Recent news coverage of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) has led a significant portion of Americans, especially younger generations, to believe more strongly in the existence of aliens. A survey conducted by Talker Research of 2,000 Americans revealed that 37% now hold a greater belief in extraterrestrial life due to this increased media attention.
More than half of respondents, 54%, reported no change in their opinion, while 10% stated that recent coverage has made them believe less in aliens. The impact of this news surge is most pronounced among younger demographics. Among Gen Z, 54% have increased their belief in aliens influenced by recent news stories. This trend decreases with age, with 45% of millennials, 36% of Gen X, and 23% of baby boomers reporting a similar increase in belief.
Men are also more likely than women to feel that recent news coverage has bolstered their belief in aliens, with 43% of men expressing this sentiment compared to 33% of women. When it comes to reacting to the potential confirmation of alien life, Americans are more likely to be curious than fearful. The survey found that 38% would be curious, while 17% would be fearful if intelligent alien life were confirmed.
Men were also nearly twice as likely as women to express excitement about such a revelation, with 20% of men and 11% of women saying they would be excited. Despite the potential societal implications, 45% of respondents believe that society is prepared for a definitive announcement of alien existence. However, a majority of 55% feel that society is not adequately prepared to comprehend the existence of otherworldly beings.
The survey also suggests a widespread belief that governments possess more information about UFOs than they have publicly disclosed. Sixty percent of those polled think governments know more about UFOs than they have shared to date.
Beyond news coverage, popular culture also appears to influence beliefs. Over half of those surveyed, 54%, feel that movies and television shows about aliens have contributed to a greater likelihood of Americans believing in intelligent extraterrestrial life. Conversely, 27% see no correlation between alien-themed media and belief levels, and 8% believe it makes people less likely to believe.
The Talker Research survey was administered online to 2,000 general population Americans between July 1 and July 6, 2026.