Jack Karlson, Aussie Meme Legend, Dies at 82

Jack Karlson, the Australian man renowned for the viral “democracy manifest” meme, has passed away at age 82.

Karlson died on August 7, 2024, after battling cancer and other health conditions, including systemic inflammatory response syndrome.

Karlson gained fame from a 1991 clip of his arrest for eating a “succulent Chinese meal,” which only became widely known when it went viral on the internet in 2009.

The video showcased Karlson’s distinctive voice, colorful language, and theatrical personality, turning him into a global meme icon.

Despite his newfound internet fame, Karlson, who had worked as a professional painter and briefly dabbled in acting, remained modest about the incident.

He later embraced his internet fame, even allowing a wine brand to use his image for a product called “Get Your Hands Off My Pinot Noir.”

A documentary titled The Man Who Ate a Succulent Chinese Meal, directed by Heath Davis, is set to be released in early 2025, highlighting Karlson’s unique place in internet culture.

Karlson is survived by his daughter Heidi, son Erik, nieces Kim, Kelly, and Kerry, nephew Karl, grandchildren Terri-Lace and Nec, and many grandnieces and nephews.

His family remembered him fondly, saying he lived by his motto to keep on laughing despite life’s challenges.