Saturday, February 28, 2026

Teenagers want male characters to show more “empathy” and “emotional availability” on screen, report reveals

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for more diverse and positive representations of masculinity in the media. And it seems like the message is finally getting through, as a recent HBO hit has been praised for its portrayal of male characters. The show, which has captured the hearts of viewers, has been hailed as a positive representation of masculinity, showing that there is a growing appetite for more empathetic and emotionally available male characters on screen.

The show in question is none other than HBO’s hit series, “Euphoria”. The show, which follows a group of teenagers as they navigate through the complexities of high school, has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of teenage life. But what has really caught the attention of viewers is the way it portrays its male characters.

In a recent report by NME, it was revealed that teenagers want to see more empathy and emotional availability from male characters on screen. And “Euphoria” seems to have hit the mark, with its male characters showing a range of emotions and vulnerabilities that are not often seen in mainstream media.

One of the main characters, Nate Jacobs, is a prime example of this. At first glance, Nate may seem like the typical jock – popular, good-looking, and confident. But as the show progresses, we see a much more complex and troubled side to him. He struggles with anger and control issues, stemming from his toxic relationship with his father. And as the layers of his character are peeled back, we see a vulnerable and emotionally damaged young man, struggling to come to terms with his own identity.

Another character that has resonated with viewers is Jules Vaughn, a transgender girl who moves to town and becomes friends with the main character, Rue. Jules is portrayed as a strong and confident young woman, unapologetically embracing her true self. But as the show delves deeper into her character, we see her struggle with her own insecurities and fears, making her all the more relatable and human.

But it’s not just the main characters that are breaking the mold of traditional masculinity. Even the supporting male characters in “Euphoria” are given depth and complexity, showing a range of emotions and vulnerabilities that are often reserved for female characters. This not only adds depth to the story but also sends a powerful message about the fluidity of gender and the importance of breaking away from toxic masculinity.

The positive response to “Euphoria” and its portrayal of masculinity is a clear indication that audiences are hungry for more diverse and nuanced representations of men on screen. And it’s not just teenagers who are craving this change. People of all ages and backgrounds are looking for more empathetic and emotionally available male characters, as it reflects the changing attitudes towards masculinity in society.

It’s time for the media to catch up with the times and start portraying men in a more positive and realistic light. The days of the stoic, emotionless male hero are over. It’s time to embrace a more diverse and inclusive representation of masculinity, one that allows men to be vulnerable, emotional, and complex.

In conclusion, “Euphoria” has set a new standard for the portrayal of masculinity in the media. Its honest and raw depiction of male characters has struck a chord with viewers, showing that there is a demand for more empathetic and emotionally available men on screen. Let’s hope that this is just the beginning of a much-needed change in the way men are portrayed in the media.

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