3 hours ago
Pierson Fodé’s Shirtless Horse Washing Scene in ‘The Wrong Paris’ Ignites Fan Frenzy
READ TIME: 9 MIN.
In the latest Netflix release, "The Wrong Paris," Pierson Fodé’s now-infamous shirtless horse washing scene has become an instant internet sensation, drawing raves from queer fans and allies alike for its unabashed playfulness and camp appeal. The romantic comedy, starring Fodé alongside Miranda Cosgrove, debuted September 12, 2025, and quickly shot to trending status, thanks in part to this visually arresting, delightfully cheeky sequence that has the internet buzzing .
Set in the heart of Paris, Texas, the film follows Cosgrove’s character as she navigates a dating competition gone awry, only to encounter Fodé’s charming bachelor—a role he approaches with both comedic timing and palpable chemistry. But it’s the horse washing scene, shot in slow motion with Fodé drenched and shirtless, that has emerged as the movie’s breakout moment. Fans have flocked to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, posting clips, memes, and exuberant commentary that celebrate both the actor’s physical appeal and the scene’s self-aware, tongue-in-cheek humor .
Miranda Cosgrove herself acknowledged the scene’s impact in a recent interview, highlighting its campy, “silly and crazy” vibe as one of her favorite elements and noting how such moments allow for playful expression often missing from more serious genres . Fodé echoed her sentiments, expressing appreciation for the freedom rom-coms provide to be “out there and ridiculous,” including the slow-motion horse washing set to humorous music .
For many LGBTQ+ viewers, the scene’s appeal goes beyond surface-level thirst. Its exaggerated, self-aware staging recalls the tradition of queer camp, a style rooted in playful theatricality and the celebration of artifice—a sensibility that has long resonated within LGBTQ+ communities and been championed by icons such as John Waters and RuPaul. By leaning into camp, "The Wrong Paris" delivers not just laughs and romance, but the kind of joyful escapism queer audiences have historically sought in entertainment .
Social media reactions underscore this connection, with fans describing the scene as “raising standards for men,” “feral,” and “the kind of steamy romance that makes you grab your fan.” The movie’s willingness to play with genre conventions—using slow motion, exaggerated physicality, and overtly staged sensuality—has made the sequence a touchstone for viewers who see themselves reflected in its irreverence and celebration of desire .
Fodé’s popularity within queer circles is no accident. He previously starred in queer-centric projects such as the indie rom-com "Jessie," where he played a gay lead, and the cult favorite "Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List," where he further endeared himself to fans seeking authentic and charismatic representation . His openness to diverse roles, two Daytime Emmy nominations for "The Bold and the Beautiful," and frequent engagement with fans via social platforms cement his reputation as an actor who both understands and appreciates the unique energy queer audiences bring to his work .
The embrace of camp and sensuality in "The Wrong Paris" is emblematic of a larger movement within streaming media, where queer representation and sensibility are increasingly integral to mainstream romantic comedies. From the runaway success of "Heartstopper" to the popularity of queer rom-coms like "Fire Island" and "Single All the Way," streaming platforms have recognized the appetite for inclusive, affirming narratives that center joy and visibility .
By casting Fodé, a performer with established queer credentials, in a role that playfully courts the queer gaze, Netflix and the film’s creators signal their understanding of the value of representation—not only in storylines, but in the very fabric of how romance and desire are depicted onscreen. The horse washing scene, with its over-the-top aesthetic and wink to the audience, encapsulates this shift, offering entertainment that is both accessible and resonant for queer viewers .
As fans continue to post reactions and memes, the scene’s viral trajectory highlights the powerful role queer communities play in shaping pop culture discourse. Livestreams, watch parties, and hashtags have proliferated, with users celebrating Fodé’s performance and the film’s embrace of camp. Commentary often notes the scene’s importance not just as eye candy, but as a moment of collective joy—one that invites viewers of all identities to revel in its unapologetic fun .
A post by @ACagedDreamer on X summed up the mood: “Okay but #TheWrongParis is actually a really fun movie. The chemistry between the leads is really great and the romance is pretty solid. Oh, and Pierson Fodé has quite a few shirtless scenes lol.”
