While the weather on America’s East Coast finally warmed up, much of the internet spent the weekend debating comments made by Timothée Chalamet about the way films are promoted compared to ballet and opera productions. The remarks sparked an online discourse cycle that even cost the actor a few Instagram followers.
But if the conversation created noise at home, Chalamet appears to be gaining even more attention abroad.
The actor is currently in China promoting the local premiere of his film Marty Supreme, and the reception has been nothing short of enthusiastic. He has quickly gained traction on Chinese social media platforms like Weibo and Rednote, where he has been documenting his promotional tour across the country.
The behind-the-scenes moments have only amplified his charm. From playing ping-pong with locals and browsing souvenir shops to serving tofu at a street stall, Chalamet has leaned fully into connecting with his Chinese audience. He has even signed fan-made stuffed toys modeled after himself complete with the iconic red jumpsuit designed by Haider Ackermann that fans recreated for the plush figures.
Meanwhile, the film itself is already making history. With $162.3 million in global earnings, Marty Supreme has become the highest-grossing film ever produced by A24.
Despite the film’s impressive box-office success, Chalamet hasn’t slowed down his promotional energy. His latest appearance came at the Beijing premiere, where he stepped onto the red carpet in a custom tuxedo from Gucci. The actor paired the sleek suit with tiny sunglasses and a silk jersey V-neck T-shirt layered underneath, delivering a look that felt both relaxed and fashion-forward.
While the outfit didn’t appear on the runway that introduced Demna’s first collection for the house, its understated yet striking aesthetic echoed the collection’s refined approach.
The premiere itself became a moment of cultural exchange. Fans showered Chalamet with gifts, including a banner proclaiming him the “King of the Silver Screen” and affectionately calling him “Sweat Tea”, the nickname Chinese fans have given the actor.
Nicknames for Western celebrities are something of a tradition among Chinese audiences. For example, Lana Del Rey is known as “Thunder Sister,” while Leonardo DiCaprio is famously called “Little Plum.”
Back in the United States, discussions around Chalamet’s earlier comments continue to circulate online. However, the actor’s words were arguably taken somewhat out of context. He was referring to a more populist approach to film promotion encouraging audiences to experience cinema through excitement and engagement rather than framing moviegoing as a cultural obligation.
And if his promotional tour in China proves anything, it’s that he’s fully committed to meeting audiences wherever they are, whether that means walking red carpets or serving street food.
