What Is Rickrolling? 12 Best Rick Rolls + Top Ones To Send

Key Takeaways:

• Rickrolling: An internet prank.
• Iconic moments from celebrities.
• Top pranks to send your friends.
• Psychology of surprise and humor.
• Creative ways to get Rickrolled.

Ah, the thrill of the unexpected! If you've ever found yourself jamming to the catchy chorus of Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up" when you were expecting something entirely different, congratulations—you've been Rickrolled. This internet phenomenon has not just stood the test of time; it has evolved, infiltrating pop culture, and still manages to catch people off guard in the most delightful ways.

But why do we fall for it every time? There's something about the mix of anticipation, surprise, and nostalgia that hooks us. From celebrities trolling their own fans to clever TikTok traps, the Rickroll has become a cultural staple. We'll take you through some of the greatest Rickrolls ever pulled off and even arm you with the best ones to send your unsuspecting friends. Let's dive into the world of playful internet mischief and explore why we can't get enough of being Rickrolled!

What is Rickrolling?

Rickrolling is one of the internet's most enduring pranks—a timeless meme that keeps on giving. At its core, Rickrolling involves tricking someone into clicking a link that leads to the music video of Rick Astley's 1987 hit "Never Gonna Give You Up." What starts as a promise of exciting news, a juicy secret, or a groundbreaking announcement quickly pivots into that unforgettable beat and Rick Astley's smooth vocals.

But why is it so effective? It plays on a psychological concept known as the “bait and switch,” where your expectations are completely turned on their head. In psychology, this taps into the theory of incongruity resolution. Essentially, the brain loves solving puzzles and enjoys the surprise of the unexpected—once the initial confusion fades, laughter (and maybe a bit of annoyance) follows.

Rickrolling gained traction in the mid-2000s, particularly on platforms like YouTube and Reddit, becoming the ultimate bait-and-switch meme. For some, it's a throwback to a simpler, more carefree internet era. For others, it's simply hilarious to watch their friends' reactions when they realize they've been had. As psychologist Robert Provine, author of Laughter: A Scientific Investigation, puts it: "Laughter is a social signal. It's less about jokes and more about shared moments." And really, what better way to share a moment than getting Rickrolled?

Top Rickrolls of All Time

While the meme itself is simple, its applications have been nothing short of legendary. From high-profile celebrities to entire governments, no one has been immune to its charm. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic Rickrolls that took the internet (and sometimes the real world) by storm.

1. Rick Astley Pranked by His Own Song

Imagine the irony: the man behind the Rickroll meme getting Rickrolled himself! In 2020, during a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, Rick Astley was hilariously pranked by users who managed to sneak his own song into various questions. Astley, with his ever-good-natured spirit, took it all in stride. In fact, he later admitted that he found the whole phenomenon incredibly amusing, showing that he's just as entertained by the meme as the rest of us.

When even the meme's creator can laugh at being Rickrolled, it speaks volumes about its enduring charm. Astley himself has said in interviews, “It's something that has given a lot of joy to people.” And honestly, isn't that what it's all about? The joy of the unexpected, of flipping the mundane into something worth laughing over.

2. Oregon House Rickrolled During Session

In 2011, members of the Oregon House of Representatives decided to pull a lighthearted prank in the middle of a serious legislative session. Representatives cleverly inserted lyrics from "Never Gonna Give You Up" into their speeches without missing a beat, effectively Rickrolling the entire House. The kicker? It took a while before anyone caught on.

This Rickroll went viral, showcasing how even serious settings can embrace a bit of internet culture. It's a great reminder that even in the most formal environments, there's always room for humor. According to research, laughter helps break down social barriers and can even increase productivity, making this prank not just funny but potentially beneficial to workplace culture.

3. Foo Fighters Troll Westboro Protesters

The Foo Fighters have never been ones to shy away from making a statement, especially when it comes to spreading positivity in the face of hate. In one of their most legendary Rickrolls, the band trolled the notorious Westboro Baptist Church protesters. During a protest outside one of their concerts in 2015, the Foo Fighters rolled up on a float, blasting Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up" while dancing and holding up signs that said “Keep It Clean.”

This wasn't just a random prank—it was a clever, joyful middle finger to bigotry. The crowd erupted in laughter as the protesters were caught off-guard, effectively turning a tense situation into a moment of pure fun. It shows how humor can be a powerful tool to disarm negativity. The Foo Fighters' Rickroll wasn't just entertaining; it became an iconic example of using humor to diffuse hate. Psychology tells us that humor can act as a social lubricant, reducing tension and opening the door to new perspectives.

