What about Nanalan Island?
Nanalan' is a Canadian children's television puppet show created by Jamie Shannon and Jason Hopley that aired from 1999 to 2004.
The central character of Nanalan' is a 3-year-old girl named Mona. Mona explores her world, primarily consisting of her Nana's backyard (Nana's land ==> nanalan'), and engages in some very low-stakes adventures.
The show is known for its simple yet engaging storytelling style, which often involves Mona recounting her experiences and adventures in a childlike manner. From discovering hidden treasures to encountering everyday joys and challenges, each episode is a delightful journey filled with imagination and wonder.
Nanalan' has garnered a dedicated following among preschoolers and their parents due to its gentle pace, whimsy, and emphasis on imaginative play. This large fanbase nostalgically remembers the show from their own childhoods, revisiting old episodes and sharing their love for the show on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Nevertheless, in a surprising turn of events, in November 2023, the series song "Who's that great girl? Can she be cuter?" went viral on TikTok. The show has become particularly popular among adults on social media, especially women, who find themselves relating to Mona, leading to remixes, memes, and internet culture references.
In particular, a significant portion of Mona's internet memes combines some young women who are identified as Mona, with her boyfriend or husband depicted as her Nana, who patiently cares for her even when she has eaten too much chocolate cake or has stinky feet.
Some consider this a form of infantilization for women, but I would respond that perhaps it is, but strangely, it's not a bad thing. It's more like reflecting on one's inner child.