The Pink Panther first appeared in the opening credits of the 1963 film The Pink Panther, with Henry Mancini composing its famous theme. The silent, elegant feline soon starred in his own animated shorts and television series, and the theme became shorthand for stealth and sly comedy around the world. In German-speaking countries the character is known as Paulchen Panther, which is why the name travels with the melody in memes and edits. Its smooth jazz feel still works today because the joke is understood instantly, even without words.