Male Tropes To Watch Out For
This blog may be known for critique of female characterisation, but that doesn’t mean male tropes don’t get a look in! I’ve been working on a new novel for 2026, so I’ve been researching male characterisation A LOT recently. Ready? Let’s go …
1) The Gentle Monster
Example: Kofun in See (Apple TV+)
Kofun is an outsider in his own world. He is physically powerful, raised in violence, but seeks connection over destruction. He is deeply sensitive and doesn’t want to harm anyone. Kofun’s refusal to lean into brutality makes him quietly radical in a storyworld that rewards dominance. His gentleness IS his rebellion.
2) The Devoted Nihilist
Example: Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men
It might be the age of the antihero in the 2020s, but what happens when your antagonist believes in fate, randomness, and the meaninglessness of life? You get Anton Chigurh!
Cormac McCarthy’s 2005 novel was adapted by the Coen Brothers, winning the ‘Best Picture’ Oscar in 2008. It’s not difficult to see why: Chigurh follows his own code with chilling consistency. He’s not chaotic, he’s methodical.
His detachment makes him even more terrifying, making Devoted Nihilist one of my favourite male tropes of all time. THAT scene in the gas station as he weighs up whether to kill the man behind the counter is truly terrifying. Love it.
3) The Apologetic Master Manipulator
Example: Tom Ripley in The Talented Mr. Ripley
There’s been a number of adaptations of Patricia Highsmith’s classic character, but it’s the 1999 movie directed by Anthony Minghella that’s my ultimate fave!
Tom’s shy, awkward charm hides a chillingly strategic mind. He doesn’t yell, he doesn’t threaten. He simply lies with tears in his eyes and blood on his hands.
Tom will cry as he ruins your life … and THAT ending to the movie! What a gut punch. Wow. Nearly thirty years on, it still gives me chills.
4) The Golden Boy Unplugged
Example: Kendall Roy in Succession
Once groomed for greatness, Kendall is now spiralling in real time. He still wears the suit, still talks the talk but his polished exterior is cracking, revealing a desperate, broken man trying to prove he matters.
Kendall’s arc is a cautionary tale about how extreme privilege, familial trauma, and a lack of self-awareness can lead to a cycle of self-destruction and unfulfilled potential.
Sadly, this one of the male tropes in this list that make it into real life all the time.
5) The Jovial Psychopath
Example: Dementus in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Dementus is funny, theatrical, and bursting with charisma … until the slaughter starts. He treats cruelty like performance art and war like a game.
His joy is the horror … yet Dementus still recognises there’s an integral part of him that is missing. It’s why he is drawn to the child Furiosa, or zones out when Praetorian Jack is dragged to death. But Dementus is too far down the road to stop.
BONUS!
6) The Morally Grey Hero
Example: Xaden Riorson in Fourth Wing (The Empyrean Series)
Xaden Riorson is fierce, devoted, brooding, morally grey … and totally irresistable! His unwavering loyalty to both the mission and Violet sparks admiration and heart-flutters alike.
Their slow-burn “enemies to lovers” journey is utterly magnetic. Fans can’t get enough of his smouldering intensity and protective devotion. Apparently, this viral BookTok-powered novel is going to be adapted by Michael B. Jordan’s production company for Amazon and I can’t wait!
MORE: How Your Main Character’s ‘Why’ Powers Your Story
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