#43: The Crystal Ball of the 1990s
Although this appears incidental, the hindsight it provides is quite striking. Nowadays, answering calls from Karens is far from appealing. Could this be the initial Karen reference that ignited the trend? Regrettably, no. The credit for coining the term is often attributed to American comedian Dane Cook, though some contend he lifted the skit from Louis CK.
The bit “The Friend That Nobody Likes” debuted in 2004. If the query arises whether the Karen meme or the “Speak to the Manager” haircut emerged first, it’s the latter; nevertheless, Karen swiftly gained traction as a convenient moniker for white women who exploit their privilege to create trouble for those “below” them. It’s undoubtedly etched in history.