Millions around the world have become acquainted with Moo Deng, a beloved celebrity known for her dewy skin, playful lifestyle, and memorable face.

Despite being a hippopotamus, she has captured the hearts of many without stirring controversy.

While cute animals going viral is nothing new, the fascination with them in 2024 seems to have reached new heights. Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo from Thailand, gained fame during a time when people sought solace in observing animals amidst the challenges of the world. University of Washington psychology professor emeritus David Barash highlights the therapeutic nature of connecting with animals during difficult times.

Moo Deng's rise to stardom began with photos and videos shared on Khao Kheow Open Zoo's social media accounts. Her endearing qualities and playful antics quickly turned her into a global sensation, with fans eagerly following her journey on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.

Fans of Moo Deng created art, merchandise, and even makeup trends inspired by her. The zoo experienced a surge in visitors, leading to increased safety measures and limited visiting hours. A dedicated livestream was set up for fans to keep up with Moo Deng around the clock.

Media sociologist Jin Lee believes Moo Deng's authenticity and genuine relationship with her caretaker played a significant role in her widespread popularity. People resonate with genuine connections and authenticity, making Moo Deng's journey even more captivating.

Moo Deng's influence expanded beyond the zoo, as she appeared in various media and even had a theme song produced by a prominent music company. Digital-media researcher Tony Sampson explains that emotional content tends to spread virally, offering a break from negative news and evoking positive emotions.

Moo Deng was not the only animal to capture global attention in 2024. A variety of adorable animals like Pesto the penguin and Haggis the pygmy hippo gained online fame as people connected with their human-like traits and emotions. The concept of Kindchenschema, coined by Austrian ethologist Konrad Lorenz, explains humans' tendency to find creatures with cute features endearing and nurturing.

While anthropomorphism can sometimes lead to misinterpretations of animal behavior, Moo Deng's relatability and resemblance to human emotions have endeared her to many. Observing animals like Moo Deng can serve as a reminder of the shared mental states between humans and animals, offering comfort and joy in challenging times.

Meet Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo taking the internet by storm

TODAY