

Cringe! Why millennials became so uncool
16 snips Aug 22, 2025
Emma Lofhagen, a Guardian journalist and member of the Gen Z panel, dives into the generational rivalry between millennials and Gen Z. The discussion reveals why Gen Z finds millennials cringeworthy, with insights into cultural trends and differences in humor and communication styles. They dissect the 'millennial pause' in social media and how millennials' pursuit of perfection contrasts with Gen Z's authenticity. The conversation also touches on work ethics and cultural perceptions, highlighting the evolving dynamics of intergenerational relationships.
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From Cool Pioneers To 'Cringe' Targets
- Millennials were once seen as digital pioneers but are now framed as 'cringe' by Gen Z through social media mockery.
- The generational shift in online culture reframes previously admired millennial traits as embarrassing.
Delayed Adulthood Due To Crises
- Chloë Hamilton describes delayed adulthood after graduating into the 2008–09 recession and then being derailed again by the pandemic.
- She links those interruptions to a generation-wide slower path to traditional markers like home ownership and marriage.
Feeling Suddenly Out Of Date
- Hamilton recounts noticing she felt 'very old' when Gen Z trends made her feel outdated despite trying to follow fashion.
- She researched others and found many millennials felt similarly surprised by rapid cultural shifts.