Gens Z and Alpha Don’t Want to See That Rambo Bulls**t on Screen

Hollywood Reporter

by Anthony Maglio

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The study highlights a significant shift in how Gen Z and Gen Alpha view portrayals of masculinity in media. Younger audiences are moving away from traditional masculine stereotypes, such as isolation and hyper-aggression, and instead crave characters that embody vulnerability, connection, and authenticity. The UCLA Center for Scholars & Storytellers surveyed 1,500 participants aged 10-24 and found that these groups desire male characters who show love, emotional depth, and a willingness to seek help—whether it’s through parenting or mental health struggles. This preference reflects a broader cultural shift toward redefining masculinity in entertainment. The study emphasizes the importance of nuanced depictions of men in film and TV, such as those seen in *Heated Rivalry* and *The Pitt*, which showcase emotional complexity and vulnerability. For younger audiences, characters like Bluey’s Bandit—a playful, nurturing father figure—represent the ideal model of modern masculinity. In contrast, larger-than-life action heroes like Vin Diesel’s Dominic Toretto fail to resonate because they lack authenticity in their emotional expressions. This shift matters for the entertainment industry as it reflects changing expectations of masculinity and parenting among younger generations. Audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that reflect real-world experiences and values, such as prioritizing family connections over traditional male dominance. The findings suggest that creators need to adapt by incorporating more relatable and multifaceted male characters to appeal to these evolving audiences. The study also highlights the role of media in shaping societal norms. By reimagining how men are portrayed on screen, entertainment content can contribute to healthier conversations about masculinity and mental health. With 46% of respondents wanting to see men seeking help, there is a clear demand for stories that normalize vulnerability and emotional expression. Overall, the study underscores the need for the entertainment industry to

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/25/2026