'Frieren' anime appears to reference viral ‘Looking Up’ meme in season 2 episode

Fans believe 'Frieren' season 2 included visual nod to a viral fan meme that spread widely online in 2025

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has become the centre of online discussion after fans identified what they believe is an official reference to one of the most widely shared anime memes of 2025.

The meme, commonly known as “Frieren Looking Up”, originated in November 2025 when a Reddit user, SpaceDev1, shared a rough fan drawing of the titular elf character viewed from an upward angle.

Despite its uneven proportions, the image spread rapidly across social media, with fans responding in a largely supportive and humorous manner. The drawing soon inspired redraws, edits and variations across Reddit and other platforms.

Following the release of season 2 episode 2, titled The Hero of the South, viewers began pointing out a brief moment that closely resembles the viral artwork. During a short action sequence, Frieren tilts her head upwards while tracking movement above her. Fans noted similarities in the camera angle, framing and background composition to SpaceDev1’s original drawing.

Some viewers argue the resemblance is coincidental, noting that animation production schedules would have been well underway before the meme gained traction. Others believe the likeness is specific enough to suggest intentional inclusion by Studio MADHOUSE. The studio has not commented on the comparison or confirmed whether the frame was a deliberate reference.

The moment has been widely shared by fans, many of whom view it as an example of the series’ connection with its online community.

The original meme was praised for generating positive engagement, with artists offering encouragement and constructive feedback to its creator rather than criticism.

The popularity of the image also led to a broader trend, with fans recreating the angle using other characters or incorporating exaggerated facial expressions for comedic effect.