
|---|---|
 Image of Pickering in his red peugeot | |
| Born | March 3, 1958 |
| Nationality | British |
| Known for | Raging at a motorcyclist |
Ronnie Pickering is a British internet celebrity who gained widespread attention and became a meme sensation in 2015 after a road rage incident. Born on March 3, 1958, in Kingston upon Hull, England, Pickering's passionate outburst and his now-famous phrase, "Do you know who I am?!" during the confrontation made him a viral sensation and a subject of humour and parody on the internet.
Road Rage Incident and Internet Fame
On September 22, 2015, a video of an altercation between Ronnie Pickering and a motorcyclist went viral on social media platforms and video sharing websites. The video, recorded by the motorcyclist, captured a heated argument between the two parties at a traffic intersection in Hull. During the confrontation, Pickering repeatedly asked the motorcyclist if he knew who he was and issued threats of physical violence.
The video quickly gained traction and became an internet sensation. Memes, remixes, and parodies featuring Ronnie Pickering and his catchphrase flooded social media platforms, attracting millions of views and engagements. The incident and subsequent online fame propelled Pickering into the spotlight, and his name became synonymous with the aggressive, confrontational behaviour depicted in the video.
Media Appearances and Popularity
Following the viral incident, Ronnie Pickering received substantial media attention and was featured in numerous interviews and television appearances. His newfound fame led to invitations for radio interviews, public events, and even merchandise based on his catchphrase.
Despite his internet fame, Ronnie Pickering has largely maintained a low profile and has not pursued an extensive career in the public eye. However, his name and the video clip of his confrontation continue to be referenced and shared online, serving as a reminder of the power of viral internet phenomena and the enduring nature of internet memes.
Legacy and Impact
The rise of Ronnie Pickering as an internet meme and viral sensation reflects the unpredictable nature of online fame and the rapid spread of content in the digital age. The incident and subsequent parodies have provided amusement for many internet users, showcasing the unique and often humorous ways in which online communities engage with popular culture and current events.
Ronnie Pickering's catchphrase and the associated meme have become part of internet culture, with references occasionally appearing in various contexts online. While the incident itself may have been a moment of road rage, it serves as a light-hearted reminder of the entertainment and amusement that can arise from unexpected internet phenomena.
References
- The Guardian. (2015, September 24). "Road rage Ronnie Pickering: who is the viral star?". Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/sep/24/road-rage-ronnie-pickering-who-is-viral-star
- BBC News. (2015, September 29). "Ronnie Pickering Hull driver road rage video goes viral". Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-humber-34392015
- Know Your Meme. (n.d.). "Ronnie Pickering". Retrieved from https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/ronnie-pickering
