Cosmo India's favourite "men written by women"

We’ve all heard of the trope “men written by women.” There’s something unmistakably distinct about them—a sensitivity, a depth, a break from the conventional. These are men who understand that, despite the world’s expectations for them to be stoic and unyielding, they are human at the end of the day. They wear their hearts on their sleeves, strive to be better versions of themselves, and treat the women around them with respect—not out of obligation, but from genuine conviction. 

And who better to write such men than women themselves? They rise to the occasion not just as lovers, but also as brothers, fathers, sons, and friends. This Men’s Day, we're all about celebrating the underrated men created by female authors and screenwriters—who truly deserve the world for the gentlemen they are. 

Noah from Nobody Wants This

We’ve been obsessed with Nobody Wants Us for some time now, and for good reason. Lindsay Golder hits the mark with her portrayal of Noah, a rabbi who, despite his many flaws, stands out for his exceptional communication skills, ability to show up, conflict resolution, and heartfelt apologies. Our love and appreciation for him is so strong that “the Noah effect” has started to creep into pop culture lingo.

Benedict Bridgerton from Bridgerton  

Benedict Bridgerton has been a favourite of ours from the very beginning, and with good reason. He is the least judgmental of all the brothers, not to mention, a very loving and supportive brother to Eloise. But it is his family-oriented nature and free spirit that make this Julia Quinn character one of the most loved Bridgerton characters in the series. And with Bridgerton Season 5 in the works—which will focus on Benedict—we can't help but imagine how dreamy his romance with Sophie Beckett will be.

Yogi from Qarib Qarib Singlle  

Irrfan Khan’s Yogi is not your typical Bollywood hero. Yet, in his eccentric style, Yogi wins your heart and teaches you that love is not just about candlelit dinners and romantic dates; its the little acts of care that matter too. Tanuja Chandra’s road film is a refreshing break from conventional romance movies, and our witty yet occasionally annoying forty-something hero perfectly embodies the “written by women” trope.  

Varun Srivastava from Lootera  

One of the most memorable films in the careers of Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha, this O Henry adaptation beautifully explores the power of love and hope. Bhavani Iyer’s screenplay sees Varun Srivastava evolve from a conning thief to a selfless lover seeking redemption for his past. After breaking Pakhi’s heart at her wedding, he re-enters her life for a heist. This time, however, he stays back for her, doing whatever it takes to restore her faith in living, and leaves only when she is better, asking for nothing in return. 

Dr Jehangir from Dear Zindagi

If Benedict Bridgerton is a green flag, then Shah Rukh Khan's Dr Jehangir Khan is a lush green forest. Gauri Shinde’s film did a lot to promote discussions on mental health in India, which is in most part, credited to how well Dr Jehangir aka Jug's character is written. Jug is neither a romantic hero nor the film’s main character, but the emotional maturity of this unconventional therapist and the simplicity of his advice make him an unforgettable favourite. 

Graham Simpkins from The Holiday  

Jude Law's Graham is a book editor and single father who openly admits he cries at the drop of a hat, but he rises to the occasion when it comes to protecting his family. A good brother, a devoted father, and a hopeless romantic in touch with his emotions, Graham is careful not to let his love life affect his daughters’ lives. He is everything one could wish for in a partner. 

Ben from The Intern  

In another Nancy Meyers film, Robert De Niro plays Ben Whittaker, a seventy-year-old widower who, despite having experienced it all, joins a fashion website as a senior intern to find a sense of purpose. Ben's unwavering enthusiasm and charming demeanour immediately uplift those around him. He delights in learning new things—like Mandarin—not for any grand purpose, but for the sheer joy of it. By the end of the film, you can’t help but wish for a wise old uncle like him in your life.  

The Priest from Fleabag

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s dark comedy features some of the most gut-wrenching characters, and The Priest, played by Andrew Scott, is no exception. Among all the characters, he is the only one who truly values Fleabag as a person from the very beginning, even noticing her fourth-wall breaks. Though he is afraid of love and continues to run from it, his heartfelt monologue on the courage it takes to love someone, delivered at Fleabag’s parents’ wedding, cements his place as one of the show’s most vulnerable and memorable characters.  

Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird  

A major reason Harper Lee's classic remains beloved is Atticus Finch. As Scout’s father, Atticus stands out in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the 1930s for his unshakable values. He cares little for what others think of him, prioritising the lessons he imparts to his children over societal approval. While his defence of Tom Robinson is the most obvious example, his character shines in subplots, such as when he teaches Jem the true meaning of courage by asking him to comfort the dying Mrs Dubose despite her lifelong hostility.  

Connell Waldron in Normal People  

Connell, at first, comes across as a young man consumed by insecurities, but as the story unfolds, his struggles and growth strike a chord with readers and viewers alike. Sally Rooney’s character feels painfully human, as his mistakes and fears mirror those of many at his age. Though his actions might be difficult to forgive, his efforts, vulnerability, and self-awareness make him one of the most compelling characters Rooney has written.  

Lead image credit: Netflix 

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