The man known variously as Jack Karlson, the real name possibly Cecil George Edwards, has a life that could quite easily be branded as adventurous. But his age could only be confirmed as 82 in the days following his death, given that the circumstances of when he was born remain unknown. Karlson passed in 2007 from prostate cancer, but not before creating a body of work that continues to enchant and entertain many.
In a life of many highs and lows, one particularly low moment was in October 1991 when having just left the China Sea Restaurant, he had been apprehended by police on behalf of Swedish authorities. The event is a sensation of its own, which has only been further enshrined into pop culture lore by the remarkably humorously quotable responses from Karlson afterwards. Along with his playful taunt, “What’s the charge? Well, C’mon,” and that famous quote of his: “Gentleman, this is democracy manifest. Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?” went massively viral, leading to endless memes and web gags.
The now-widespread tale of Karlson’s arrest – fame seized at last from such undistinguished circumstances and lodged in internet lore forever — is certainly prosaic enough, making most iconic that “succulent Chinese meal” phrase. The video of his capture has endeared him to netizens and meme lovers with this witty comeback to the police.
Early 2025 will also see a new documentary, The M, a Who Eats A Succulent Chinese Meal, by Heath Davis, that explores the life of Karlson and his weird intersection with modern pop culture. View this post on Instagram. Working with @kimmylesholland has been both rewarding and fascinating because of how funny she is and her uncanny ability to find joy in every single situation, no matter what!
While Karlson’s public life was one of escapes, his private life included accolades from family and friends. In tribute, a good old-fashioned Chinese meal and an icy cold beer were had in memory of the laughter he brought to his life, so at least we could smile for him.
In June 2024, there was a heartwarming reunion as Karlson met again with Detective Stoll Watt, the arresting officer from his infamous charge in 1991. It was a poignant closing of the loop for his story as we sat around tables at China Sea Restaurant, reflecting on 1014 in all its humour and humanity.
As he looked back on his life, Karlson termed it “adventurous” and remembered wistfully the times when he had broken out of jail. Whether you’ve known him as a kid or received his updates through this internet and media for the first time ever (me), he’s simply an inspiration to find light in life even when things are worst.
The tale of Jack Karlson is the story of human nature and overcoming with humour. The viral memes, the soon-to-be-released documentary Memes to an End and all of those fond memories from people who had the pleasure (or displeasure) of knowing or meeting Zach will ensure his legacy thrives in its own small way.
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Who was Jack Karlson?
Jack Karlson, possibly born Cecil George Edwards, was an individual known for his humorous and defiant behavior during a 1991 arrest outside the China Sea Restaurant in Brisbane.
What was the famous quote associated with him?
His famous quotes are “Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest” and “What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?”
