Jesse Watters’ “Rules for Men” on Photoshop Sparks Online Backlash

Fox News host Jesse Watters is no stranger to stirring controversy, but his latest “rule for men” has sent shockwaves through social media. During a discussion on The Five on July 9, Watters offered his take on masculinity while commenting on a photo shared by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.). The image, which was later deleted, appeared to have been altered using photo-editing software, specifically with a warped bench background around Jeffries’ hips.

Watters didn’t mince words, declaring:
“Rules for men: A man should never Photoshop his picture. Ever! A man who Photoshops his picture is a woman. And you never shrink your hips. Why is he shrinking his hips? Does he have childbearing hips? What is it about his hips that he’s uncomfortable with? That’s the question.”

The Backlash: Hypocrisy and Mockery

As soon as Watters’ comments aired, viewers jumped onto social media, criticizing his remarks and mercilessly mocking him. The backlash was swift and pointed, with many calling out his apparent hypocrisy.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) quipped, “Coming from a guy who wears makeup and airbrushes his whole personality.” Another added, “Jesse Watters is literally wearing makeup,” highlighting the inconsistency in Watters’ criticism of others for using photo-editing tools while seemingly engaging in similar behavior.

Others were less subtle in their critique:
“Yet no issue with caking the makeup on? Still … THIS is the trash they put on the air? THIS is what they worry themselves with?”

Many users took issue with Watters’ insecurity about masculinity, commenting on how odd it was for someone to impose such rigid standards. One pointed out, “Real men do whatever they want without considering what Jesse happens to think.” Another added, “Imagine being so insecure about masculinity that you need cable news rules for what makes you a real man. ‘Chapter 47: Real men don’t use Valencia filter.’”

One particularly biting comment read: “Watters is an insecure man-child.”

Watters’ “Rules for Men” Track Record

This latest controversy isn’t the first time Watters has sparked anger with his “rules for men.” Previously, the conservative host has made claims that men shouldn’t “lick ice cream in public,” “take bubble baths alone,” “go grocery shopping with their wives,” “wave with both hands,” or even “wish other men a happy birthday.”

His contradictory stance on masculinity has also led to eyebrow-raising moments. At one point, Watters claimed that “real men don’t talk about masculinity,” yet he frequently finds himself commenting on the topic. His critics argue that this contradiction adds fuel to the fire of his increasing reputation for promoting outdated and often ridiculous ideas of what it means to be a man.

A Question of Real Masculinity

Despite the overwhelming backlash, Watters’ comments highlight a larger, ongoing debate about traditional masculinity, personal expression, and societal expectations. In the digital age, where self-image is often curated and edited, some feel that people should be free to express themselves however they see fit, regardless of societal norms.

For many, Watters’ opinion represents a regressive and narrow view of manhood. In contrast, others continue to support his stance, agreeing with the idea that photo-editing is “unmanly” and suggesting that men should embrace a more authentic version of themselves.

Conclusion: A Reminder of Changing Norms

Jesse Watters’ latest remarks on The Five have ignited a social media firestorm, with reactions ranging from mocking to enraged. Whether you agree with Watters’ definition of masculinity or find it outdated and hypocritical, his comments highlight the ongoing clash between evolving cultural norms and traditional ideals of manhood. One thing’s for sure: in the world of media and public discourse, even the most offhand remarks can spark a viral debate about values, identity, and authenticity.

What do you think about Watters’ latest “rule”? Do you agree, or do you think it’s an outdated view of masculinity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.