Abstract Controlled manipulation of the form of carbon nanotubes is useful for nano-electromechanical systems. In this study, a movable micromanipulator in a transmission electron microscope was used to apply an electric current to a kinked Ni-filled multiwalled carbon nanotube, causing electromigration of the Ni nanorod filler. The force of electromigration led to deformation of the kinked Ni-filled nanotube, and the kinked Ni-filled nanotube became straight. The phenomenon resulted in a joint-like movement of the carbon nanotube.