While some doppelgängers are vague, the facial structure of Steve P’s makeup mirrors the historical photos of Rasputin with shocking accuracy. The heavy eyelids, the shadow under the cheekbone, and even the shape of the nose create a "glitch in the matrix" feeling. Is Steve P consciously emulating Rasputin? Almost certainly not—he is emulating Liberace, who looked nothing like Rasputin. But genetics (and professional contouring) have a wicked sense of humor.
The "Steve P" in question is not a politician or a tech CEO; he is Steve P. (or Steve Petronio), a professional Liberace tribute artist. For decades, Steve has performed in venues across the United States, particularly in the Las Vegas region, honoring the legacy of the legendary showman Wladziu Valentino Liberace.
Steve P’s act is a time capsule. He dons the crystal-encrusted capes, plays the rhinestone-covered pianos, and reproduces the theatrical, classical-meets-pop stylings that made Liberace a household name. However, Steve P remained a niche figure in the entertainment world until the algorithm gods of social media decided otherwise. steve p and rasputin
In 2019-2020, a specific image of Steve P began circulating on Reddit, 9GAG, and Twitter. The photo shows a heavily made-up Steve P. in full Liberace regalia: a white fur coat, a massive jeweled ring, and a blonde coif. But it wasn't the costume that shocked the internet—it was his face.
Staying true to the historical Rasputin’s reputation as a mystic, the character frequently goes on long-winded tangents about the occult, curses, and spiritual healing. He often threatens to place curses on Steve P, the studio equipment, or other callers. While some doppelgängers are vague, the facial structure
Rasputin often calls in to answer trivia or questions posed by Steve. His answers are never correct and are usually metaphysical or nonsensical.
And then, there is Rasputin.
Drawing on the legendary historical figure—the "Mad Monk" who would not die, the mystic who healed emperors and baffled the aristocracy—the "Rasputin" half of this duo brings something entirely different to the table. He brings intensity.
Rasputin represents the ancient wisdom that cannot be taught in an MBA program. He is the intuition, the vibe, the unpredictable variable that disrupts the algorithm. While Steve P is building the house, Rasputin is the storm that tests its windows. He is the reminder that life is not linear. He embodies the kind of resilience that borders on the supernatural. Almost certainly not—he is emulating Liberace, who looked
Where Steve P is the logic, Rasputin is the magic.
The "Steve P and Rasputin" segments usually revolve around a few specific tropes: