Gen Z embraces millennial culture on TikTok

Many members of Generation Z are starting to appreciate millennial culture, which they once viewed as outdated or "cheugy." Young people, aged 12 to 27, are sharing their fondness for things like BuzzFeed quizzes, skinny jeans, and shows like "Girls" on TikTok. This trend marks a shift towards nostalgia for an era they didn't directly experience. Derek Deng, a 22-year-old from Brooklyn, expressed this change in attitude. He now sees millennial culture as “delightfully cringe” and wholesome. Many Gen Zers are celebrating aspects of the millennial experience as they face unique challenges in today's world. According to Pamela Aronson, a sociology professor, this nostalgia is a response to the uncertainty Gen Z faces today, including the impacts of the pandemic and current social issues. Christian Guarin, another 22-year-old, reflected on how the 2010s felt hopeful, especially with the election of Barack Obama. This sense of optimism appeals to many young adults today. Recent online trends highlight this nostalgia, with Gen Z revisiting pop songs from the early 2010s. A TikTok parody by comedian Kyle Gordon, for example, evokes the catchy music of that decade. However, despite their appreciation for the past, many Gen Zers report struggling with mental health issues in the present. A Gallup report indicates that a significant percentage of Gen Z experiences anxiety and depression. The pandemic has worsened feelings of isolation and dissatisfaction. Deng noted their shared frustration with the current social climate and how nostalgia helps them process these feelings. Technology also plays a role in how Gen Z interacts with culture. Many feel that platforms like Tumblr were more authentic than today’s social media, which often emphasizes curated images and lifestyles. People like Steph Peralta recall how past platforms allowed for more genuine expression. Shows like "Girls" are becoming popular again among Gen Z. The characters embody relatable struggles that resonate with today’s young adults. The change in perspective shows that Gen Z is slowly abandoning their earlier criticisms of millennials, embracing what they once viewed as "cringe." As Guarin puts it, “to be cringe is to be free.”