In early April 2012, an internet legend rose to popularity on social media all across the globe. Tardar Sauce, better known as Grumpy Cat, was born in Morristown, Arizona and was diagnosed with feline dwarfism and an underbite. This gave the cat a very unique face, which gave her the appearance of a perpetual frown. Contrary to her appearance, she lived a very happy life with her owner, Tabatha Bundesen. When pictures were shared of Tardar Sauce on Reddit in September of the same year that she was born, “Grumpy Cat” went viral. The cat became a phenomenon on social media and the Bundesen family was urged to share more content from “Grumpy”, who soon became the most famous cat on the internet. Millions of people made some of the first “memes” of the internet as we know it today, using different captions on Tardar’s pictures to create jokes.

Unfortunately, Tardar Sauce has recently passed away due to an infection, despite the utmost care provided by the family veterinarian. She was 7 years old and died in the arms of Tabatha, who later posted a final message on all of the Grumpy Cat fan accounts. Many followers of “Grumpy” expressed their sadness over the passing of the famous cat, sharing pictures of their own grumpy kitties to show their support for Tabatha and her family. Tardar Sauce was more than just a meme for many who followed the cat’s activities online for years. Tabatha had taken Tardar Sauce all across the world on various tours and public appearances. There is also a merch store for the cat where fans can buy t-shirts, mugs, Christmas ornaments, and other items featuring the famous feline. Her passing marks a sign of the times and serves as a remembrance of just how long the internet and the culture of the web have been around.

Since “Grumpy Cat” there have been thousands of unique and funny pets to go viral, but none captured the hearts of the people like Tardar Sauce. She will be missed by her family and millions of fans, and my condolences go out to the Bundesens in this difficult time.