Additional Coverage:
- Tracee Ellis Ross, 52, on why she dates younger men: ‘A lot of men my age are steeped in toxic masculinity’ (businessinsider.com)
Tracee Ellis Ross Opens Up About Dating Younger Men
Actress Tracee Ellis Ross, 52, recently shared her preference for dating younger men, citing differences in attitudes towards gender roles and expectations. Appearing on Michelle Obama’s podcast, “IMO,” Ross explained that while younger men are undeniably attractive, her preference goes beyond physical appearance.
She expressed a weariness of men her own age who, she feels, are often entrenched in outdated ideas about relationships. Ross stated that she’s experienced feeling controlled and treated like a prize in past relationships and has no desire to repeat those dynamics.
Ross clarified that while her observation is a generalization, her experiences dating younger men have been markedly different. She noted an openness and comfort with topics like gender fluidity and homosexuality that she hasn’t always found with men her own age. The actress also emphasized that she is past the point of wanting to “teach somebody or grow them up” in a relationship.
Ross joins a growing number of high-profile women who have spoken publicly about dating younger men. Cher, for instance, has a significant age gap with her boyfriend, and other celebrities like Kris Jenner and Heidi Klum are also in relationships with younger partners. This trend even sparked a conversation on “The View,” where Joy Behar suggested that women dating younger men is a scientifically sound choice for lifespan compatibility.