The "Always Has Been" meme is a classic bait-and-switch format that never gets old. It starts with a wholesome setup, like two astronauts in space, before one pulls out a gun and reveals the terrifying truth. The punchline is always that the threat was there the whole time, right under our noses.
To use the template, you just need a relatable situation where a dark reality was hiding in plain sight. Pair it with something nostalgic or seemingly innocent, then hit the viewer with the "always has been" reveal. It works great for jokes about work, relationships, or any conspiracy theory you want to have fun with.
