Move aside Kris Jenner, there’s a new online icon in town, and he’s bringing a serious dose of retro charm and wisdom to Gen Z’s feeds: Afanti. This beloved character from the 1980s Chinese animated series, The Story of Afanti, produced by Shanghai Animation Film Studio, is unexpectedly captivating a new generation with his timeless appeal.
Afanti, known as Nasreddin in other cultures, is a legendary folk hero originating from Central Asia and the Middle East, celebrated for his sharp wit, humor, and unwavering commitment to justice. He’s often depicted riding a small donkey, outsmarting greedy officials and tyrants, and helping the common people with his clever parables and tricks. The stop-motion animation series beautifully brought these tales to life, making Afanti a household name across China.
Today, Afanti’s iconic image and profound, often satirical, wisdom are finding new relevance online. But more than that, China’s Gen Z are latching on to the overly positive attitude and antics of Afanti, with the saying “Why is Afanti always so happy?” going viral. Short clips and memes featuring his sagely advice or sly comebacks are also circulating widely, particularly among Chinese youth who appreciate his anti-establishment spirit and intellectual prowess.
In an era craving authenticity and critical thought, Afanti’s enduring legacy as a symbol of intelligence, kindness, and subtle rebellion makes him the perfect, albeit unexpected, internet sensation for a globally-minded Gen Z. Catch a string of clips of ya boy, Afanti, in the video below!
Cover image via IMDB.
