Newsweek
Millennial thinks she has revelation about Gen Z humor—not everyone agrees
Brenna Pérez admitted she expected "some Gen Z to be unhappy, because I do feel like they're often a lot more reactionary online."
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Gen Z Humor: Why Inside Jokes Rule the Internet
Gen Z Humor: Inside Jokes and the Power of Shared References New York, NY – May 18, 2025 – A recent video by content creator Brenna Pérez (@perezbrenna) has sparked a conversation about the unique nature of Gen Z humor. Pérez argues that Gen Z humor relies heavily on shared references and inside jokes, creating a sense of community among those who understand them. This contrasts with the humor styles of older generations, who often appreciate more self-contained jokes. Pérez illustrates her point with examples from social media, citing instances where jokes only make sense to those familiar with specific online trends or events. "Gen Z finds funny is referential humor," Pérez explains in her video. "Other generations tend to appreciate a well-crafted joke that can be understood within its own context." She further notes the phenomenon of people seeking the "original" source of a joke, highlighting the importance of shared context for understanding and appreciating the humor. The video has generated considerable interest online, sparking discussions about generational differences in humor and the role of shared references in online communication. Pérez's insightful analysis provides a valuable perspective on how humor shapes and reflects online social dynamics. The video's popularity underscores the broader interest in understanding the nuances of online communication and generational culture.
