The “performative male”: A new masculine archetype
He is the opposite of macho — the antithesis of toxic masculinity.
From The Times
September 5, 2025

People on social media are obsessing over “performative males,” a new masculine archetype. But what is a performative male? He is the opposite of macho — the antithesis of toxic masculinity. His vibe is designed to attract progressive women.

Four pictures in a grid show a man carrying a Trader Joe’s tote, the book “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney, a green drink in a glass and a Labubu doll with pink fuzzy fur.

Clockwise from bottom left: Armando Rafael, April Alexander, Ye Fan for The New York Times; Getty Images

So how do you spot him? →

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