Country artist Morgan Wallen is once again stirring up conversation online — albeit not for reasons he would likely find flattering. After a recent stint on Saturday Night Live, Wallen became the target of widespread online ridicule, particularly after he appeared to storm off the stage and subsequently shared an image of a private jet on his Instagram Stories with the caption, “Get me to God’s country.”
The incident rapidly gained traction, with many perceiving the post as a slight directed at SNL, New York City, or perhaps the broader coastal liberal culture. Wallen’s connection with SNL has been tumultuous — his first appearance was called off due to a violation of COVID regulations, and he encountered major backlash after a video surfaced of him using a racial slur. Regardless of the controversies, Wallen’s popularity has surged, especially among conservative fans who regard him as a cultural underdog.
In light of this context, Wallen’s reference to “God’s country” struck some as a discreet allusion to his fondness for more conservative, rural areas of the United States — regions where his support is most robust. However, social media had different interpretations.
Quickly, users began transforming Wallen’s over-the-top exit and caption into a meme, reinterpreting what “God’s country” signifies to them — often with a humorous spin. One user quipped, “me when I leave West Hollywood after a night out,” while others shared images ranging from public transport to gaming setups, all under the same caption: “Get me to God’s country.”
Even companies and public figures joined in on the amusement. Merriam-Webster crafted their own rendition of the meme, followed by others who presented increasingly absurd or tongue-in-cheek takes. The meme, while not explicitly harmful, highlights the irony of a wealthy celebrity lamenting urban life while boarding a private jet — a form of privilege many found fitting for satire.
Although some tweets and posts have since been deleted or are no longer visible, the meme keeps circulating, showcasing the internet’s knack for transforming a fleeting moment into a cultural punchline.
In the end, the viral incident reveals a universal reality: everyone has their own concept of “God’s country.” For some, it’s the serene countryside. For others, it could be a beloved dive bar, a snug apartment, or — in one user’s experience — a Buffalo Wild Wings.