The Mandela effect is a phenomenon where many people collectively misremember events, historical facts and pop culture, like so many fans confusing that iconic Star Wars line.
New examples of the Mandela effect, from the spelling of Berenstain Bears to the existence of a ’90s movie called Shazaam, commonly sweep through social media. Some people are so surprised by their bad memories that they start conspiracy theories like an alternate timeline to explain it.
Jif, Not “Jiffy”
People swear there was a “Jiffy” peanut butter back in the day, but we speculate they’re combining Jif with its competitor, Skippy.
Looney Tunes, Not Toons
It makes almost zero sense, but yes, the cartoon was spelled as “Tunes.”
The Berenstein Bears Didn’t Exist
The lovable cartoon bear family actually spelled their last name with an “a”: The Berenstain Bears.
Curious George’s Tail
… was never there. Are you freaking out? Okay, moving on.
Febreze
You might use the stuff every day, but be honest: You thought it was “Febreeze,” didn’t you?
Oscar Mayer
One of the most confounding of all: There’s an “A” in “Mayer”?! Honest to goodness, we thought it was Meyer.
Skechers
Less sketchy than most, people have been befuddled to see that there’s no “T” in Skechers.
Froot Loops
Kellogg had been spelling fruit like that for years, and we only noticed it now … wowza.
King Henry VIII’s … Turkey Leg?
For some reason, people distinctly remember this portrait showing the king of England wielding a turkey leg. To be clear, he was not.