4. Peter Griffin's Animated Rickroll

Family Guy's Peter Griffin has pulled off countless shenanigans over the years, but one of the most memorable involves a classic Rickroll. In one episode, Peter appears to be introducing a serious moment, only to break into Rick Astley's iconic dance moves. The twist was as unexpected as it was hilarious, perfectly capturing the spirit of Rickrolling.

This animated Rickroll became an instant hit among fans, further cementing the meme's place in pop culture. It's a testament to how Rickrolling has crossed into mainstream media and how it's become a universal symbol of playful deception. The key to its success? The element of surprise combined with nostalgia, triggering laughter that is both comforting and unexpected.

5. High Schooler's Epic Rickroll of School Board

Talk about using creativity to challenge authority! In 2021, a high school student in Michigan went viral for brilliantly Rickrolling his school board during a Zoom meeting. The student inserted lyrics from "Never Gonna Give You Up" into his speech, line by line, while keeping a straight face. The unsuspecting board members had no idea they were being pranked until it was too late.

What makes this prank so genius is how it used the element of subtlety. The student's clever wordplay and deadpan delivery highlight how humor can be a subversive tool to challenge the status quo. In psychology, pranks like these are an example of "benign violation theory," where breaking social norms in a harmless way results in laughter rather than anger. It's all about finding that sweet spot between surprise and playfulness.

6. 'Ted Lasso' Funeral Scene Rickroll

If you thought Rickrolling couldn't make its way into heartfelt television moments, think again. In the hit show "Ted Lasso," a scene set at a funeral took a comedic turn when a character delivered an emotional eulogy, only to end it with the lyrics of Rick Astley's hit. The somber atmosphere quickly shifted to laughter, leaving both characters and viewers in stitches.

This scene illustrates how Rickrolling has evolved beyond internet prank videos to become a beloved pop culture reference. The surprise here works on multiple levels: it's unexpected, yet somehow fitting for the show's tone, which blends heartwarming moments with irreverent humor. The laughter that erupts is a perfect example of “cognitive dissonance,” where the clash between the solemn setting and the lighthearted lyrics forces your brain to reconcile the two, often resulting in laughter.

7. Greta Thunberg's Climate Concert Prank

Even climate activists can appreciate a good prank. During a climate concert in 2019, Greta Thunberg surprised the audience by breaking into a Rickroll. As she spoke passionately about the environment, the crowd was ready for an inspiring call to action. Instead, they got Rick Astley's iconic lyrics—delivered with her signature deadpan expression.

The move was equal parts shocking and hilarious, proving that even the most serious activists can have a sense of humor. And honestly, what better way to reach people than through the unexpected? The juxtaposition between Thunberg's usual no-nonsense approach and the lightheartedness of the prank left fans laughing and thinking at the same time. This is the perfect example of how humor can cut through the noise and make a message even more memorable.

8. South Park Trolls the Trolls

Leave it to "South Park" to take Rickrolling to a whole new level. In one of the show's episodes, the creators managed to Rickroll not just the characters but also the viewers. Just when you think you're about to see something important, the show cuts to Astley's music video, leaving fans both confused and amused.

By incorporating the Rickroll into their satirical universe, "South Park" highlighted how even internet trolls can fall victim to a joke that's been around for years. It's a classic example of trolling the trolls—a move that's both clever and deeply satisfying. The show's creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, have always been masters at flipping the script, turning the tables on those who think they're in on the joke.

9. Padres Troll the Red Sox

Sports fans aren't immune to the Rickroll phenomenon either! During a 2018 baseball game, the San Diego Padres pulled off a surprise Rickroll on the visiting Boston Red Sox fans. The scoreboard flashed what seemed to be a heartfelt tribute video, only to cut to Rick Astley's music video at the most dramatic moment.

Stadium-wide pranks like these are a brilliant example of collective humor. The entire crowd gets to share a moment of laughter, which, according to psychologists, strengthens social bonds. It's that shared sense of “we've all been had” that turns a simple prank into a memorable event. In a world where sports rivalries can get heated, this lighthearted joke brought everyone together for a moment of fun.

10. Chargers Prank the Steelers

Rickrolling isn't just for the internet—it's now part of the sports arena playbook. During a 2019 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Los Angeles Chargers decided to lighten the mood by sneaking a Rickroll into the game's entertainment segments. Fans were treated to what they thought was a hype video, only to be greeted by the familiar beats of Rick Astley's hit.

This prank shows just how versatile Rickrolling has become. From the digital world to real-life stadiums, it proves that humor transcends boundaries. The Chargers' prank was a clever way to engage fans, turning an ordinary game night into a memorable experience. In an age where everyone is constantly bombarded with information, a well-timed Rickroll can be a refreshing surprise that brings people together.

