A recent study from UCLA sheds light on the evolving media consumption habits and content preferences of Generation Z, challenging common perceptions held by older generations. This cohort, ranging from early teens to mid-twenties, demonstrates a sustained appreciation for traditional forms of visual entertainment such as movies and television series. Interestingly, a significant finding highlights their desire for a reduction in overtly sexual and romantic storylines within these narratives. Instead, Gen Z shows a strong inclination towards depictions of authentic, platonic friendships and more nuanced, reality-driven relationship dynamics. This preference indicates a deeper search for content that genuinely mirrors their personal experiences and fosters a sense of relatable connection.
For many parents from the Gen X and Millennial demographics, preconceived notions often paint Gen Z as perpetually tethered to digital screens, engaging primarily with fleeting, bite-sized content like short-form videos. However, the 2025 Teens and Screens annual report from UCLA's Center for Scholars & Storytellers offers a more comprehensive and somewhat unexpected picture. The report indicates that a substantial 57% of young people consume more traditional media than their parents estimate, and they are more likely to discuss these shows and films with peers than viral social media clips. Furthermore, despite the ongoing challenges faced by the cinema industry post-pandemic, attending movies with friends emerged as a top weekend activity for Gen Z, underscoring their continued engagement with theatrical experiences.
A pivotal insight from the study emphasizes Gen Z's clear message regarding on-screen relationships. They express weariness with formulaic romantic arcs and a general overabundance of sexual content. A notable 54% of surveyed youth advocated for different-gendered characters to prioritize their companionship over transitioning into romantic entanglements. Moreover, nearly half (48.4%) believe there is excessive sexual content in current television and movies, with an even larger majority (60.9%) wishing for romantic portrayals to emphasize the foundational friendship between partners rather than physical intimacy. This collective sentiment suggests a yearning for narratives that delve into the intricacies of human connection beyond conventional romantic tropes.
Alisha Hines, Vice President of Research and Programs at the Center for Scholars & Storytellers, articulated this trend, stating that Gen Z is overtly communicating their fatigue with contrived and unrealistic romantic narratives. The research consistently points to a demand for content, characters, and friendships that resonate with authenticity and accurately reflect their daily lives. This desire for realism extends to their broader social behaviors; Gen Z, shaped by a more sheltered upbringing and the isolation of the 2020 pandemic, exhibits different patterns compared to previous generations, including reduced participation in traditional partying, lower alcohol consumption, and a distinct approach to sexual activity. These factors contribute to a generation experiencing heightened anxiety and feelings of loneliness, which, in turn, fuels their craving for profound and meaningful friendships, both in their personal lives and in the entertainment they consume.
Ultimately, the UCLA report underscores a significant cultural shift in what young audiences seek from their entertainment. Gen Z's call for less emphasis on conventional romance and sex, coupled with a stronger desire for authentic friendships and realistic depictions, signals a profound longing for stories that resonate with their lived experiences and offer genuine human connection. This generation is actively shaping the future of media, advocating for content that is not only engaging but also reflective of a more complex and nuanced understanding of relationships and the world around them.