Epic Games has disabled the “Peaceful Hips Emote” within its popular video game, Fortnite (via Ovicio). The removal follows fan criticism that the in-game animation, linked to a character based on John Cena’s portrayal of Peacemaker, contained movements suggestive of a swastika.
In a statement released on Twitter, the company addressed the emote’s removal and a plan for player compensation. “We’re disabling the Peaceful Hips Emote in Fortnite as we inquire into our partner’s creative intentions in this collab emote,” the statement reads. “Assuming it’s not coming back, we’ll issue refunds in the next few days. Sorry, folks.”
The controversy stems from the emote’s source material in the second season of the DCU television show Peacemaker. The season’s storyline is set in an alternate reality, identified as ‘Earth-2’ in the show, where the N–i regime was victorious in World War II. An updated opening dance sequence for the season contained the choreography that was later adapted for the Fortnite emote, which some fans have dubbed the ‘N–i Emote.’
The decision has drawn scrutiny, with some questioning the removal while pointing out that Fortnite has previously utilized music by Kanye West, an artist who has publicly made anti-semitic remarks and identified as a ‘N–i’. Epic Games’ relationship with Cena’s primary employer is also notable, as Fortnite serves as a sponsor for WWE.
This issue arises as Cena is currently on a retirement tour, with three months and five dates remaining in his active career. His next scheduled appearance is a match against AJ Styles at the upcoming Crown Jewel: Perth event.
The booking for that particular match has itself drawn critique from WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray, who noted the lack of a clear face-heel dynamic between the two veteran performers. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Ray suggested the contest would be more compelling if one of the wrestlers executed a mid-match turn. He identified Styles as the ideal candidate to assume the heel role during the bout, creating a more tangible obstacle for Cena to overcome.