11. 'Ralph Breaks the Internet' Rickrolls Fans

Even Disney got in on the action with "Ralph Breaks the Internet." In one scene, viewers expected a significant plot reveal, only for the film to cut to—yep, you guessed it—Rick Astley's “Never Gonna Give You Up.” It was a self-aware nod to internet culture that perfectly fit the film's theme of exploring the online world.

The inclusion of a Rickroll in a major animated film shows just how deeply embedded the meme has become in our culture. It's more than just a joke now; it's a shared experience that taps into our collective nostalgia. And let's face it, who wouldn't crack a smile at the unexpected sound of that iconic synth riff?

12. 'Westworld' Creators' Sneaky Rickroll

The creators of HBO's "Westworld" took Rickrolling to an entirely new level by using it to troll their own fans. Leading up to the show's third season, they teased viewers with a highly anticipated spoiler reveal. Fans eagerly clicked on the link, only to find themselves watching Rick Astley dance on screen. The creators later explained that it was a playful way to engage with their audience and keep them guessing.

This prank was particularly clever because it played on fans' intense desire for insider information. By turning that anticipation into a joke, the "Westworld" team reminded everyone to take a step back and not take things too seriously. It's a great reminder of how humor can break the tension and bring a bit of levity to even the most passionate fan communities.

Funniest Rickrolls to Send to Friends (or Foes)

Now that you know the best Rickrolls of all time, it's time to equip yourself with some clever ones to prank your friends—or maybe even your enemies (in a lighthearted way, of course). These Rickrolls are designed to catch people off guard and deliver that satisfying moment of realization when they hear those unmistakable opening notes. Whether you want to troll your best friend or lighten up a group chat, these creative Rickrolls will get the job done.

1. Cute Cat Video (But Wait!)

Who can resist a cute cat video? It's practically internet law that everyone must stop what they're doing to watch a feline being adorable. That's exactly what makes this Rickroll so effective. You send a link with the promise of “the cutest kitten ever,” and just as they're expecting an overload of cuteness, Rick Astley pops up instead.

This Rickroll works particularly well because it plays on the expectation of something heartwarming and wholesome. The abrupt shift from fluffy kittens to Rick Astley's 80s dance moves hits even harder, leaving your victim both amused and slightly betrayed. It's the perfect blend of anticipation and surprise—something that always works wonders for laughter.

2. Self Defense Trick (Not Really)

Here's one for the martial arts enthusiasts or anyone who's into fitness videos. The internet is filled with tutorials on self-defense, so why not take advantage of that? Send a link that promises “The Deadliest Self Defense Move Ever,” and watch as your friends get ready to learn a new technique—only to be greeted by Rick Astley grooving to his timeless hit.

In a way, this Rickroll taps into the idea of “clickbait,” where people are lured in by an irresistible promise. Psychologically, it's fascinating how we can't resist the urge to click on something that could potentially be useful or impressive. But when that promise turns into a joke, the laughter is a result of the sudden shift in expectations. Plus, who knew Rickrolling could be so disarming?

3. Hear an Artificial Heartbeat

This one's perfect for those who are fascinated by science and technology. The setup? “Listen to the sound of an artificial heart beating.” Sounds intriguing, right? The link takes them to what appears to be a legitimate medical research page, but instead of hearing the rhythmic thumping of a heart, they're treated to Rick Astley belting out “Never Gonna Give You Up.”

The brilliance of this prank lies in its subtlety. People expect something educational or even profound, and instead, they're pulled into a musical time warp. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best jokes are the ones that come when you least expect them. It's a bit of harmless fun that can break up the monotony of scrolling through serious content.

4. Strange Discovery Inside a Jet

For the aviation geeks and conspiracy theorists in your circle, this Rickroll is pure gold. Share a link claiming, “You won't believe what they found inside this abandoned jet,” and watch as curiosity leads them straight into a Rickroll. The thumbnail looks legitimate, and the title is just cryptic enough to pique anyone's interest.

This is a classic example of using curiosity as bait. According to psychologists, curiosity is a powerful motivator because our brains are wired to seek out new information. The surprise of a Rickroll interrupts that information-seeking process, resulting in laughter as the brain tries to reconcile the mismatch between expectation and reality. It's a playful way to remind people not to believe everything they see online!

5. How to Annoy Friends (Innocently)

Ever wanted to harmlessly annoy your friends without crossing any lines? This Rickroll is perfect for you. Share a link that promises “The Ultimate Guide on How to Annoy Your Friends (But In a Nice Way).” The curiosity alone is enough to make them click, expecting some mischievous tips. Instead, they'll be greeted with Rick Astley's smiling face and iconic dance moves.

What makes this prank so effective is the innocence behind it. There's no malice—just a playful moment that'll leave your friends shaking their heads and laughing. Plus, it's a great icebreaker if you're looking to lighten the mood in a group chat. According to psychologist Martin Seligman, humor and positive pranks can actually strengthen social bonds, turning small annoyances into shared laughs.

