Crying Man Meme Explained: the Exact Clip, Original Source, and Where It Came From
By Chloe Bennett
When internet users reference the crying groom at altar meme, they are pointing to a specific video clip rather than a static sports photograph. That viral tearful reaction originated on May 14, 2016, during the wedding of Gabriel Deku and Annabella Deku at St Martin-in-the-Fields Church in Trafalgar Square, London.
Filmed by videography outfit De Rienzo Films, the camera captured Gabriel standing beside his best man. At the 0:45 mark of the viral clip, the church doors opened to reveal Annabella walking down the aisle. Gabriel turned, covered his face with both hands, and collapsed into intense, full-body sobs. His best man urged him to breathe, whispering, "Stand up, look at your wife."
The couple posted the footage online, and within 72 hours, it registered over 50 million views. Major broadcasters, including ABC News and Good Morning America, later brought Gabriel into the studio to discuss the cultural impact of the moment. Rather than serving as an insult, this sad face reaction GIF took on an affectionate dual life: used on Reddit and TikTok to depict overwhelming gratitude, romantic longing, or tongue-in-cheek dramatic relief.
Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.
