Epic Games has temporarily or permanently removed the “Peaceful Hips” emote in Fortnite, an item linked to superstar John Cena`s character, Peacemaker, following concerns about its potential connection to Nazi symbolism.
The “Peaceful Hips” emote, a collaboration between Epic Games and James Gunn`s DC series Peacemaker, features a character rotating their hips and forming alternating `L` shapes with their arms. This distinctive, awkward dance is famously performed by John Cena`s character in the second season`s opening. Initially perceived as a comedic element contrasting with Peacemaker`s often violent nature, the emote`s meaning dramatically shifted after a recent episode of the show.
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In the September 25 episode, titled “Ignorance Is Chris,” Peacemaker uncovers that his beloved alternate dimension is, in fact, a Nazi-controlled America. This disturbing reality depicts an Anglo-centric state with only white inhabitants and American flags replaced by swastikas. This revelation has led many to reinterpret Peacemaker`s signature dance from the Season 2 opening, with the alternating `L` shapes now seen by some as symbolic representations of the swastika.
Following fan observations and discussions on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Epic Games promptly removed the emote from Fortnite. The company stated it is investigating its partner`s “creative intentions” behind the emote, implying its removal could be permanent.
“We`re disabling the Peaceful Hips Emote in Fortnite as we inquire into our partner`s creative intentions in this collab emote,” Epic Games announced on X on September 28. “Assuming it`s not coming back, we`ll issue refunds in the next few days. Sorry folks.”
James Gunn, the showrunner for Peacemaker, has not yet publicly addressed the controversy. While he promoted the Fortnite collaboration on X on September 13, his frequent social media activity suggests there`s a possibility he might comment on Epic Games` decision soon.