Marc Fennell is heading into the online world of the manosphere for a new documentary exploring its influence on a generation of boys and young men.
The three-part ABC series follows the algorithms, influencers and industries behind the movement, after a personal experience at home prompted Fennell to investigate where the online rabbit holes can lead.
Announced as part of the ABC’s 2026 programming slate in November last year, The State of Man follows Fennell as he investigates the online world of the manosphere and its influence on modern masculinity.
Best known for the ABC series Stuff the British Stole and as host of SBS’ quiz show Mastermind, Fennell is also behind the ABC podcast series No One Saw It Coming, which explores the unexpected events that have shaped history.
His latest project takes that focus into the online world, examining how algorithms and influencers can shape the way young men view themselves and the world around them.
The investigation began with a moment at home, when Fennell discovered online recommendations had led his children from Pokémon videos to manosphere content.
That experience prompted Fennell to follow the same algorithmic trails young men can encounter online, tracing how content around fitness, finance and self-improvement can lead towards increasingly extreme and divisive ideas.
As Fennell follows the trail deeper into the manosphere, the documentary examines the influencers, platforms and industries behind the movement, including the commercial interests operating within the online space.
The series also looks at the impact of these ideas beyond the screen, particularly on girls and women, while exploring the broader consequences for families, relationships and society.
The State of Man is produced by Helium Pictures and New Mac Production in association with the ABC, with development assistance and production funding from Minderoo Pictures.
Screen NSW supported post-production, digital and visual effects, while VicScreen provided development assistance.
