The Brief

"Brain rot" refers to mindless, often absurd online content popular with kids and tweens, especially on TikTok and Roblox.

A viral subgenre called "Italian brain rot" features surreal AI characters with nonsense songs that have spread worldwide.

Experts say the content reflects generational humor and a need for kids to unwind, not necessarily a threat to their well-being.

In early 2025, an AI-generated ballerina with a cappuccino cup for a head racked up more than 55 million TikTok views. Known as Ballerina Cappuccina , the character sings in a deep, computer-generated male voice that mixes Italian words with gibberish.

She’s one of the leading stars of "Italian brain rot," a viral meme trend made up of surreal characters, absurdist music and storylines that don’t make sen

See Full Page