Double Standards in Dating: Tracee Ellis Ross vs. Trick Daddy
Tracee Ellis Ross opens up about dating younger men, highlighting toxic masculinity in older men—sparking a conversation about gendered double standards in dating.
Trick Daddy recently went viral for saying he doesn’t want to date older women, the backlash was swift. Social media lit up with critiques, calling his comments ageist and misogynistic. But when Tracee Ellis Ross, 52, openly shared that she prefers dating younger men, the internet largely applauded her for her honesty and confidence. The difference in response highlights a long-standing double standard in how society views dating preferences based on gender.Ross, best known for her roles in Girlfriends and Black-ish, explained that her attraction to younger men isn’t about appearances, but mindset. “A lot of men my age are steeped in toxic masculinity,” she said. “I have long been past the age where I feel like it’s my job to teach somebody or grow them up.” For Ross, dating younger partners often means connecting with men who are more emotionally open and less entrenched in rigid gender roles.While Trick Daddy’s comments were perceived as dismissive, Ross’s were seen as empowering. The difference? Society is more comfortable with men being the choosers and women adapting. When women, especially older women, assert their preferences, it disrupts that expectation—and the reactions can vary wildly depending on how it’s framed.The applause for Ross reflects progress in normalizing women’s agency and desire at any age. But the criticism of Trick Daddy—despite his arguably similar sentiment—shows how tricky these conversations can be. Both comments stem from personal preferences, yet only one sparked celebration.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR APP AND TAKE US WITH YOU ANYWHERE!
