Meet Phillip Banks: The Artist Behind Viral ‘Chill Guy’ Meme
3 min read
The “Chill Guy” meme, a quirky illustration of a dog dressed as a laid-back human, has taken the internet by storm. From social media platforms to cryptocurrency markets, the character has become a cultural phenomenon. But who is the creator behind this viral sensation? Enter Phillip Banks, a North Carolina-based artist whose creative vision brought “Chill Guy” to life.
The Birth of ‘Chill Guy’
Phillip Banks introduced the world to the “Chill Guy” in an artwork shared on X (formerly Twitter). The meme quickly caught fire, resonating with audiences who appreciated its lighthearted charm and relatability. Banks, who frequently shares his work on Instagram and X, boasts over 20,000 followers on Instagram and more than 60,000 on X. His vibrant and eclectic portfolio highlights his knack for creating characters that strike a chord with fans.
I’m lowkey a chill guy. I see chill guy memes and I retweet them. I’m just a chill guy pic.twitter.com/5AuDqctkf9
— Cowboy Timotheé (@timmyhustle25) November 19, 2024Advertisement
In an October 2023 Q&A session on Instagram, Banks revealed the inspiration behind the “Chill Guy.” He envisioned the character as a carefree figure who exuded a vibe of not taking life too seriously. “I wanted people to know he was a chill guy, but also lowkey didn’t give a f***,” Banks explained.
The Meme’s Meteoric Rise
The “Chill Guy” quickly evolved from a viral meme to a cultural icon. Its signature smirk and relaxed demeanor have inspired countless memes and videos across platforms like TikTok and X. Even El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele featured the character on his official X account, further cementing its global appeal.
In a surprising twist, the meme also entered the cryptocurrency world, sparking the creation of a meme coin that skyrocketed in value by 538% within days. This development marked a new chapter in the meme’s popularity, blending internet culture with the world of digital finance.
The artist Phillip Banks @PhillipBankss , who created Just A Chill Guy meme, made a post about taking legal action as his artwork is copyrighted, specifically looking to target merchandise and shitcoins aka. memecoins.
Less than 6hrs later and he locked his account. Presumably… pic.twitter.com/BAWSL4No1L— Billy 🇦🇺♒️🎢🍮🥷 (@BillyBoda) November 21, 2024Advertisement
On November 21, 2024, Banks announced he had copyrighted the “Chill Guy” character. Taking to X, he wrote: “Just putting it out there, the chill guy has been copyrighted. Like, legally. I’ll be issuing takedowns on for-profit related things over the next few days.” This move aims to protect his intellectual property amid its widespread commercial use.
The “Chill Guy” has become more than just a meme; it’s a symbol of simplicity, humor, and stress-free living. With its relatable messaging and widespread appeal, Phillip Banks’ creation has left an indelible mark on internet culture. As the artist takes steps to protect his work, fans eagerly await what he might create next.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
