Rei Ayanami is a central character in Neon Genesis Evangelion, the television anime that first aired in Japan in 1995 and became one of the most influential anime series of its era. Rei is known for her quiet voice, pale appearance and reserved manner, which is why informal versions of her introduction spread online as a joke. This clip builds on that recognition, presenting her name with casual slang fans would not expect from her. It remains used in small meme circles because the character stays widely recognised and the greeting is instantly quotable.