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SHANGHAI, CHINA - JUNE 07: Actor Sean Xiao (aka Xiao Zhan) performs at Tencent Video 10th anniversary ceremony on June 7, 2021 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

Meanwhile in China: ‘Sissy Pants’ Celebrities Banned (And That Leaves…?)

“Sissy pants” isn’t really a term anyone uses anymore. Unless you’re part of the Chinese government, in which case, not only is it used but celebrities fitting that description are apparently a threat to the country.

Yes, the Chinese government recently declared that “sissy pants” threaten the strength of the country and must be banned. According to the authorities, “niangpao,” an offensive term that describes effeminate men, are showcasing “deformed aesthetics.” This would include young, gentle, delicate men who often act in dramas beloved by women.

Apparently, people believe that exposing youth to these kinds of celebrities is damaging, and will result in a less macho population.

“Masculinity is being associated with nationalism,” Cui Le, a researcher on queer issues in China with the University of Auckland, said. “It’s believed the effeminate male image could mislead young people, hinder the nation’s rejuvenation, and weaken the country’s ability in fighting with others.”

Oddly enough, the celebs who would fall under the “sissy pants” umbrella, like Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo, are some of China’s highest-earning stars.

Whatever happened to the philosophy “give the people what they want”? Ah, well. Surely Hollywood has plenty of room for these money-making entertainers if their homelands reject them. In the U.S., big and brawny TV and movie stars are out as far as we can tell. Bring on the sissies!

Cover Photo: VCG / Contributor (Getty Images)

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