Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta

Gwinnett teen dances with Katy Perry on ‘SNL’

By Amanda C. Coyne
May 22, 2017

Surrounded by drag queens, smoke and a flutter of confetti, a Lawrenceville teen made his “Saturday Night Live” debut alongside pop star Katy Perry.

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Russell Horning, known online as "Backpack Kid" and his Instagram handle "i_got_barzz,"performed his signature dance move, jerking his arms back and forth and swaying his hips.

Horning was invited to dance during Perry's performance of her new song "Swish Swish" after the pop star happened upon his Instagram page, Horning told USA Today.

But Horning wasn't the only Gwinnett County native sharing the stage with Perry on Saturday night. Rap group Migos, also hailing from Lawrenceville, are featured in Perry's song "Bon Appetit," which she also performed at the show. Horning made sure to get a 'gram with his hometown rappers.

Watch Perry's performance here — and keep an eye out for Horning at the 2:30 mark.

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About the Author

Amanda Coyne is a hyperlocal reporter for the AJC, covering Gwinnett County.

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