>>40212718Literally everyone thought it was going to be a clown, or at least something related to the circus. Performing sea lions are an extremely common trope with circuses whether you've been exposed to it or not. It has the round nose and neck ruffle wear associated with clowns, as well as the ball (bubble) balancing act associated with circus performing sea lions.
Sure, the "performer" theme of Popplio's theme is still there (Clown -> Pop Diva -> Opera singer), but that doesn't mean it's a good progression.
Circus Clown -> Circus Ringmaster would've been a lot more fun.
