Melissa McCarthy trend: Why Tiktokers dance to “I Want Something” from Tangled by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

Aggressive DANCING to “I Want Something” by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals has become a must-watch video for all TikTokers.

The trend's longevity shows how much people love it – especially because it's reminiscent of Hollywood actress Melissa McCarthy.

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What's the trend?

The trend, which began in late 2023, has amassed nearly 40 million posts on TikTok under the caption “Melissa McCarthy I Want Something.”

At the beginning, the participants point their finger in the shape of a weapon, often scaring other people in the room who are not familiar with TikTok trends.

Then, as the song transitions to the lyric “Something I tell myself I need,” the dancer switches from aggressive weapon fingers to subtle, relaxed movements.

Where does Melissa McCarthy get into the trend?

TikTok user Sturniolo posted the video of the Tangled song back in August 2023, but the trend only caught on when another user Han shared her video in December of the same year.

Han's post currently has over 27.8 million views and is one of the most viewed videos under the hashtag #IwantsomethingthatIwant – with hundreds of millions of views.

While watching Han's videos, fans concluded that her dance moves and mannerisms bore a strong resemblance to Hollywood actress and comedian Melissa McCarthy.

This then triggered the so-called Melissa McCarthy trend.

One commenter under Han's video said, “This feels like Melissa McCarthy's BEST post.”

Another said: “I haven't seen a video of Melissa McCarthy doing this but it's very programmed by her so I believe it.”

Why do people do this?

One of the reasons this trend is so popular is because it scares the people in the room.

Many videos show frightened family members wondering what happened to their younger relatives while waving gun fingers in their faces.

Another reason for its popularity is that TikTokers can put their own creative spin on the dance since it doesn't follow a specific routine.

Unlike many other dances on TikTok that seem to be only for professionals, this one is perfect for those who don't have much rhythm.

And the fact that the song used is “I Want Something” by the Nocturnals brings back nostalgia for many TikTokers who grew up with the Disney classic “Tangled,” making it a fun trend to take part in.

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