TikTok is no stranger to viral dance trends, and the latest craze taking over the platform is the Rat Dance. Thanks to popular YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed, this quirky dance has skyrocketed in popularity, amassing over 150 million views on TikTok alone. But what exactly is the Rat Dance, and how did it become so viral? Let’s dive into the details.
The Origins of the Rat Dance
The Rat Dance first appeared on TikTok in late 2024, created by a user named Ratomilton. This account featured a 3D animated rat performing unique dance moves to the beat of “Chess Type Beat” by producer Joyful. The dance itself is inspired by the Criss Cross emote from the popular game Fortnite, making it both fun and easy to replicate.
Ratomilton’s videos quickly gained traction, but it wasn’t until IShowSpeed joined the trend that the Rat Dance went mega-viral. Speed, known for his energetic personality and massive online following, posted his version of the dance, which instantly became a hit. His video has since been viewed millions of times, with fans dubbing it the “IShowSpeed Dance”.
How IShowSpeed Boosted the Trend
IShowSpeed’s influence on TikTok trends is undeniable. His Rat Dance video not only entertained his fans but also inspired countless others to try the dance themselves. Many TikTok users began tagging Speed in their attempts, while others compared their moves to his in the comments. Phrases like “No one beats IShowSpeed” became common, sparking friendly debates among fans.
The trend also caught the attention of other popular creators, including Ibai and LaCobra, who replicated the dance on their own TikTok accounts. Ibai’s video, in particular, garnered over 2 million views in just a few hours, proving the widespread appeal of the Rat Dance.
The Dance’s Connection to Fortnite
One of the reasons the Rat Dance resonates so well with audiences is its connection to Fortnite. The Criss Cross emote, which inspired the dance, is already familiar to millions of gamers. This crossover between gaming and TikTok culture has made the trend even more accessible and fun for a global audience.
Some fans have even speculated that the Rat Dance could become an official emote in Fortnite. With its growing popularity, it wouldn’t be surprising to see it added to the game’s Item Shop in the near future.
Why the Rat Dance is Here to Stay
The Rat Dance is more than just a fleeting trend. Its simplicity, combined with the star power of IShowSpeed, has made it a cultural phenomenon. The dance has also sparked creativity among TikTok users, with many adding their own twists to the original moves.
As TikTok continues to evolve, trends like the Rat Dance highlight the platform’s ability to bring people together through shared experiences. Whether you’re a fan of IShowSpeed, Fortnite, or just love a good dance challenge, the Rat Dance is a trend worth trying.
