- Anthony Mackie believes masculinity is changing negatively and focuses on raising his sons with humility, traditional manners, and responsibility. He stresses keeping them grounded and prioritizing family values over materialism.
- Nearly half of young men, according to a 2024 NRG study, feel uncertain about masculinity today, with many seeking role models in media and public figures.
- Hollywood could play a role in redefining modern masculinity, offering evolving narratives as gender roles shift.
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Anthony Mackie believes masculinity is changing—and not for the better. The “Captain America: Brave New World” star says he is raising his sons with his own perspective on masculinity and values.
During a recent episode of “The Pivot” podcast, Mackie spoke about fatherhood and the lessons he wants to instill in his children. His comments come as a 2024 National Research Group (NRG) study found that 43% of young men between 13 and 30 feel uncertain about what it means to be a man today.
Mackie’s approach to fatherhood
Mackie keeps his sons grounded. He wants them to focus on humility rather than material things.
“I keep my boys humble,” Mackie said. “Like, my boys have never had a pair of Jordans… you know, my boys don’t do all that internet fly s***.”
He says he also teaches them traditional manners, including saying “sir” and “ma’am” and opening doors for women. Above all, he says he instills responsibility, making sure they take care of their mother.
Mackie and his ex-wife, Sheletta Chapital, share four sons. The two met in grade school and married in 2014 before finalizing their divorce in 2018.
A larger conversation about masculinity
“They have literally killed masculinity in our homes and our communities for one reason or another,” he said. “But I raise my boys to be young men. And however you feel about that, you feel about that.”
His comments reflect a larger discussion happening among young men. The NRG study found that nearly half of men surveyed seek masculine role models in fictional characters, celebrities, and public figures.
A report from The Wrap suggests that Hollywood has the opportunity to redefine modern masculinity. As gender roles evolve, the industry can shape new narratives about what it means to be a man today.
