Paul Mescal’s ‘slutty’ short shorts make the internet lose all dignity – again
Paul Mescal’s short shorts are making the internet act up again (Getty Images)
Paul Mescal has sent social media users wild again by advocating for – and, more importantly, wearing – very short shorts.
All Of Us Strangers star Mescal is no stranger to a viral moment, whether that’s down to a performance in a gay drama opposite Andrew Scott, an upcoming, sweaty turn in Gladiator 2 or some really, really, really short shorts.
Now, Mescal has capitalised on that last aspect of his internet boyfriend-ability by showcasing some of his very best (and very short) boxer shorts while attending the spring/summer 2025 Gucci show for Milan Fashion Week.
“I’m a fan of the short inseam,” the Normal People told GQ at the event. “From my eye, it’s do with proportion. A shorter short with maybe a longer top. I’m a big advocate for men wearing shorter shorts.”
The statement (and ensuing pictures) have obviously caused fans to react with all the grace and decorum of a reversing dump truck, with one fan writing on social media: “Paul Mescal and his slutty short shorts… it’s something very serious to me.”
Another posted: “Weeping, crying, throwing up, gnawing my teeth, ripping my hair.”
Writing on X/Twitter another said (in what we imagine to be a complimentary way): “This man is such a slut. Who taught him how to button his shirt like that.”
However, someone else issued a stern warning to anyone thinking of copying the star. “Please note, “they wrote, “only Paul Mescal is allowed to wear boxer shorts and loafers in the street as a business casual look. No one else get any ideas.”
Mescal’s shorts also sent the internet into a spiral last October, and the Normal People star told GQ in 2022 that they were his “main personality trait”.
Mescal is next due to star in another gay film, this time opposite Josh O’Connor in The History of Sound, which follows the pair as men living through World War I. It’s due for release late next year.
Before that he plays Lucius in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel, and while there may not be any short shorts, Mescal could appear in a toga – which we’re calling Ancient Rome’s equivalent.
