Former Rep. Matt Gaetz stirred controversy Friday when he welcomed fellow disgraced politician George Santos to his new primetime show, sparking a wave of negative social media reactions. The episode became the subject of online ridicule as users compared the two men, particularly focusing on their similar appearances and their shared history of scandals.
Gaetz, who debuted his show with a noticeably different appearance that raised eyebrows, was quickly the target of speculation. His facial changes—specifically his altered skin and features—led to widespread debate, with some suggesting the use of plastic surgery or cosmetic enhancements. Onlookers pointed to his appearance on the show’s premiere the day before, with many online commenting on what they saw as an unflattering makeup job, while others claimed evidence of Botox.
Plastic surgeons noted that Gaetz, 42, exhibited signs of Botox use, months after similar comments were made by Daily Show correspondent Desi Lydic. Lydic had previously suggested that Gaetz’s transformation might be due to plastic surgery, a theory that gained traction following the show’s debut.
Santos, who himself became embroiled in controversy in 2023 after an investigation revealed he had misused campaign funds for personal items—including cosmetics and Botox—was quick to offer his expertise when asked by Gaetz. The former New York representative, who was expelled from Congress for a series of scandals, appeared eager to share beauty tips with his fellow embattled Republican.
During the show, Santos, 36, lightheartedly commented on Gaetz’s appearance, claiming concern after seeing the congressman’s face with arched eyebrows and what some viewers likened to a “wax-like” complexion. He quipped, “I thought you had botched Botox or something.” Santos, known for his past drag persona “Kitara,” proceeded to offer advice, suggesting Gaetz avoid certain makeup techniques, such as highlighting the center of his face, which he claimed made Gaetz’s eyes appear smaller.
The exchange, though lighthearted in tone, sparked further online mockery. Some social media users humorously criticized the two men, with one sarcastically asking if Santos was teaching Gaetz how to cross-dress. Others used the opportunity to call for both men to be jailed, while some ridiculed the quality of Gaetz’s show, suggesting that the low production value reflected its inability to afford professional makeup artists.
Despite the growing chatter, Gaetz has not publicly confirmed any cosmetic procedures. However, the debate over his appearance intensified in the wake of Lydic’s satirical segment on The Daily Show, where she speculated that Gaetz’s newfound look was part of an attempt to appear younger and more appealing to a certain demographic. Lydic’s comments about Botox, fillers, and potential surgical procedures quickly gained traction, and plastic surgeons have echoed similar opinions.
Dr. Christopher Costa, a plastic surgeon in Las Vegas, observed that Gaetz’s appearance suggested an “over-treatment” with neurotoxins like Botox, possibly beyond the typical dosage. Dr. Michael Persky and Dr. Paul Rosenberg, both reputable plastic surgeons, also weighed in, noting that Gaetz’s expressions, such as eyebrow movements, appeared artificially enhanced due to excessive Botox injections.
While Gaetz has denied any allegations of sexual misconduct, the public debate about his appearance continues to unfold. His new show, The Matt Gaetz Show, airs weeknights on primetime, and it seems that his cosmetic choices will remain a focal point in the ongoing conversation about his political and public image.
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