Kentuckyde

Kentuckyde is a fictional character and setting that originated from a series of internet memes and fan creations, primarily associated with the *Overwatch* video game franchise. The concept emerged from a humorous and exaggerated portrayal of Kentucky, a U.S. state, as a distinct, almost mythical region with its own culture, slang, and identity. The term "Kentuckyde" blends "Kentucky" with "Kentucky Fried Chicken" (KFC), reflecting the state's strong association with the fast-food chain, which was founded in Louisville.

The character Kentuckyde is often depicted as a larger-than-life, folksy figure embodying stereotypes of Southern hospitality, bluegrass music, and a laid-back attitude. Memes and fan art frequently portray Kentuckyde as a rugged, mustachioed man in a flannel shirt, often holding a KFC bucket or a banjo. The character has been used humorously to represent exaggerated traits like kindness, stubbornness, and a love for fried food, whiskey, and country traditions.

While Kentuckyde is not an official part of *Overwatch* or its lore, it has gained popularity through fan communities, particularly on platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and TikTok. The character has been referenced in various memes, including those mocking political or cultural stereotypes, and has even inspired cosplay and fan-made content. The concept also highlights how internet culture can amplify and reinterpret regional identities in playful ways.

Kentuckyde serves as an example of how internet humor can create and expand fictional personas, often blending real-world elements with exaggerated or satirical twists. Despite its fictional nature, the character has fostered a sense of community among fans who engage with the meme, celebrating Kentucky’s culture in a lighthearted manner.