Comedian Chizi's Radical Act: Just Being Funny

Chinese comedian Chizi, known for his sharp wit, is currently touring Asia, intentionally steering away from the "rebel comedian" persona that previously led to government trouble. Having faced repercussions after a North American tour in 2023, including internet bans, Chizi aims for artistic integrity by focusing on personal narratives and avoiding overtly political material.

Chizi, whose real name is Wang Yuechi, grew up in Beijing and was drawn to standup comedy after watching American comics online. He began performing in China's burgeoning comedy scene, which initially saw little interference. However, as the government tightened controls, standup comedy became a popular, albeit restricted, outlet for expression.

The comedian gained significant attention on the show "Roast" in 2017. Despite his success, increased censorship led him to create a "Cannot Say" folder of jokes. He previously defied censorship through acts like mailing copies of the Constitution and using absurd hats to mock regulations.

In self-imposed exile since late 2024 after a ban following his North America tour, Chizi finds himself performing internationally. His recent tour, including sold-out shows in Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, features more personal stories. While he subtly referenced Chinese leader Xi Jinping by mentioning his domestic relationship, he deliberately chose a less confrontational approach, emphasizing that being a good comedian is harder than being a rebel.