UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s viral ‘6-7’ dance at school, apologises later: TikTok meme gone too far; Watch viral video

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently found himself in an unexpected viral moment for performing the ‘6-7’ dance meme with primary school pupils at Welland Academy in Peterborough.

During a visit to promote the government's free school meals expansion, Starmer joined in when a pupil mentioned they were on pages 6 and 7 of their book, mimicking the juggling hand gesture that accompanies the viral meme.

The classroom erupted in laughter as the children joined him in the dance, but Starmer was soon told the dance was banned at the school due to its disruptive potential. He apologized to the headteacher, Jo Anderson, saying, "I didn't start it, Miss," while sharing a light-hearted video of the moment on Instagram with the caption, "I think I just got myself put in detention...".

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The ‘6-7’ phrase and dance originated from the song ‘Doot Doot (67)’ by American rapper Skrilla, which became a viral sensation on TikTok and social media for its catchy hook referencing basketball heights, specifically that of NBA player LaMelo Ball.

The phrase gained particular traction among Generation Alpha and became so widespread in UK classrooms that many schools banned the phrase and associated gestures for causing distractions.

According to Dictionary.com, where it was named Word of the Year 2025, the phrase may mean "so-so" or "maybe this, maybe that," though its actual meaning remains ambiguous. A viral video of teenager Maverick Trevillian shouting the phrase at a basketball game while performing the gangling hand gesture has over 7.8 million views on YouTube, illustrating the meme's far-reaching internet culture influence.

The meme's disruptive nature in classrooms is well documented; teachers report difficulties in managing students compelled to repeat the phrase or perform the dance, which has led to formal bans in some schools.

Starmer's unintended endorsement sparked widespread social media reaction, with hashtags like #KeirSixSeven trending and jokingly branding him a “TikTok dad.” Parents and educators have expressed mixed feelings, ranging from amusement and praise for his relatability to concern about school discipline and digital literacy.

The incident also spotlights Starmer’s broader policy agenda: the visit was primarily to promote an extension of free school meals to an additional 500,000 pupils, with an investment of £1 billion aimed at lifting 100,000 children out of poverty and saving families around £500 a year per child.

The viral “6-7” meme episode reveals the complex intersection of internet culture and politics, highlighting how even serious political figures are not immune to the rapid spread and influence of social media trends in contemporary society.