David Corenswet faces backlash over ‘masculinity’ comment in viral interview

David Corenswet has landed in hot waters for his controversial remarks during a recent appearance.

The 32-year-old actor was sitting down for Variety’s Actors on Actors with Jonathan Bailey to discuss their box office hits, Superman and Wicked: For Good.

During the conversation, the duo talked filming kissing scenes while levitating— Corenswet with Rachel Brosnahan as Clark and Lois in Superman and Bailey with Cynthia Erivo as Fieyro and Elphaba in Wicked: For Good.

The Twisters actor commended the Bridgerton actor for being able to preserve his "masculinity" while being lifted up by a woman.

"You had the bigger challenge. You are carried by Cynthia. She’s levitating you," he said. "Every man out there would think, There’s no way you can look masculine and powerful and in control when you’re being levitated by a woman."

In response, Bailey hesitated for a moment before describing it as his "greatest privilege” to work with his female co-stars.

While Corenswet continued, "You somehow, in that moment, when she’s lifting you by your arms…You somehow maintain your masculinity. It was amazing. Well done, mate. ‘Cause it’s a lot easier when you get to carry the girl."

Bailey appeared uncomfortable at first, but then he began praising co-stars Erivo and Ariana Grande.

“It was a total honour. And also, I mean, listen. I’d be carried by both Cynthia and Ari for the rest of my life if I could be. What a treat to be able to come and do my bit, but also to share a moment like that.” he said.

Shortly after the clip went viral on X (formerly Twitter), netizens called out Corenswet’s statement, expressing disappointment with him.

One user wrote, “He's just another man I'm not surprised.” (sic)

Another remarked, “Why is the concept of masculinity for so many straight men about being 'in control' and 'powerful' in relation to women? It just feels inherently misogynistic because why must we always be made inferior on some level for you to feel like a man?”

“David seems really nice, but that whole statement about keeping your masculinity is such a thin, cliche and boring statement to make,” a third noted.

It is important to note that David Corenswet has not yet responded to the claims.