AceShowbiz - In 1998, when MTV music videos were a dominant cultural force for younger generations, one video stood out for its humor and catchy tune: the Offspring’s "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)." Directed by McG, the video captured the essence of a certain awkward, “try-hard” character—a white guy mimicking hip-hop style with backward caps, oversized jerseys, and gold chains. The actor who brought this iconic figure to life was Guy Cohen, whose performance has since become a lasting symbol of the 1990s pop culture landscape.

Guy Cohen’s portrayal was memorable not just for the song’s critique of cultural appropriation but for the lighthearted, campy energy he brought to the role. His awkward dancing and comedic timing made the character endearing to fans, who often embraced the playful spirit of the video. Over the years, Cohen has appeared on stage with the Offspring at various shows, including recent performances at the Kia Forum, the When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas, and the BeachLife Festival in Redondo Beach.

Recently, Rolling Stone caught up with Guy Cohen to discuss his enduring fame, the impact of the "Pretty Fly" video, and his life today, which has taken an unexpected turn into political livestreaming.

Reflecting on his lasting presence in pop culture, Cohen noted that the character remains an “endearing image of the Nineties,” evoking nostalgia for a simpler time before social media took over. “It just brings joy to people, so I’m happy to embrace it,” he said, observing that the character’s popularity may be even stronger now than it was at the time of the video’s release.

Cohen’s journey to starring in the video began shortly after he started acting at 18. At that time, music videos were a popular way for aspiring actors to gain experience, especially since they were non-union and similar to extra work. Prior to the Offspring video, he appeared in Alanis Morissette’s "Thank U" video, playing one of the indistinct figures walking by while she stood naked. The "Pretty Fly" video, however, became one of the most successful music videos ever, significantly changing his life.

When asked about his approach to the character’s movements, Cohen explained that he didn’t take the dancing seriously. The entire video was a parody of the “white guy trying to be down with a different culture,” a trope prevalent in the late 1990s. While not a trained dancer, Cohen created most of the moves himself, including the signature leg jumps and goofy antics. He credited director McG with showing him a move called “the Molly Ringwald,” but otherwise, Cohen relied on his own playful energy to craft the performance.

The song and video still resonate with new audiences, Cohen observed. “We are seeing three generations of families going to concerts together—little ones, parents, and even grandparents,” he said. The Offspring’s music remains family-friendly enough to appeal across age groups, and at shows, he often spots dozens of fans dressed as his character, underscoring the video’s lasting cultural footprint.

Remarkably, Cohen has maintained his youthful appearance since the video was filmed when he was 18. Now 46, he credits genetics, a healthy lifestyle, and a commitment to avoiding sun exposure as key factors. “I don’t drink or smoke, I wear sunscreen every day with face lotion, and I stay indoors a lot,” he said. His current work as a full-time livestreamer keeps him inside and away from the sun’s effects.

Under the streaming name “I’m Really Important,” Cohen has carved a new niche discussing politics on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Twitch. His streams include political debates and news analysis, where he strives to present stories with a positive spin. “I care about all my fellow Americans,” he said. “The more you understand our government, the more optimistic you are about the future because you see opportunity and limits.” His goal is to make politics both entertaining and educational.

While his livestream followers don’t often connect him to the "Pretty Fly" video, Cohen doesn’t hide his past. He joked that if he wore the character’s outfit today, he would be stopped everywhere. He also considers himself possibly the biggest Offspring livestreamer, with many fans visiting his channel because of his association with the band.

Cohen’s political profile has grown through appearances on popular YouTube debate channels like Jubilee, where he has even debated personalities like Ben Shapiro, generating viral moments. He has also toured college campuses with fellow livestreamer Destiny, presenting a left-leaning perspective in contrast to conservative groups like Turning Point USA. His efforts have drawn mainstream media attention, including a feature by CNN.

Despite his varied career, Cohen keeps a warm connection with the Offspring. He and frontman Dexter Holland have stayed in touch over the years, occasionally reconnecting for shows. Usually, these meetings are rare and informal, but in recent years, Dexter has invited Cohen back to perform on stage, including at the Kia Forum and BeachLife Festival. Cohen described these experiences as special opportunities to reconnect with the band and the character that launched his public life.

Looking ahead, Cohen’s blend of nostalgic appeal and current political engagement creates a unique legacy. From a breakout role in one of the 1990s’ most memorable music videos to a respected presence in political livestreaming, Guy Cohen continues to captivate audiences in unexpected ways. His story illustrates how a single cultural moment can evolve into a multigenerational phenomenon while opening doors to new chapters in life and career.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Rolling Stone.