Def Leppard Jumps on '90s Viral Trend, With an '80s Twist

The iconic rock band puts their own spin on the popular 'What Were You Like in the '90s?' challenge.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:30am

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Def Leppard has joined the viral 'what were you like in the '90s' trend, but with a twist. Instead of the '90s, the band is throwing it back to the '80s, posting a video that starts with current clips of the band members and the question 'What were you guys like in the 80s?' The newer videos are followed by several throwback photos of the band in the '80s, with the clip soundtracked to their hit song 'Photograph' from 1983.

Why it matters

Def Leppard's participation in the viral trend showcases the band's enduring popularity and ability to engage with their fanbase through social media. The '80s-focused twist on the challenge also highlights the iconic decade that helped propel the band to stardom.

The details

The viral trend has celebrities and social media users posting a current video of themselves, followed by photos and video of them in the '90s, often set to the Goo Goo Dolls' hit 'Iris.' However, Def Leppard decided to put their own spin on the challenge, focusing on the '80s instead of the '90s. The band's video features current clips of members Joe Elliott, Phil Collen, Rick Savage, and Rick Allen, followed by throwback photos of the group in the '80s, with the hit song 'Photograph' playing in the background.

  • Def Leppard recently wrapped a Las Vegas residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.
  • The band is set to launch a tour of India on Wednesday, with a European tour to follow.

The players

Def Leppard

An iconic British rock band known for hits like 'Photograph' and 'Pour Some Sugar on Me.'

Joe Elliott

The lead singer of Def Leppard.

Phil Collen

The lead guitarist of Def Leppard.

Rick Savage

The bassist of Def Leppard.

Rick Allen

The drummer of Def Leppard.

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What they’re saying

“All I've got is a photograph #defleppard #80s.”

— Def Leppard

What’s next

Def Leppard is set to launch a tour of India on Wednesday, with a European tour to follow.

The takeaway

Def Leppard's participation in the viral '90s trend, with their own '80s twist, showcases the band's ability to stay relevant and engage with their fans through social media. The band's enduring popularity and iconic status in the music industry are further highlighted by their unique take on the challenge.