Chinese spirituality just adopted a new icon: American “momager” Kris Jenner.
Jenner, best known for launching the mega-successful careers of her daughters Kourtney, Kim, and Khloé Kardashian, is suddenly the go-to profile pic for Gen Zers on Chinese social media, including apps like RedNote, Weibo, and Douyin.
The reverence for Jenner doesn’t stop there. Her photo is also being used for the wallpaper image on computers, tablets, smartwatches, and more—as part of Chinese Gen Z’s manifestation for good luck.
How did Jenner, of all people, become a Chinese symbol of good fortune? Chinese influencer Marcelo Wang broke down the trend in his own viral TikTok. He explained that Jenner has long been a popular celebrity in the country, even getting the nickname Tian Hou, or “the Empress Dowager.” Now, Wang says, many Chinese Gen Zers see Jenner as a symbol of “good luck, career success, wealth, and confidence all coming your way.”
“Kris Jenner is one of the hardest-working businesswomen in the U.S., and Chinese people really respect hard work,” he said. “So cosplaying Kris Jenner is like a Gen Z funny way to manifest success.”
Though one particular headshot of Jenner is dominating Chinese social media, some users are also putting their own spin on the image and editing it to reflect their own careers. It’s not unlike a Barbie doll’s ever-changing professions. Scrolling on RedNote, you’ll see Dr. Kris, Chef Kris, Lawyer Kris, and more.
Wang also translated one social media user’s story of Kris-based manifestation in action. “I was literally about to have a mental breakdown last night,” the user wrote. “Then I switched my profile picture to Kris Jenner, and suddenly I feel like I’m slaying. My confidence is through the roof. I feel like I can judge everyone right now.”
