Walter Johnson, the man whose unforgettable phrase “Tendernism” took social media by storm, is now the official owner of the trademark thanks to a remarkable act of help and support from Kenneth Harris, a Black attorney who stepped in to protect the culture. Johnson, who helped bring massive attention to Destination Smokehouse restaurant in Murrieta, California, through his viral catchphrase and personality, recently revealed that Attorney Harris secured the legal trademark for “Tendernism” and later gifted it to him at no cost—ensuring that the original creator now controls the phrase he made famous.
Earlier this week, Johnson announced on his TikTok channel that he had parted ways with Destination Smokehouse, the restaurant that gained widespread recognition largely because of his viral videos. Speaking directly to his followers, Johnson explained that he was no longer affiliated with the restaurant and had decided to move forward independently. Rather than dwell on the situation, he encouraged positivity and faith, telling supporters that sometimes you simply have to “take another step, get glad, and praise the Lord you’re still living.”
According to Johnson’s GoFundMe page, the situation escalated when he was ultimately fired from the restaurant he helped promote to national attention. But instead of letting that setback define his story, Johnson is now using the momentum from his viral fame to build something of his own. His next chapter includes launching a food truck where he plans to serve his signature barbecue and soul food creations—the same flavors and personality that captivated audiences online.
Beyond the food truck, Johnson also plans to travel from city to city highlighting small, locally owned barbecue and soul food restaurants. His goal is to review hidden gems, drive new customers to family-owned establishments, and shine a spotlight on hardworking entrepreneurs who often struggle for exposure. For Johnson, the movement behind “Tendernism” is about more than just food—it’s about culture, community, and economic empowerment.
The turning point came when Attorney Kenneth Harris took action to legally secure the trademark. On November 21, 2025, Harris filed two trademark applications for “tendernism” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on an Intent-to-Use basis. Instead of holding the rights for himself, Harris later gifted the trademark to Johnson, effectively placing ownership of the phrase back into the hands of the man who created it and made it famous.
Now, with the trademark officially belonging to him, Walter Johnson is free to build a brand around “Tendernism” on his own terms. What started as a viral expression in a barbecue restaurant has evolved into a powerful example of ownership, brotherhood, and support within the community. Thanks to the generosity and foresight of a Black attorney who believed in protecting the creator, Johnson’s iconic phrase is no longer just a moment on the internet—it’s a brand that finally belongs to him.
Be sure to follow his official social media pages on both Facebook and TikTok