Updated

Updated · Instinct Magazine · May 24

Jason Momoa's Poolside Post Triggers Bulge Frenzy Ahead of June 26 Supergirl Release

Updated

Updated · Instinct Magazine · May 24

Jason Momoa's Poolside Post Triggers Bulge Frenzy Ahead of June 26 Supergirl Release

Q: Does Jason Momoa's viral fame defy new study findings that the 'dad bod' trend is now over?

Not necessarily. Jason Momoa’s viral reaction suggests the “dad bod” appeal is not dead, even if one new study points to a broader shift toward leaner male physiques. The study cited in the additional material, published in May 2026, found that women generally preferred a lean, athletic build of about 15% body fat over softer “dad bod” types. That contrasts with earlier polls from Planet Fitness in 2018 and Dating.com in 2021, which reported stronger support for the dad-bod look. So the evidence points less to a settled verdict than to changing and mixed preferences. Momoa’s case is also unusual. His poolside photos went viral not simply because of body type, but because of his overall public image: confidence, charisma, rugged masculinity, humor, and a reputation as grounded and approachable. Fans praised his “realistic attractiveness” and “wild, relaxed” look, showing that celebrity appeal often goes beyond narrow body-fat categories. That matters because attraction is broader than a single physique metric. Even the added reporting notes that dad-bod perceptions can be linked to warmth, confidence, and long-term partner appeal. Momoa appears to benefit from exactly those qualities, along with his environmental advocacy, Hawaiian heritage, and high-profile screen work. So his viral fame does not disprove the study, but it does show the trend is not absolute. A celebrity with Momoa’s persona can still turn a softer, less sculpted look into a major cultural moment.

2 articles · Updated · Instinct Magazine · May 24

Poolside photos Jason Momoa shared online set off a wave of social-media reaction, with comments fixating on a visible bulge beneath his swimwear rather than the actor's relaxed look.
The post quickly spread across fan accounts and comment threads, where users zeroed in on the image and turned it into a viral thirst-discourse moment.
Momoa's latest burst of attention comes as he stars in HBO Max's "On the Roam," a travel docuseries built around craftspeople, musicians, athletes and motorcycle culture.
June 26 marks his next major film release in "Supergirl," with "Street Fighter" also due October 16, keeping him in the spotlight beyond the latest viral post.

Sources

Instinct Magazine26d ago

Jason Momoa's Swimwear Bulge Sparks Internet Reaction.

tiktok.com26d ago

Jason Momoa & Lola: Matching Shades at The Bikeriders Premiere | TikTok

Can Momoa's personal popularity help DC's 'Supergirl' overcome its box office struggles this summer?

Does Jason Momoa's viral fame defy new study findings that the 'dad bod' trend is now over?

How will Jason Momoa's advocacy influence Hawaii's multi-billion dollar recovery from devastating recent storms?

Sources

2 total

Instinct Magazine26d ago

Jason Momoa's Swimwear Bulge Sparks Internet Reaction.

tiktok.com26d ago

Jason Momoa & Lola: Matching Shades at The Bikeriders Premiere | TikTok

Jason Momoa's Poolside Post Triggers Bulge Frenzy Ahead of June 26 Supergirl Release

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