New York Magazine's Men's Style Issue Featuring Elliot Page Sparks Controversy
The magazine's debut men's style issue, featuring a shirtless Elliot Page, has drawn criticism from commentators who question the editorial choices and the representation of masculinity.
New York Magazine has launched its inaugural men's style issue, featuring actor Elliot Page on one of its covers. The issue, which explores men's fashion and the figures shaping the industry, has become a focal point for debate regarding masculinity and media representation.
The magazine's editorial team highlighted its history of covering men's fashion, referencing past articles from 1971 and 1996, as well as a recurring segment within its women's fashion issues starting in 2006. The current issue aims to capture the contemporary landscape of men's style, noting shifts in fashion trends and the influence of various personalities.
Elliot Page, who is transgender, is featured shirtless in the context of an article exploring New York's Russian & Turkish Baths. Page shared his thoughts on masculinity, stating, "I went to a bathhouse recently. I’ve only in the past couple of years been like, 'Yeah, that sounds nice, to like go somewhere and sit around in your body like that.'"
Commentators have voiced criticism regarding the magazine's choice of cover subject and the editorial direction. Link Lauren, a political commentator, argued that the media has a "shortage of masculinity" and that the inclusion of Page, described as a "biological female," in a men's style feature undermines the concept. Lauren suggested the choice was driven by a desire for attention rather than a genuine interest in men's style, stating, "They knew this cover would generate attention and controversy. I don’t think they actually care about men or style — they care about clicks."
Tim Graham, executive editor of media watchdog NewsBusters, also criticized the decision. He expressed skepticism about the magazine's understanding of gender in the context of a "Men's Style" feature, referencing Page's past role as Ellen Page in the film "Juno." Graham characterized the move as a "woke pose" intended to garner progressive applause.
The publication's editorial for the issue noted the evolving landscape of men's fashion, stating, "Now, 20 years later — when even 15-year-olds are ‘hype’ about Ralph, Armani’s got a brand-new designer, and a pair of worn Chrome Hearts jeans can go for $100,000 — feels like the right moment to devote a special issue to men’s style: the power players shaping the business, the new characters shaking up the scene, the old ‘semi-supermodels’ who are still around."