Overview
#BingChilling became a viral meme after John Cena’s cringe-worthy apology video in Mandarin for calling Taiwan a “country” during a Fast & Furious 9 interview, saying he “loves and respects China.”
Cultural Impact
The incident became a symbol of Hollywood’s deference to the Chinese market and government censorship. “Bing chilling” (冰淇淋, ice cream) became a meme mocking Cena’s pandering.
Peak Moments
- May 2021: Cena apologizes in Mandarin on Weibo
- Taiwan Comment: Called Taiwan a “country” promoting F9
- Meme Explosion: “Bing chilling” ice cream reference went viral
- Western Backlash: U.S. lawmakers criticized Cena’s kowtowing
- China Box Office: F9 earned $136M in China opening weekend
The Meme
“Bing chilling” references Cena eating ice cream in Chinese social media videos. His awkward delivery became endlessly memed.
Related Hashtags
- #JohnCena
- #China
- #Taiwan
- #Hollywood
- #Censorship