Former “Today” show host Katie Couric raised eyebrows this week after asking California’s Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom whether being “ridiculously good-looking” has been a challenge for him.
The exchange occurred during an interview on Couric’s “Next Question” podcast, released Thursday.
Couric began by referencing criticism that Newsom is often described as “slick,” suggesting the comment may refer to his well-known hairstyle and polished public image.
Couric References ‘Zoolander’ During Interview
During the discussion, Couric joked that Newsom might suffer from what she called a “Zoolander problem,” referencing the 2001 comedy starring Ben Stiller.
“Do you have a ‘Zoolander’ problem?” Couric asked.
After Newsom laughed, Couric continued pressing the point.
“Are you just ridiculously good-looking, as Vogue said?” she asked.
“No, seriously. What do you do about that?”
Newsom responded by dismissing the idea that his appearance is something he tries to manage.
“You don’t do anything about it,” Newsom said.
“‘Cuz if you’re going to do something about it, then you’re bulls—-ing people.
“You know what? I am who I am.
“And it’s fine. You don’t have to like me.
“Or maybe you like a slick person.
“I don’t know. Whatever. It’s okay.”
Critics Mock the Exchange
The exchange quickly drew criticism from media analysts and commentators.
Many noted that the question reflected a flattering tone toward Newsom that sought to “promote” the California governor.
Tim Graham, executive editor of NewsBusters, criticized the line of questioning.
“This kind of question could be seen as the kind of question a flighty influencer would act, and not some world-class journalist,” Graham said.
“It comes across as highly flattering, like his looks are a great problem to have.
“However, his slickness can be a problem.
“He could come across as smarmy and pompous.”
Graham also suggested the discussion may have been intended to boost both Newsom and Couric’s podcast.
“Couric was probably hoping these kinds of questions would promote him, as well as it would promote her show,” he said.
Social Media Reaction
The interview also sparked criticism on social media.
Conservative commentator Stephen L. Miller wrote:
“He can’t run for President on his record, so they are attempting to fabricate charisma.”
Republican communications strategist Matt Whitlock added:
“Gavin has a serious Beto problem in that the media infatuation with him doesn’t match the record or actual political viability.”
Outkick writer Ian Miller compared the moment to comments from political reporter Chris Cillizza about journalists’ neutrality.
“This reminds me of when Chris Cillizza posted on Twitter, ‘Let me say for the billionth time: Reporters don’t root for a side. Period.’ Absolutely nailed it,” Miller wrote.
New York Post columnist Kirsten Fleming also mocked the exchange, joking:
“His walk-out song at the DNC is going to be ‘I’m too sexy.’”
Vogue Profile Also Drew Attention
Couric’s remarks appeared to reference a recent Vogue profile of Newsom.
The feature described the governor in glowing terms.
The article opened with the line:
“Let’s get this out of the way: He is embarrassingly handsome, his hair seasoned with silver, at ease with his own eminence as he delivers his final State of the State address.”
The profile also attracted criticism online, with commentators arguing that it reflected a favorable media tone toward Newsom.
It comes as Newsom has been widely discussed as the Democrats’ potential 2028 presidential contender.
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