A Chinese man whose uncanny imitation of Donald Trump has taken social media by storm is earning laughs and earning followers on both sides of the Pacific. Ryan Chen, a 42-year-old from Chongqing in southwest China, has become a viral sensation with his Trump-style videos that mix humor, cultural insights and over-the-top gestures.
Chen’s impersonations have gone viral because he nails many elements of the former president’s persona, from his characteristic hand movements to his distinctive voice. “Trump is an endless well that never runs dry, because he draws more online traffic than anyone else on the planet,” Chen told AFP, explaining the appeal of his act on platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Chinese video networks.
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Unlike many satirists, Chen does not use his performances to make sharp political commentary. He purposely steers clear of serious political debate — a wise choice, since doing satire in China can cross lines that trigger account suspensions. Instead, his videos focus on fun and cultural exchange.
In his clips, Chen often dresses in Trump-style outfits and peppers his speech with familiar buzzwords like “tremendous” and “amazing.” He also uses the setup to highlight his city’s culture. During some videos, he showcases Chongqing’s spicy food, jokes with foreigners and even dances to Village People’s “YMCA” — a song closely associated with Trump’s rallies.
“I’m not into politics, but I think he is a very good entertainer,” Chen said, showing that his act is meant to amuse rather than provoke. And while he leans into the Trump persona, his goal is clear. “If I imitate him, it’s not to make fun of him. It’s to get attention,” he said, adding, “With that attention, I can boost my career, as well as promote China and my hometown.”
The entertainer’s reach has exploded since 2025, helped by a livestream appearance on a popular American channel and the renewed global spotlight on Trump after his return to the White House. Today, Chen boasts millions of followers across Instagram, TikTok and Chinese platforms, and is widely recognized on the streets of Chongqing.
Despite his fame, Chen maintains he is just having fun. He has even secured advertising work and public appearances through brand collaborations. And though many fans dream of a meeting between Chen and Trump, the impersonator himself shrugs at the idea, saying he has no political ambitions and sees himself simply as a comedian connecting cultures through laughter.
