The "Case of the Dancing Baby" refers to a viral video that emerged in 1996, featuring a 3D animated baby dancing to a catchy tune. The animation was created using the software 3D Studio Max and quickly gained popularity on the internet, becoming one of the first viral videos. This video became a cultural phenomenon, often associated with the early days of the internet and the rise of meme culture. It was later featured in various television shows, including Ally McBeal, where it was used to represent the main character's emotional state, further cementing its place in pop culture history.