Long before we had labels like Boomers and Gen Z, people were often identified by their social circles—think “band kids,” “theatre nerds,” “jocks,” and “geeks.” Today, however, generational traits are frequently defined by online quizzes, viral memes, and even phrases like “OK, Boomer.”
But for those still wondering where they fit into the generational mosaic, comedian Tess Tregellas offered a hilariously simple solution in a video that captivated millions last year.
The video, which originally went viral, brought Tregellas’s unique take on generational divides to a massive audience, prompting widespread amusement and debate. It demonstrated how deeply ingrained pop culture references are in our collective identities.
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The "Hey Now" Challenge
The overlay caption on Tregellas's short clip read, “How to spot a millennial.” In the video, Tess initiated a song lyric quiz, kicking things off with the prompt “Hey now” to see how her audience would respond. She confidently stated that their musical reply would instantly reveal their generational belonging. “I am going to sing a part of a lyric and you’re going to sing the other part,” she explained.
As the video unfolded and participants chimed in with their answers, Tess provided the breakdown:
- If someone sang, “Hey now, you’re a rock star,” they were likely a Millennial, recognizing the iconic Smash Mouth song from Shrek.
- If the response was “Hey now, hey now,” that person was a Millennial "cusper," hinting at Generation X roots, recalling Hilary Duff’s “What Dreams Are Made Of” from The Lizzie McGuire Movie.
- And if there was no response at all, that individual most likely belonged to Gen Z.
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Meanwhile, if a person belted out, “Hey now, hey now, don’t dream it’s over,” they were identified as a Boomer. These are the lyrics to the 1986 classic “Don’t Dream It’s Over” by the rock band Crowded House, widely recognized as one of the most memorable tunes of the 80s. Even famed fiction author and self-proclaimed Boomer, Stephen King, expressed his fondness for the song in a July 2023 social media post, noting its beauty.
Listening to “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” by Crowded House. Such a pretty song.
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) July 31, 2023
Viral Reactions and Generational Debates
The video quickly amassed 6.7 million views in just a few days when it first dropped, garnering over 197,000 likes and more than 1,400 comments. The reactions were a mixed bag, with many proving utterly hilarious.
"I’m a Gen Z who was raised by boomers with a millennial brother so I sang the Shrek and the Boomer song,” commented @nick_fog. @abbiesr exclaimed, “Wait you accurately identified that I’m a cusper that’s basically science.” Many also observed that Tess’s initial “Hey now” delivery subtly hinted at the Lizzie McGuire vibe.
Praise from and Internet commenter Image Source: Instagram | @jasonkingfromqueens
More online praiseImage Source: Instagram | @lofi_von
Gen X, however, expressed a bit of disappointment, feeling they were overlooked and deserved to be included in the “Don’t Dream It’s Over” category. @decent_tweaks commented, "Once again Gen X is overlooked." Similarly, @miesdarcy stated, "You forgot about Gen X... and we'd be singing 'Don’t Dream It’s Over,' not the Boomers."
While some asserted that Tess’s lyric markers weren't entirely accurate, there's some truth to her playful classifications. According to the Grammy Awards, Shrek’s “All Star” remains an unforgettable pop anthem for Millennials, while Gen Z often encounters it through internet memes.
- YouTubewww.youtube.com
As for The Lizzie McGuire Movie option, those who questioned its accuracy might have a point. The 2003 film is indeed known to be popular among young MillennialsMillennials, especially since Hilary Duff released her studio album, Metamorphosis, around the same time.
You can follow Tess Tregellas on Instagram and YouTube for more stand-up comedy videos.
This article originally appeared last year.
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Tina Fey at the Broadway Opening Night of "Mr. Saturday Night," 4/27/22
Amy Poehler and Tina Fey at the premiere of Baby Mama in New York City at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival.
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.