Maritza Murray’s Keecia Was the It Girl of 2002, and the Internet Just Remembered Why

A compilation video showcasing Maritza Murray’s portrayal of Keecia in the 2002 comedy The Hot Chick has taken social media by storm. With over a million views on X (formerly Twitter), fans are rediscovering her character’s unforgettable style and personality, reigniting a love for early 2000s fashion.

Keecia’s Viral Revival on Social Media

Maritza Murray’s role as Keecia, the quirky and endearing best friend in The Hot Chick, is experiencing a cultural renaissance. The viral video, a carefully edited montage of her standout moments, has not only delighted fans of the film but also introduced Keecia to a new generation.

Maritza Murray as Keecia in The Hot Chick, 2002 pic.twitter.com/9LDayj83IS

— ‏ًًً (@prettiestluxury) January 20, 2025

Users on social media platforms are celebrating her iconic looks and personality. One user tweeted, “Face card unlimited, body tea, fashion eating—an it girl for real.” Another posted, “She was literally the hottest girl in that movie, and they were lowkey eating her insecurity about her biracial background bc it’s rarely shown during those days.” Others are embracing the aesthetic of early 2000s fashion, with comments like, “2000’s fashion was so iconic. This was the real ‘it girl’ era.”

Even TikTok creators have joined in, sharing videos breaking down Keecia’s outfits and recreating her looks. The collective nostalgia has transformed her into a digital fashion icon, two decades after the film’s release.

Keecia’s Role in The Hot Chick

In The Hot Chick, Keecia is one of Jessica Spencer’s (Rachel McAdams) close-knit group of friends. Portrayed with charm and relatability by Maritza Murray, Keecia stands out for her unique fashion sense and witty one-liners. Her moments of vulnerability, particularly surrounding her identity as a biracial character, resonated with audiences in ways rarely seen in early 2000s teen comedies.

Keecia also brought humor and warmth to the film, balancing the outlandish body-swap premise with grounded moments of friendship and self-discovery. Though her screen time was limited, Murray’s performance made a lasting impression.

The Legacy of The Hot Chick

Released in December 2002, The Hot Chick was a moderate box office success. Directed by Tom Brady and starring Rob Schneider as a teenage girl trapped in the body of a middle-aged man, the film blended slapstick humor with heartfelt lessons about identity and empathy.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the movie earned $54.6 million worldwide against a production budget of $34 million, securing its place as a cult favorite. Fans of the film fondly remember it for its absurd premise, hilarious performances, and standout supporting characters like Keecia.

The film also served as an early showcase for Rachel McAdams, who went on to become a Hollywood A-lister, and remains a nostalgic gem for many millennials.

The Enduring Appeal of Early 2000s Fashion

Keecia’s wardrobe in The Hot Chick epitomized the bold and experimental styles of the early 2000s. Think low-rise jeans, crop tops, and chunky accessories—fashion choices that are making a comeback among Gen Z. Fans on social media are not only celebrating Keecia’s style but also recreating her outfits, solidifying her status as a 2000s fashion icon.

One fan on X even joked, *“Friends, I think the name Maritza is very chic—it’s like Maria but with ‘cunt,’ you know? Mother of Jesus serving fashion *and* attitude.”*

This resurgence of interest in Keecia’s character is also sparking conversations about representation, as fans reflect on how rare it was to see biracial or multicultural characters in mainstream teen movies of the time.

Maritza Murray’s Reaction and Reflection

Maritza Murray, who has largely stayed out of the spotlight since her role in The Hot Chick, has expressed surprise and gratitude for the renewed interest in her performance. In a recent TikTok video, she shared clips from the film and thanked fans for their ongoing support, proving that her portrayal of Keecia has stood the test of time.

Why We’re Still Talking About The Hot Chick

The enduring appeal of The Hot Chick lies in its unique blend of humor, heart, and cultural nostalgia. Keecia, with her wit and style, remains a testament to the power of supporting characters to leave an indelible mark on audiences. As social media continues to celebrate her, it’s clear that Keecia—and by extension, Maritza Murray—will remain a beloved part of 2000s pop culture history.

Whether you’re reliving your teen years or discovering the movie for the first time, Keecia’s viral moment reminds us why The Hot Chick continues to hold a special place in our hearts.