Springtime for Schlubby Jewish Guys: A Forward Legend Follows in Seth Rogen’s Footsteps
Former Forward staffer Max Gross is not only my friend. He is also my hero.
When he wasn’t busy writing some of the strangest stories ever published in a Jewish newspaper, Max was kind enough to give Forward readers a glimpse into his exciting personal life. As his not-so-alter ego “the Hapless Jewish Writer,” Max would relate his adventures learning how to cook, playing poker (and even beating the occasional poker ace) and miraculously winning horse races — often in the interest of impressing the fairer sex. Few topics were too private to share. He even wrote about his experiences going to a matchmaker.
Now Max has brought his shtick to his new employer, the New York Post. And for his latest escapade, Max is emulating fellow Jewfro’d schlub “Knocked Up” star Seth Rogen. Max writes:
No one in the world wants you to see the new comedy “Knocked Up” more than I do.
For years I’ve been a schlubby ne’er-do-well sporting an unwieldy Jewfro. I spent nearly three decades fighting off double-chins and man-boobs. My style of dress is an embarrassment to anybody except a stoned college student. But every doofus has his day, and when I saw the smash comedy last week, for a gleaming, shining moment I thought:
Because of Seth Rogen, I’m so getting laid.
The Post devoted almost two full pages (complete with pictures) to Max’s account of his efforts to work his Rogen-esque charms on some lovely ladies. The full story is here.
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
