Fans of The Legend of Korra will instantly recognize the phrase Zhu Li, do the thing!-a line that became one of the most iconic catchphrases in modern animation. Spoken by the eccentric inventor Varrick, it’s a command directed at his loyal assistant Zhu Li, who is always ready to turn wild ideas into action. Over time, this quote has evolved beyond the show itself, becoming a humorous expression of determination, teamwork, and getting things done. Whether used in memes or real-life situations, Zhu Li, do the thing has taken on a life of its own as a symbol of motivation and efficiency wrapped in comedic flair.
The Origins of Zhu Li, Do the Thing
The phrase originates from Nickelodeon’s animated series The Legend of Korra, a sequel to Avatar The Last Airbender. Varrick, an industrialist and inventor known for his unpredictable genius, often works alongside his assistant Zhu Li Moon. Whenever he’s ready to initiate one of his outrageous inventions or plans, he shouts, Zhu Li, do the thing!
This command quickly became a recurring gag throughout the show. Each time, Zhu Li would wordlessly and efficiently execute his request, whether it involved activating a giant robot, launching a ship, or starting a film projector. The humor comes from Varrick’s dramatic flair paired with Zhu Li’s calm, capable demeanor. The line perfectly captures their dynamic a brilliant but scatterbrained boss and his unflappable assistant who truly makes everything happen.
Who Are Varrick and Zhu Li?
Understanding the meaning of Zhu Li, do the thing requires a look at the characters themselves. Varrick is a wealthy inventor and entrepreneur who thrives on innovation, showmanship, and questionable business ethics. He embodies creativity in its raw, chaotic form-always brimming with ideas but rarely grounded in practicality.
Zhu Li, on the other hand, is the stabilizing force behind his brilliance. Calm, composed, and incredibly skilled, she ensures Varrick’s wild plans actually work. Though she begins as a quiet background character, her role grows throughout the series, eventually revealing her intelligence, courage, and independence.
Their relationship evolves over time from a simple boss-assistant dynamic into one of mutual respect and partnership. Zhu Li eventually gains recognition for her own abilities, even challenging Varrick when necessary. By the end of the series, the phrase Zhu Li, do the thing becomes a symbol of trust and teamwork rather than mere command.
Why the Phrase Became So Popular
There are several reasons why Zhu Li, do the thing became so memorable among fans and internet culture in general. First, it’s incredibly quotable. The rhythm and simplicity of the line make it perfect for repetition and adaptation. It’s easy to insert into any context that involves delegation or action, turning ordinary tasks into dramatic moments.
Second, it encapsulates a universal dynamic familiar to many people-the visionary and the executor. Every workplace, project, or creative endeavor has its Varrick and Zhu Li one person dreaming big, the other making it all happen. The phrase humorously captures that partnership, making it relatable far beyond the world of animation.
Finally, the phrase’s versatility has made it thrive in meme culture. Online users use it in various ways, from joking about procrastination (Zhu Li, do the thing! when they finally decide to start a task) to praising someone’s reliability. It has become shorthand for moments when someone steps up and gets things done efficiently.
Do the Thing as a Meme and Cultural Reference
As the internet embraced The Legend of Korra, the line quickly turned into a meme. Screenshots, GIFs, and remixes of Varrick shouting the phrase began appearing across social media platforms. It became a humorous rallying cry for anyone facing a challenge or trying to motivate a friend to take action.
Beyond its comedic use, the meme also carries a sense of admiration for capable people-the Zhu Lis of the world who quietly make things happen. In offices, classrooms, and creative teams, the phrase is sometimes used playfully to acknowledge the dependable person who brings ideas to life. It’s a fun way of saying, You’re the one who makes it all work.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Humor
Though the phrase is humorous on the surface, it also carries deeper themes about teamwork and recognition. In the show, Zhu Li initially appears to exist only in Varrick’s shadow. She follows his commands without complaint, embodying efficiency and loyalty. However, as the story unfolds, she asserts her independence and reveals her full potential.
This development gives new meaning to the line Zhu Li, do the thing. It’s not just a command-it’s an acknowledgment of trust. Varrick’s faith in her abilities is so complete that he doesn’t need to explain the task; Zhu Li already knows what to do. Their collaboration demonstrates that even the most brilliant minds rely on others to succeed, and that recognition of teamwork is vital to true achievement.
Zhu Li’s Transformation and Independence
One of the most satisfying arcs in The Legend of Korra is Zhu Li’s evolution from a background character to a leader in her own right. During the events of the later seasons, she grows tired of being underestimated and briefly separates from Varrick to serve the Earth Empire. However, her intelligence and moral compass soon lead her to oppose its corruption.
When Zhu Li eventually reunites with Varrick, it is as an equal. Her strength and independence redefine their relationship, transforming do the thing from a symbol of command into one of collaboration. By the finale, she becomes a respected inventor and even marries Varrick-turning their comedic partnership into a genuine emotional bond. This progression adds depth to the once-simple catchphrase, giving it emotional weight and narrative significance.
Using Zhu Li, Do the Thing in Everyday Life
Outside the series, fans have adopted the phrase as part of their daily vocabulary. It’s often used jokingly when delegating a task or motivating oneself to act. For example, when someone finally starts cleaning their room or finishes a long-delayed project, they might say, Zhu Li, do the thing! as a fun expression of triumph.
In group settings, it can be a lighthearted way to show appreciation for someone dependable. In offices or creative teams, a playful Zhu Li, do the thing! can serve as both motivation and recognition for the person who handles complex tasks with quiet competence.
Its humor lies in exaggeration-turning small, mundane activities into epic moments of action. This blend of drama and practicality mirrors the show’s tone, which often balanced intense storytelling with comedic moments.
Legacy in Pop Culture
Even years after The Legend of Korra ended, Zhu Li, do the thing remains a popular reference among fans. It represents not only one of the show’s funniest recurring jokes but also the deeper themes of partnership and respect. The phrase has been quoted in fan art, cosplay, merchandise, and countless online posts celebrating both Varrick’s charisma and Zhu Li’s brilliance.
More broadly, it symbolizes the relationship between vision and execution-between ideas and the people who make them real. In that sense, it’s more than just a meme; it’s a tribute to collaboration and capability, wrapped in humor and affection.
Zhu Li, do the thing may have started as a punchline, but it has grown into a cultural touchstone for fans of animation and teamwork alike. It embodies the humor, heart, and humanity that made The Legend of Korra such a beloved series. Beyond the laughter, it reminds us that every grand idea needs someone reliable to make it happen-and that behind every Varrick, there’s a Zhu Li ready to do the thing. Whether used as a joke, a compliment, or a motivational mantra, the phrase continues to inspire creativity, cooperation, and action in its own quirky way.