U of M crowns most performative male, bringing TikTok trend to life

The University of Minnesota's "performative male" contest featured 38 contestants who humorously embodied the new archetype of Gen Z men attempting to attract women through exaggerated behaviors. Contestants performed for an audience of over 150 people, with acts that included giving away menstrual products and brewing matcha on-site. The event highlighted a satirical trend gaining popularity on TikTok, where videos tagged with "performative male" have amassed millions of views. Participants expressed their concerns about the dating scene, where misrepresentation is common, with nearly 40% of Gen Z users reporting being catfished. Savannah Tanner, a 2023 graduate, commented on the mixed perceptions of these behaviors, noting that while they can increase approachability, they also raise skepticism among women.

Contest organizers, including Matthew Bi, pointed out a growing trend of distrust towards men in the dating landscape. Colin Phan emerged victorious, performing as his alter-ego "Jimmy," showcasing the humorous and ironic nature of the contest. This event reflects a broader cultural dialogue about authenticity and performance in dating among Gen Z.