What is CHILLGUY, the crypto sensation?

A viral MEME token hitting $500 million in one week.

A crypto token based on a viral TikTok meme has gone parabolic, touching a $500 million market cap just days after launching. Savvy meme coin traders are raking in millions from the launch—including one who turned a $1,000 investment into over $1 million in less than a week.

Just a Chill Guy (CHILLGUY) is a Solana meme coin that uses a character created by artist Phillip Banks in 2023 as its mascot. The anthropomorphic character wears a sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers, with his hands tucked in his pockets—just a pretty chill-looking dude.

One of many "Just a chill guy" memes circulating on Twitter. Image: Phillip Banks

The prototype of CHILLGUY, Henry.

Interestingly, CHILLGUY’s prototype is said to have been inspired by Henry, the dog of Phillip Banks’ friend. Fans speculate that the relaxed demeanor and casual style of the character may have been drawn from Henry’s laid-back personality.

This character has gone viral on Gen Z-favored social media platform TikTok, as users couple the character with a caption about men just being “chill guys” despite the hardships in their lives—however big or small. But despite the token’s success, the artist behind the character isn’t happy. On Twitter, Banks wrote, “I don't endorse or consent to my art being used to any crypto related things. Please leave me alone.” He later put his Twitter on private so users could no longer harass him.