Jerry Seinfeld recently expressed his nostalgia for “dominant masculinity” in American pop culture. In an episode of the “Honestly with Bari Weiss” podcast, the 70-year-old comedian talked about his new Netflix comedy, “Unfrosted,” set in the 1960s. During the discussion, he lamented the loss of traditional masculinity, even though he acknowledged that his own career does not embody that image.
Seinfeld pointed out the masculine icons of the past, such as John F. Kennedy, Muhammad Ali, Sean Connery, and Howard Cosell, as examples of what he considers “real men.” He fondly recalled idolizing these figures during his childhood, emphasizing their embodiment of dominant masculinity. Despite his admiration for these icons, Seinfeld humorously admitted that he doesn’t portray this image himself. He joked about his own style, comparing it to that of an eight-year-old, and remarked that although he always aspired to be a “real man,” he never quite achieved it.
Addressing the concept of toxic masculinity, Seinfeld acknowledged the negative aspects but still advocated for a return to a certain level of traditional masculinity. He expressed a desire for the reemergence of what he called an “unspoken hierarchy” in society, highlighting his appreciation for traits he associates with being a real man.
While promoting “Unfrosted,” Seinfeld praised his co-star Hugh Grant, 63, as an example of the kind of masculinity he admires. He described Grant as someone who knows how to dress, talk, and charm people at dinner parties, embodying the qualities Seinfeld finds appealing.
This discussion came shortly after Seinfeld addressed the “uncomfortable sexual undertones” in his 2007 animated film, “Bee Movie,” during a commencement speech at Duke University. He admitted that the film might not have been perfectly calibrated in that regard but maintained that he would not change it. His comments were made in a light-hearted manner, aiming to impart a lesson about humor to the graduating students.
In his speech, Seinfeld shared his reflections on his career and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in comedy. He also addressed concerns about his health after fans noticed him trembling in a recent interview. Despite these concerns, Seinfeld focused on the importance of humor and the need to navigate its complexities.
Seinfeld’s comments on masculinity and his reflections on his career offer a glimpse into his personal views and experiences. His nostalgic yearning for the traditional masculine icons of the past contrasts with his recognition of the changes in modern society. As he continues to explore these themes in his work, Seinfeld remains a significant figure in the world of comedy, known for his unique perspective and enduring appeal.
The episode of “Honestly with Bari Weiss” featuring Seinfeld’s insights provides an engaging look at the comedian’s thoughts on masculinity, humor, and his career. As he promotes “Unfrosted,” set in a decade he fondly remembers for its traditional masculinity, Seinfeld’s reflections resonate with audiences who appreciate his blend of humor and introspection.