Once considered a sign of weakness, emotional vulnerability is now recognised as one of the strongest things a person can embrace. Opening up with heartfelt words, loving fiercely, and sharing meaningful moments are acts of profound courage. Emotions are not solely reserved for women—men feel just as deeply and are equally capable of expressing their feelings.
For Men’s Mental Health Month this November, we’ve curated a selection of leading men on who wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Modern Family – Phil Dunphy
Being emotionally available is the core of Phil’s–osophy. Phil Dunphy is quirky, charming, and comical; whether he’s telling Claire how much he loves her, having a daddy-daughter day with Alex and Haley, or having a prank war with Luke, Phil is impossible not to love – unless you’re Jay Pritchett.
While Phil has always struggled to win his father-in-law’s approval, one memorable episode saw Phil finally break through Jay’s tough exterior as they made preparations for Claire to celebrate the best Mother’s Day (or so they tried).
The Bear – Carmy
Carmy Berzatto might be one of the most emotionally closed-off characters on The Bear, and that’s what makes his rare, vulnerable moments all the more powerful.
One standout moment is when Carmy finally opens up to Sydney just before the restaurant’s opening – a scene fans affectionately dubbed ‘Fixing the Table.’ As they repair a table (and their rocky relationship), Carmy admits he’s scared about the restaurant’s future, offering a small slither of vulnerability. Sydney starts to understand the complicated paradox that is Carmy, and she respects him more for it.
Grey’s Anatomy – Derek Shepherd
Derek Shepherd wasn’t called McDreamy just for his good looks or intelligence; his open, unwavering love for Meredith is what truly made him unforgettable. Derek and Meredith’s iconic love story is marked by the raw emotion behind every tender, heartbreaking moment.
Derek had always been vulnerable and fully transparent with his feelings, and we’re certain that this character trait is what made him a fan favourite. In fact, many remember – and could probably cite word for word – his declaration of love in season three, where he tearfully tells Meredith how deeply he cares – that she is the love of his life, despite her struggles to reciprocate his feelings.
Abbott Elementary – Gregory Eddie
Gregory Eddie is your classic no-nonsense, by-the-book guy. He even thinks pizza is too fun. Yet it’s Gregory’s rare, small gestures of affection that make him so incredibly charming. When he does show his emotions, he can melt even the coldest of hearts.
There are plenty of memorable Gregory moments, but a standout is when he remembers Janine’s favourite movie, telling her how seriously he takes her recommendations and that he wants to know why she likes things. It’s hard to read Gregory’s intentions sometimes, but his subtle smiles and willingness to try new things (yes, even pizza) for Janine would make anyone swoon.
Way to go, Gregory!
Gangnam B-Side – Yoon Gilho
In the glamorous streets of Gangnam, Gangnam B-Side takes viewers beyond the glitter to a darker underworld ruled by Yoon Gilho. Known for his fur coats, silver rings, and sharp temper, Gilho may seem like just another ruthless, eccentric gangster. But beneath his tough exterior lies a surprisingly compassionate side, especially when it comes to “his girls.”
A bad boy with a tender heart, Gilho’s protective instincts shine in the very first episode when he discovers that one of his escorts was drugged and immediately removes her from harm, tracking down the dealer responsible. From then on, he shows an unexpected tenderness, protecting his escorts in a world that seems to mercilessly target them.
The Fiery Priest Season Two – Father Kim Haeil
Kim Haeil is a Catholic priest with an unorthodox style. While he has the integrity and good heart you’d expect from a priest, his temper leaves much to be desired. Yet, like many complex men, his softer, more affectionate side remains to be fully revealed.
In the highly anticipated second season of The Fiery Priest, Kim Haeil returns to his roots when a young altar boy collapses from a drug overdose during a memorial service at Gudam Cathedral. Teaming up with his loyal crew, he goes undercover to uncover the dark secrets of the criminal underworld.
Love Your Enemy – Seok Jiwon
Seok Jiwon and Yoon Jiwon, born on the same day and sharing the same name, have been rivals for as long as they can remember. After spending 18 years apart, fate reunites them as they find themselves as staff at the Dokmok High School.
After finding himself face-to-face with Yoon Jiwon one too many times, Seok Jiwon is forced to confront the fact that maybe the line between love and hate is thinner than he thought, and beneath his hard exterior, an old flame threatens to rekindle with his former lover.
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