PHOTO: Jimmy, the proprietor of a merchandise store in Kuta since 2009, found online fame through his unique approach of using profanity and insults when interacting with patrons
A renowned shop owner in Bali, affectionately known as ‘Jimmy Hendrix,’ gained widespread attention for his colorful outbursts while dealing with customers, primarily Aussies, which made him a viral sensation. However, Jimmy has reached a breaking point and now urges visitors to cease filming unless they intend to make a purchase.
Jimmy, the proprietor of a merchandise store in Kuta since 2009, found online fame through his unique approach of using profanity and insults when interacting with patrons, especially Australian tourists. In a video shared on the internet, a dejected Jimmy encounters two Australian customers entering his shop.
Waving his hands at the duo, Jimmy firmly states that they shouldn’t film unless they plan to buy something. He warns, “No more filming unless you’re shopping here.”
One of the tourists responds, “I’ve got money. I’m going to buy something.”
Jimmy reiterates his message: “Make sure you buy.”
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Following a brief discussion about the products available, the two visitors initiate a negotiation over the price of a shirt bearing the phrase ‘Jimmy F****ing Hendrix.’ The person holding the camera approaches for a closer look, prompting Jimmy to angrily gesture for him to step away.
“Stop coming here, you foolish individual,” Jimmy is heard saying. The shop owner, appearing unimpressed, offers the shirt to the traveler for $15.
“That’s fine, brother. Keep the change,” the tourist says, handing him a $20 note. “I don’t need a bag; I’m putting the shirt on right away,” he adds.
Jimmy then unleashes another string of explicit insults before the two shake hands. One of the Aussie holiday-goers captions the video: “Jimmy Hendrix, you’re a legend, brother. Don’t just record him for the views; actually support him.”
The store owner however had a different tone in a recent video uploaded to TikTok, telling two visitors to stop filming if they weren’t going to buy something (pictured)
Social media users expressed sympathy for the local shop owner, with many acknowledging that Jimmy seemed weary. One user wrote, “The poor guy just wants to sell shirts; he doesn’t want to be bothered.” Another commented, “He’s a good person, but some people only use him for videos and views without making any purchases. Good on you for buying a shirt, brother.”
A third user asked, “Who was unkind to Jimmy? Who made him feel this way?” Another said, “Jimmy looks sad; someone should check if he’s okay.”
One tourist shared their experience, saying, “I gave him a $100 tip before recording, and he was so appreciative. But he also explained how he’s tired of having phones pointed at his face, and no one comes in to buy things; they just want attention. I asked him if he was okay, and he said he has his good and bad days.”
The video has since garnered over 2.3 million views. Jimmy and his store have rapidly become a tourist attraction, with many people turning to TikTok to document their unconventional customer service encounters.