IShowSpeed in China: Controversy or Connection?

By Sunshine Li ‘26

Darren Watkins Jr., known by his fans as IShowSpeed, is a popular American YouTuber and online streamer who has amassed over 100 million followers across social media platforms. Speed’s launch to fame began in 2021 when he started focusing his content on soccer, and particularly his love for Cristiano Ronaldo. Some laude his content and others not so much, but his recent endeavors in China have sparked even more conversation surrounding live-streaming and its socio-cultural implications.

Since announcing his China tour two weeks ago, Speed has learned kung fu, enjoyed spicy hotpot in Chongqing, challenged locals to push-up battles, strolled with the elderly, painted his face as a panda in Chengdu, and even completed a backflip on the Great Wall of China. The 20-year-old’s interactions with popular singer Jackson Wang and internet meme star “Super Idol” have the Chinese youth hooked, and even the Chinese embassy is giving him the nod of approval. Speed has been nicknamed “Hyperthyroid Bro” by Chinese netizens for his unbound energy and enthusiasm, but his influence reaches far beyond just lighthearted entertainment.

Whether intentional or not, Speed is becoming a political influence, too. An article from ChinaNews praises how “Darren successfully bypassed geopolitical narratives and presented an unfiltered, authentic China to his global audience through vivid videos.” Upon reading this statement, I thought it was too good to be true. Could a young internet personality really melt away years of hostility between the East and the West? Was Speed’s portrayal of China actually “authentic,” or was his fame and status as a rich streamer bringing only the best parts to light? I sought to answer these questions and more with the help of some fellow students. Let’s hear what Isla Cauchi ’28, Ellie Mallet ’28, and Jasmine Fu ‘27 think about Speed and his recent China endeavors.

Isla admitted, “I don't really know much about IShowSpeed, honestly,” while Ellie confessed, “I don’t know who he is.” Jasmine added, “I didn't really know him before he went to China.”

However, that changed after IShowSpeed’s trip went viral. “I saw him with Super Idol,” Jasmine said, referring to a meme-turned-viral song from the COVID era. “Oh my gosh, I know Super Idol!” Isla chimed in.

IShowSpeed’s collaboration with the singer of “Super Idol” caught many by surprise. “I didn’t expect it,” Jasmine admitted, “but it was fun. I liked seeing them interact.”

So what makes IShowSpeed so appealing to audiences in China, a country known for its more conservative culture?

Jasmine believes it comes down to personality. “His energy is really contagious. He just brings a good vibe. Sometimes it’s a little too much, but in that particular livestream I watched, it was fun.”

Isla offered a simpler explanation: “He’s popular! You know, he’s funny.” Then she paused and asked, “Isn’t he British?” to which the group collectively burst into laughter and confusion. “Maybe not,” Isla said. “I might’ve made that up.”
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Regardless of his nationality, IShowSpeed seems to resonate across borders. His ability to connect with young people around the world demonstrates how humor, charisma, and internet culture can bridge East and West. As Jasmine put it, “It’s just the vibe.”