Chongqing, China (CNN) — Ryan Chen, a business manager in Chongqing, has gained significant popularity for his impression of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Known for his precise mimicry, Chen’s talent first surfaced in January after a friend dared him to perform the impression online. Since then, he has attracted over two million followers across social media platforms such as Instagram and Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok.
Chongqing, with a population of 32 million, has provided Chen a platform to showcase both his talent and local culture. His online content promotes Chongqing as a tourist destination, using a blend of Trump-like enthusiasm while keeping his messages non-political. Chen’s charisma has led to crowds seeking photographs and engaging with his performances, highlighting his unique ability to connect across cultural divides. For example, during a recent lunch, Chen showcased local delicacies with his signature humor.
Despite his rising fame, Chen has a day job at an architecture firm but is considering transitioning to acting full-time. He has expressed a desire to visit the United States, specifically New York City, to experience the culture firsthand.
- Why it matters:
- The rise of influencers like Chen emphasizes the increasing importance of cultural exchange through social media, fostering connections between different nations.
- Chen’s work illustrates how humor can serve as a tool for soft diplomacy and promote tourism.
- The latest:
- Chen is considering a full-time career in acting while gradually reducing his commitments to his architecture job.
Source: https://ktvz.com/news/national-world/cnn-world/2025/11/07/chinas-trump-told-us-how-he-went-viral-and-yes-it-started-as-a-bet/
Source: https://ktvz.com/news/national-world/cnn-world/2025/11/07/chinas-trump-told-us-how-he-went-viral-and-yes-it-started-as-a-bet/