Bill Ackman’s Dating Advice Goes Viral, Sparks Backlash Online
UPDATE: Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman has ignited a viral controversy over his unexpected dating advice aimed at young men struggling to connect with women. The founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, valued at approximately $9.3 billion, took to social media platform X to share what he deemed “old-fashioned wisdom,” but the response has been anything but what he anticipated.
Ackman, age 58, expressed concern about young men feeling isolated in today’s dating culture. He stated, “As such, I thought I would share a few words that I used in my youth to meet someone that I found compelling.” His advice? A simple, yet formal, “May I meet you?”—a phrase he claims made his approach “almost never got a No.”
However, Ackman’s intentions quickly turned into a meme-fueled frenzy as users on X transformed his phrase into a source of laughter and ridicule. Thousands of posts have surfaced, showcasing awkward social scenarios paired with his advice. One viral post featured comedian Shane Gillis staring uncomfortably into the camera, capturing the essence of social awkwardness many associate with the phrase.
One user humorously quipped, “May I meet you first thing Monday morning to talk about your performance improvement plan?” highlighting the formality and perceived inappropriateness of Ackman’s advice. The internet’s reaction underscores a broader cultural dialogue around dating and social interactions today.
This unexpected backlash coincides with Ackman’s rising prominence beyond the financial realm. Known for his vocal support of conservative causes, he has become a notable figure within the MAGA movement. His hedge fund, which manages around $16 billion in assets, has captured Wall Street’s attention for its high-profile investments in firms like Chipotle and Herbalife.
Ackman’s dating advice has sparked significant conversation about the changing dynamics of modern relationships, particularly among younger generations. As young men navigate a complex social landscape, Ackman’s advice serves as a reminder of how traditional approaches may not resonate in today’s context.
The hedge fund manager, who married designer Neri Oxman in 2019 after divorcing landscape architect Karen Herskovitz, continues to be a polarizing figure in both finance and social commentary. His comments come at a time when dating trends are evolving, with recent studies showing that factors like social media and political affiliations are influencing modern romance.
As the conversation surrounding Ackman’s advice continues to unfold online, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact discussions about dating norms and expectations. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as reactions pour in from across the internet.
