The face that launched oh-so-many memes and finally a change in Sonic's appearance to Sonic the Hedgehog the movies from something that Paramount Pictures wants to forget at an important milestone in franchise history. And it's all thanks to fans of the beloved Sega video game legacy who know that Ugly Sonic not their Sonic.

During an interview with the Hollywood Reporter at the premiere for Sonic the Hedgehog 3the voice of Sonic in the film, Ben Schwartz, talks about how Ugly Sonic is something he now embraces: "Maybe sometimes you need a little push to really look in the mirror and hear the fans, to know if you want. adjust. And we did."

It seems that an internet audience made up of Sonic fans and casual moviegoers screamed in horror at the teeth, the eyes, and the utterly terrifying appearance of the movie's failed abominable upgrade of the classic look of Sonic. Fortunately the studio and creative team quickly worked to transform the icon into its true form. "How often do you think of a movie that really listens to the fans and the studio needs money and time to remake it because they think the movie is better? I think it's rarely happened before, if at all. ,” Schwartz said.

But Ugly Sonic never died.

Memes persist and audiences are easily shaken by the fear of social discourse thanks to Ugly Sonic PTSD when it comes to making beloved characters live-action. One Piece Fans are holding their breath that Netflix isn't pulling an Ugly Sonic in the live-action Tony Tony Chopper for example for a second season. And both How to Train Your Dragonsaid Toothless and Lilo & Stitch's Stitch has retained their original charm in recent teasers for their upcoming live-action features. It's actually thanks to Ugly Sonic's cautionary tale, because hey: if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Ugly Sonic will continue to be featured as a supporting character in Disney's 2022 live-action hybrid film Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers and he was recently spotted in a Christmas sweater officially released by Paramount Pictures in a giveaway. At the premiere, Sonic 3 Director Jeff Fowler also gave Ugly Sonic his due: "From the ashes of Ugly Sonic this beautiful trilogy of films, this phoenix, had to rise. It was a necessary sacrifice but yes, thank you Ugly Sonic for memories.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 opens in theaters this Friday.

Want more io9 news? Check when to expect the latest wonders, Star Warsand Star Trek releases, what's next for DC Universe in film and TVand everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.