Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has become the subject of online mockery after a video showed him appearing to struggle with his first sip of Guinness during a podcast appearance. The tech billionaire later responded to the viral reaction, writing: “That’s just my face.”
The clip was filmed during an episode of Cheeky Pint, a podcast hosted by Stripe co-founder John Collison, where Zuckerberg appeared alongside Meta AI executive Alexandr Wang. The video quickly circulated on social media, with viewers joking about the expression Zuckerberg made while tasting the Irish stout.
Some compared the moment to other viral clips of business executives appearing uncomfortable while eating or drinking products associated with their companies. Others suggested the reaction reinforced Zuckerberg’s reputation for awkward public appearances.
The Meta chief executive has spent recent years trying to cultivate a more approachable public image, moving beyond his early reputation as a hoodie-wearing technology founder. His interests in running, bowhunting and mixed martial arts, as well as a more distinctive personal style, have become part of that effort.
The Guinness moment also highlighted the challenges faced by prominent technology executives attempting to appear relatable despite their extraordinary wealth and influence. Informal podcast appearances offer an opportunity to discuss business while presenting a more personal side, but unscripted moments can quickly become viral talking points.
In this case, Zuckerberg had brought a keg of Guinness reportedly shipped from Dublin to the recording. Despite the initial reaction attracting widespread attention, he appeared to enjoy more of the stout as the episode continued.
According to figures shared by TBPN commentator Tyler Cosgrove, Zuckerberg drank nearly one and a half pints by the end of the recording, surpassing both Wang and Collison.
The episode has added another viral moment to Zuckerberg’s public persona, demonstrating how even an ordinary social interaction can become a talking point when it involves one of the world’s most recognisable technology executives.
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