There’s no better method to send an uninvited visitor on their way than with one straightforward phrase: **SCRAM!**
This whimsical expression, with its fascinating background, has found fresh appeal thanks to TikTok creator, comedian, actor, and writer Kel Cripe (who goes by [@reallygoodimpressions](https://www.tiktok.com/@reallygoodimpressions) on TikTok). Cripe’s [popular video](https://www.tiktok.com/@reallygoodimpressions/video/7412752892500675870) from September, where they issue a hilariously gentle yet assertive warning to “all the guys tryin’ to talk to my girl,” has garnered over 9.4 million views. In the footage, Cripe stands in front of a hedge, wearing a mystical wolf T-shirt, raising a fist as if prepared to hypothetically deliver a knuckle sandwich.
“Scram! Leave her alone! She… she doesn’t want to talk to you! Get outta here!” Cripe exclaims, as a piano cover of Pixies’ *Where Is My Mind?* plays in the background, perfectly complementing the amusing “not-so-threatening, soft threat” atmosphere Cripe later described to *Mashable*.
### From TikTok to the Main Stage
Since its arrival, Cripe’s “Scram!” moment has taken on a life of its own. It’s been remixed with CapCut enhancements, shared by none other than SZA, and even made its way to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. During Swift’s rendition of her breakup anthem *We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together*, fan-favorite dancer Kameron Saunders humorously shouted “Scram!” on stage, much to the crowd’s delight.
While TikTok has introduced Cripe to a larger audience, their comedy journey extends far beyond the platform. In 2024, Cripe participated in the [Netflix Is a Joke Fest](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmsdycJdO5I) comedy showcase and appeared on SiriusXM’s [Netflix Is a Joke Radio](https://www.siriusxm.com/channels/netflix-is-a-joke-radio). They’ve also guest-starred on the podcast *[Lovett or Leave It](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUsUleWgnOE)*, taken part in the New York Comedy Festival and SF Sketchfest, and are a member of the comedy trio [Babe Motel](https://www.instagram.com/thebabemotel/). Not to mention, they’re also an illustrator, playwright, and short filmmaker. Talk about a multi-talented individual!
With [sold-out headlining stand-up performances](https://www.instagram.com/kelcripe/p/DA_rCanScw1/) approaching, Cripe recently chatted with *Mashable* about their TikTok journey, the inspiration behind their viral “Scram!” clip, and how a sweet inside joke with their girlfriend transformed everything.
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### The Birth of “Scram!”
**Shannon Connellan (SC): Where did the concept for your viral “Scram!” video originate?**
**Kel Cripe (KC):** Like many couples, my girlfriend and I enjoy using silly voices and phrases to make each other laugh. Whenever I’d show her unkind remarks on my videos, she’d wave her fist at my phone and exclaim, “Scram!” It always lifted my spirits and made me feel appreciated.
One morning, after I had a rough dream, she made me chuckle with her iconic catchphrase. I thought, “Hey, that would be a funny video.” Later that day, after completing errands (it was laundry day—hence the wolf shirt), I asked her to record it. We nailed it in one take because I was too exhausted to overthink it.
The following day, I added a piano cover of *Where Is My Mind?* to match the “not-so-threatening, soft threat” mood and pressed post. I never thought that an inside joke with my girlfriend would turn my life around. I owe my “Scram” legacy to her—she’s truly amazing.
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### From Viral Meme to Cultural Sensation
**SC: What has the reaction been like to your viral clip?**
**KC:** Initially, “Scram!” didn’t reach the audience I anticipated. Its satirical tone made it a prime target for online trolls, and I contemplated deleting it. But then, SZA shared it on her Instagram story during the VMAs, and everything shifted. Thousands of new viewers joined in—thank you, SZA!
Before long, tens of thousands of individuals were crafting their own “Scram!” videos. It was incredible to witness how much joy and laughter people were spreading, just as I had intended. Parents shared with me that their kids loved saying “Scram!” and