December 24, 2007 | Funny Bits

Yes, Virginia, there is a Zanta

Toronto has an unofficial mascot who has been amusing, and frightening, people in the city since 2004. He wears nothing but his shorts, boots and a Santa hat, wandering the city while shouting "yes yes yes" and "Merry Christmas." He flexes at streetcars, and claims he does 2,000 to 3,000 push-ups a day.

Meet Zanta, aka David Zancai. Crazy? Maybe, but he says he is simply "in character." No one is quite sure why he created this unique personality though one story says his daughter was taken away from him and he swore he would wear the Santa hat until she was returned to him. Another story claims he is simply looking for fame, Jerry Springer style.

This year he was banned by the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) from using any public transportation for two years. He is currently fighting the ban, but has decided to retire until the city invites him back. "I want to give my fans the opportunity to stand up for me. They'll say, 'Toronto isn't Toronto without Zanta.' The city's gonna call back for me. There will be a big outcry. I'm loved by millions."

And though we believe in Zanta -- we really do -- we don't see the mayor making that phone call anytime soon.