Ask Shagg
Ask Shagg is an internet meme and catchphrase originating from the online multiplayer role-playing game, Second Life. It is primarily associated with a virtual avatar resembling Shaggy Rogers, the character from the Scooby-Doo franchise, and the act of soliciting his advice or opinions.
The meme's popularity stems from the absurdity of seeking guidance from a virtual representation of a cartoon character, often on serious or complex matters. The phrase "Ask Shagg" implies a humorous disregard for expertise and a willingness to accept unconventional or nonsensical counsel.
The phenomenon gained traction through screenshots and videos of interactions with "Shagg" avatars in Second Life, which were then shared across various online platforms, including forums, social media, and video-sharing sites. The spread of these images and videos contributed to the phrase's wider adoption as a general internet meme.
The phrase "Ask Shagg" is often used ironically. Someone might say "Just Ask Shagg, he'll know what to do" to mock someone who is giving obviously bad advice or to express skepticism about the possibility of finding a reasonable solution to a problem. The meme plays on the inherent silliness of the source material and the unexpectedness of encountering it in a virtual context.
The enduring appeal of "Ask Shagg" lies in its simplicity and its ability to be adapted to a wide range of situations. It serves as a shorthand for ironic advice-seeking and a commentary on the perceived unreliability of information found online.