What Now? with Trevor Noah Wesley Morris: How Critics at Large See the Stories We Miss
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Dec 25, 2025 
Trevor Noah chats with Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning film and cultural critic, about the hidden stories in culture. They explore how a haircut by Carlos Alcaraz can overshadow the US Open and the gendered implications of public scrutiny. Morris delves into why blockbuster films avoid human stories, examines the increasing popularity of horror reflecting societal anxieties, and discusses Trump's fascination with museums and their role in shaping narratives. A thought-provoking conversation filled with laughter and insights!
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The Role Of A Critic At Large
- A critic at large sees cultural patterns others miss and links them to deeper societal stories.
- Wesley Morris describes this as connecting trends (like names, hair, films) to what they reveal about identity and power.
Alcaraz’s Buzz Cut Became The Headline
- Carlos Alcaraz's accidental fresh buzz cut at the US Open became the tournament's dominant story instead of his tennis.
- Wesley Morris and guests used the episode to show how appearance can force athletes into unwanted narratives.
Appearance Scrutiny Is Gendered
- Appearance burdens historically fall more on women, so men being forced to explain looks is notable.
- The Alcaraz episode exposed how gendered expectations shape public scrutiny in sports.