For years, Chizi, the trailblazing Chinese comedian, was a household name in mainland China. But after being barred from performing his provocative material at home, he has found new audiences – and a new sense of purpose – abroad. The 30-year-old stand-up, real name Wang Yuechi, has sold out shows across Asia, from Tokyo to Taipei, Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, since launching an international tour in April. And despite the risks, Chizi's irreverent humour is still very much alive – albeit with a more subtle tone.
His recent performance at the National University of Singapore was a masterclass in clever wordplay and social commentary. During his set, he referred to China's leader Xi Jinping as "Peng Liyuan's husband," a wry remark that sidesteps direct mention while still conveying the complexity of China's relationship with its ageing president. The joke is a testament to Chizi's skill in navigating sensitive subjects without crossing any red lines.
The ban on Chizi performing in mainland China remains shrouded in mystery, but it's thought to stem from his 2023 appearances abroad, where he tackled topics like state censorship and the rights of ethnic minority groups. Those shows, which included a stint as an opening act for Chinese-American comedian Joe Wong in North America, were deemed too sensitive for Chinese audiences.
Despite the risks associated with his current content, Chizi has taken a more measured approach to humour on his international tour. Rather than pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in China, he's focused on sharing his personal story – from being an over-talkative child to discovering comedy as a teenager. For him, these performances are about more than just laughs: they're an opportunity to connect with Chinese speakers around the world and share his experiences.
Chizi's willingness to perform in Taiwan, a territory claimed by Beijing, is a bold statement of artistic intent. "No Chinese comedian has ever performed here," he notes, highlighting the shared language and culture that exists despite significant political tensions. His approach reflects a personal philosophy that values dialogue over dogma – even if it means courting controversy.
From humble beginnings at open mic nights in 2015 to international stardom, Chizi's career has been marked by resilience and creativity. Now, as he looks out at sold-out crowds across Asia, he knows that his art has the power to transcend borders – and challenge the censorial gaze of China's authorities.