A viral social media trend in China involving a Black baby stress toy known online as the “Natasha doll” has sparked widespread debate across social media platforms, raising questions about race and inhumane behaviour.
The trend centers on a squishy toy designed to resemble a Black baby, which has been widely shared on Chinese social media platforms, including Douyin and RedNote. In circulating videos, users are seen squeezing, stretching, and manipulating the doll as part of what is being described as stress relief content. The clips have racked up millions of views, with some users participating in what has become a growing online trend.
As the videos spread, the conversation around the doll has intensified. Some social media users have reportedly suggested that a white baby doll would appear “too human,” arguing that it would make people less comfortable engaging with it in the same way. That comparison has fueled further criticism and widened the discussion around how different groups are represented in viral content.
The controversy has also taken on a darker tone online, with discussions about “Natasha death memes” circulating alongside the trend, further amplifying concern among viewers. Critics say the content has crossed a line between humor and something more troubling, especially as it continues to gain traction across multiple platforms.
The doll, which is also being referred to as a stress-relief product, is reportedly among the top-selling squishy toys in China and other parts of Asia this year. It is marketed for use by adults who squeeze or manipulate it as a way to relieve stress.
In many of the circulating clips, users are shown stomping on the toy, hitting it, stretching it, or otherwise treating it in exaggerated ways for entertainment purposes. Some videos have even gone as far as showing the doll being run over or subjected to more extreme scenarios, further fueling online backlash.
The trend has now become a point of debate on social media, with users questioning whether the content reflects harmless viral entertainment or something more deeply rooted in racism.
