Meet Tom: The Viral Lizard Meme Taking Over TikTok

Photo by Valeriia Miller on Unsplash
Move over, dancing cat videos , there’s a new internet sensation in town. A quirky animated lizard from an upcoming Pixar movie has become the latest viral TikTok phenomenon, captivating millions with a simple yet oddly mesmerizing soundbite.
The meme originates from a post-credits scene in the Pixar film “Elio,” featuring a green reptile repeatedly tapping a screen while an automated voice says “lizard” , a seemingly mundane interaction that has somehow captured the collective imagination of social media users.
Since the clip first surfaced, creative internet users have transformed the moment into an explosion of content. Creators have used the green-screen template to represent everything from workplace frustration to skipping through boring playlists. One particularly innovative TikToker has even created viral musical mashups, remixing the “lizard” soundbite with popular tracks like Eminem’s “Rap God” and Cardi B’s “WAP”.
The meme has transcended digital platforms, with fans creating merchandise like T-shirts and even a cake featuring the now-famous lizard. The phenomenon has become so widespread that an EDM performer recently incorporated the meme into a live festival set.
Pixar has officially acknowledged the meme’s popularity, revealing the lizard’s name is Tom and teasing his appearance in the upcoming film “Hoppers,” set to release in March 2026. While details about Tom remain mysterious, his viral moment demonstrates the internet’s incredible ability to transform the most unexpected moments into cultural touchstones.
As the meme continues to spread, one thing is certain: Tom the lizard has secured his place in the pantheon of internet fame, proving that sometimes, all it takes is a repetitive soundbite and a charming green reptile to capture millions of hearts.
AUTHOR: cgp
SOURCE: NBC Bay Area