Channing Tatum has starred in highly acclaimed movies and box office hits, yet one of the things he is most remembered for is a quote from 22 Jump Street that’s become a viral meme, but which the actor says didn’t seem overly memorable when they initially sH๏τ it.
The meme in question is when Tatum’s Jenko, working undercover, is asked his name by the criminals they’re investigating. He says, in a weird voice, “My name is Jeff.” That now iconic comedic moment has popped up again because in Tatum’s new film, Roofman, he plays a character whose name is actually Jeff.
The actor spoke about that coincidence in an interview with ScreenRant‘s Ash Crossan for Roofman‘s release, though he admits he “didn’t even think” of the cross-over initially. He acknowledges that he probably should, because he does hear it quite a bit, though usually in an odd location – airports.
I hear it every single time I go through TSA. Someone in TSA, I’d say over 95% of the time, goes “My name’s Jeff.”
Wach the clip right here:
Tatum adds that “it’s a wild thing what becomes pop culture,” because he said that the line “wasn’t even that funny on the day.” But the line is part of what makes the Jump Street franchise a recent comedy classic.
That’s resulted in many pondering the fate of Jump Street. Tatum and Jonah Hill starred in 22 Jump Street in 2014, and while there’s been rumors about another film, nothing has stuck. Tatum doesn’t think a new entry will ever happen because of the potential budget. However, that does give Tatum chances to star in new projects, like Roofman.
Based on a true story, Roofman stars Tatum as Jeffrey Manchester, who, after going to jail for robbing a string of McDonald’s by breaking in through their roofs at night, escapes and hides out in a Toys “R” Us for months. While in hiding, he adopts a new idenтιтy and begins a relationship with an employee, risking his freedom for a chance at a real connection.
ScreenRant‘s Roofman review says Tatum gives one of his best performances yet in the film. Other critics have similar thoughts, as the film is officially “Certified Fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 85%. Having opened exclusively in movie theaters on October 10, Roofman finished second at the weekend box office with $8 million.
If you want to rewatch either 21 Jump Street or 22 Jump Street though, both films are available to buy or rent via video on-demand platforms.