6. Home Gardening Hack Gone Wrong

If you have friends who are really into gardening, this Rickroll is an absolute gem. The setup? “I Tried This Crazy Home Gardening Hack and Look What Happened!” It's irresistible to anyone who spends their weekends tending to their plants. But instead of a revolutionary tip, they'll find Rick Astley serenading them through their screen.

It's all about playing with expectations. Your friends will be bracing themselves for a new gardening trick, maybe even grabbing a notepad—only to realize they've been Rickrolled. This one taps into the idea of “benign violation,” where something that initially feels like a letdown actually ends up being funny because it's harmless. The abrupt shift from gardening advice to Astley's synth beats is what makes it so hilarious.

7. Art Tutorial Turns into Surprise

There's no shortage of art tutorials on the internet, and this Rickroll plays on that perfectly. Send a link labeled, “How to Draw Realistic Eyes in Just 5 Minutes,” and watch as your artsy friends get excited to improve their skills. But instead of a step-by-step guide, they'll be met with Rick Astley belting out his classic hit.

The bait works because it appeals to people's desire to learn and improve. The shift from a helpful tutorial to an 80s pop video is so unexpected that it catches viewers off-guard in the best way. It's a great reminder that not everything on the internet is what it seems, but sometimes, the surprises are worth it.

8. Adorable Puppy Video Bait

This one is almost too cruel because who can resist a video titled “Cutest Puppy Ever Playing Fetch”? The thumbnail alone will melt hearts, and before they know it, your friends will be clicking away, expecting to see an adorable little dog. Instead, they get a dose of Rick Astley, singing his way into their hearts.

Psychologically, this works because it triggers a sense of “awe” that quickly transforms into laughter. According to studies, moments that make us feel awe, even if short-lived, can improve our mood and even increase our willingness to connect with others. So technically, you're spreading joy… just not in the way your friends expected.

9. Types of Rolls TikTok Prank

If your friends are obsessed with TikTok trends, this one's for them. Share a link that looks like it's part of a viral challenge, titled “The 10 Best Types of Rolls You Need to Try on TikTok.” It starts off normally enough, showing a few types of delicious food rolls… then suddenly, Rick Astley appears, singing about never letting you down.

This prank is especially effective because it blends in seamlessly with the type of content people are already consuming on social media. When they're least expecting it, they're hit with a classic Rickroll. It's a lighthearted reminder that not every video is what it seems, especially in the fast-paced world of TikTok.

10. Explosive Science Trick (Just Kidding)

Who doesn't love a good science experiment? Especially those that promise something explosive and exciting. Share a link titled “How to Create a Safe Explosion at Home (For Science!)” and wait for the clicks to roll in. The moment they hit play, they're greeted not with a science demonstration, but with Rick Astley's unforgettable chorus.

This prank capitalizes on the excitement of learning something new, only to pull the rug out from under the viewer. The beauty of it is that the disappointment quickly turns into laughter, especially if the person was genuinely excited to learn a new trick. According to the concept of “positive expectancy violation,” when people's expectations are playfully disrupted, it leads to positive feelings and laughter. That's why this Rickroll never fails to deliver smiles.

12. Blood Analysis TikTok Surprise

For the friends who are into health trends and scientific curiosities, this Rickroll is absolutely perfect. Share a link that promises a deep dive into blood analysis with the title, “Blood Cells Before & After a Major Health Change.” This one is particularly effective on TikTok, where quick science facts and health videos go viral in seconds. But just as the viewer anticipates learning something profound about their body, Rick Astley jumps in to serenade them instead.

Part of what makes this prank so powerful is its ability to tap into the intense curiosity surrounding health and wellness. The idea of seeing something scientifically groundbreaking is tantalizing, which makes the abrupt transition to “Never Gonna Give You Up” even funnier. It's a great example of the “benign violation theory” in action—what starts as a serious video becomes something lighthearted, leaving your friends both confused and delighted.

Ultimately, the blood analysis Rickroll is a masterful blend of curiosity and surprise, perfectly tailored for today's fast-paced, info-hungry audience on TikTok. The sudden switch from educational content to an unexpected music video breaks the tension and invites laughter, reminding us not to take everything so seriously.

Recommended Resources

• Laughter: A Scientific Investigation by Robert R. Provine – Delve into the science of laughter and why humor plays such a crucial role in social interactions.
• The Humor Code: A Global Search for What Makes Things Funny by Peter McGraw & Joel Warner – Explore the psychology behind what makes us laugh, with insights into pranks and comedic timing.
• Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Stuart Brown – A fascinating look at how playfulness, including pranks like Rickrolling, can positively impact our well-being.