New Editorial Discusses Bisexual Men as Hollywood’s Rising Stars

A recent piece from the Wall Street Journal suggests that a bisexual, sexually fluid man has emerged as a major figure in popular television. The article, titled “Why Bisexual Men Are Hollywood’s Breakout Stars,” asserts that shows like White Lotus, Fierce Rivalry, and Bridgerton have given rise to a new kind of heartthrob—one who embodies both traditional masculinity and an openness to same-sex attraction.

The author, Pamela Paul, points out that these bisexual or “nearly heterosexual” characters resonate with a broad audience. She describes this trend as a kind of “bi renaissance,” noting that bisexual individuals are often viewed as inherently sexual, which aligns with the fantasy of a new type of man appealing to various demographics.

Interestingly, Paul suggests that the rising visibility of bisexual men on screen may create specific fantasies for straight women. She poses a question regarding whether bisexuality might help to correct some gender dynamics, drawing a parallel to Sharon Stone’s notable scene in Basic Instinct. This scene, she argues, had a certain reassuring effect on straight men during times of social change.

Traditionally, bisexual characters have often been cast as antagonists, but there’s a growing trend to portray them in a more appealing light. Changes in demographics indicate that a larger percentage of Americans, particularly from Gen Z, identify as bisexual compared to the past.

In a related discussion featured in Harper’s Bazaar, Lewis Staples describes Fierce Rivalry as something akin to escapist gay porn for female viewers, reminiscent of how some men may have enjoyed shows like Lesbian Bones. He mentions that many female fans find the show undeniably attractive, which might surprise some. Interestingly, nearly half of gay male porn is reportedly consumed by women. A friend of Staples commented on the appeal of gay porn as a form of escapism, contrasting it with straight porn, which he feels can often be degrading to women.

While this might seem minor, the dynamics between Shane and Elijah in Fierce Rivalry stand out because they both find satisfaction in their encounters. This resonance could be particularly appealing to women, especially when many representations of heterosexual sex primarily highlight one partner’s pleasure.