Gen Z Is Fighting Back Against Hollywood Movies’ Masculine Stereotype, Says New Study

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As a movie fan, it’s really interesting to see how Gen Z and the even younger Gen Alpha are changing things up, and it looks like Hollywood is next. A recent study shows they’re actively rejecting those old, tired tropes of how men should be portrayed on screen – and honestly, it’s about time! They’re pushing for something more realistic and diverse, and I’m excited to see where it leads.

A new UCLA study from the Center for Scholars & Storytellers (CSS) finds that action and thriller heroes are becoming more emotionally open. This isn’t about rejecting traditional masculinity, but rather moving away from the stoic, isolated hero and embracing characters who are more vulnerable and willing to connect with others.

A new study, “Gen Alpha and Gen Z: Evolving Masculinity,” shows that young people (ages 10-24) want to see male characters who are caring and show their emotions. They’re tired of the traditional strong, silent hero and are looking for dads and men on screen who are affectionate and vulnerable. This research is part of CSS’ Teen Snapshot series, which focuses on understanding what young people want in media so storytellers can create content that resonates with them and makes a positive impact.

The New Generation Wants to Redefine What a Powerful Man Looks Like

For a long time, Hollywood portrayed powerful male characters in a very specific way – often focusing on physical strength, like muscular builds and tall stature. When actors didn’t fit that mold, power was typically shown through wealth and status.

Younger generations, like Gen Z and Gen Alpha, are looking for more authenticity and less traditional displays of masculinity. A recent study found that the vast majority – almost 60% – of adolescents surveyed specifically want to see more fathers openly expressing love and enjoying the experience of parenting.

Shows like Modern Family, particularly the character Phil Dunphy, and Bluey, with its dad Bandit Heeler, have highlighted the importance of loving and engaged fathers. Bandit was especially admired for being patient, imaginative, and dedicated.

Alan Ritchson, known for his role in Reacher, recently starred in a film that received similar criticism. The movie, co-starring Kevin James, portrays outdated and problematic ideas about what it means to be a man and a father. Specifically, James’ character struggles with the idea of being a stay-at-home dad and expressing affection towards his son.

Shows like Ted Lasso and Shrinking have gained huge popularity by portraying men as strong while also showing their emotional side. They openly address mental health and challenge the stigma surrounding it, and this approach has made them incredibly successful – not only for Apple TV+, but for television as a whole.

The study also found that 46% of people want to see content featuring men seeking help, even with sensitive topics.

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2026-02-25 22:06