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October 26th, 2010
04:13 PM ET
Plus-sized article spurs heavy debateBefore you even ask, yes I am plus-sized. That’s germane because I am anticipating the comments given the massive discussion an article I wrote has generated. It all started so innocently with me and some colleagues discussing the new show “Mike & Molly” which stars a pair of overweight actors and why when characters are big it’s such a huge deal. So I did some reporting and wrote a piece titled “Weight is a big deal for TV, movie characters.” I steeled myself for the comments. It wasn’t the first time that I had weighed in on an issue dealing with overweight people and I knew that readers could be brutal.
And some of them were. “I will not watch a show with FAT people,” wrote a commenter named Mountbyte. “Flipping through the channel I stumbled across "Biggest Loser". It truly disgusted me. These shows are gross.” But that was just the beginning. Marie Claire.com writer Maura Kelly picked up on the story and penned a piece titled “Should "Fatties" Get a Room? (Even on TV?)” In it, Kelly references the original article which touched on some viewer’s lack of comfort at witnessing intimacy between a super-sized couple and shares her thoughts of the larger segment of society. “So anyway, yes, I think I'd be grossed out if I had to watch two characters with rolls and rolls of fat kissing each other ... because I'd be grossed out if I had to watch them doing anything,” Kelly writes. “To be brutally honest, even in real life, I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room — just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroine addict slumping in a chair.” To say Marie Claire readers were upset would be an understatement. “This is disgusting,” wrote one reader using the name “Greeba.” Not fat people. But your attitude toward them. Do you think all of the people who read your magazine are a size 6?” Then Jezebel got into the discussion by writing “What Was Marie Claire Thinking With This “Fatties” Piece?” by Sadie Stein about the article and the fallout. “Now, I must admit that as a blogger, you can't help but cringe for someone at the bottom of a pile-on — especially since, inevitably, a percentage of the commenters take the low road and get personal,” Stein writes. “But beyond thinking this stuff which is, of course, between her and her conscience, how could she not know this would happen? How could she think this was acceptable?” What do you think? Are people being too hard on the Marie Claire writer? We here at CNN.com had no idea that a little article about a big issue would spur so much conversation and debate. But we love that folks are discussing topics like body image, self esteem and perception. As a matter of fact, we love it like a fat kid loves cake. UPDATE: 10/27 1:23 p.m. Marie Claire blogger Maura Kelly has updated her post to apologize and the magazine's editor-in-chief, Joanna Coles, has also spoken out on the controversy. "I would really like to apologize for the insensitive things I've said in this post," Kelly wrote. "Believe it or not, I never wanted anyone to feel bullied or ashamed after reading this, and I sorely regret that it upset people so much." Coles told Fashionista that the magazine has received more than 28,000 e-mail responses to the piece. “Maura Kelly is a very provocative blogger,” Coles said. “She was an anorexic herself and this is a subject she feels very strongly about.” |
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In my experience, people who hate fat people are just hateful people in general. In fact, they are some of the most hateful people I know. I am overweight and I've seen the "looks", but people who don't know me don't know that I've lost 70 pounds. Anything I do to change the behavior that made me fat is criticized with "why does she bother going to the gym...she's fat" or "what is that fat person doing at this restaurant". Seriously? They hate that I'm fat, but seem to want and expect that I stay that way! Why? Just so they have someone to mock so that they feel better about themselves? I mean, who better to be at a gym than someone that needs to lose weight?!?!? Luckily I have a thick skin(no pun intended) so I just ignore the negativity. Besides, I would rather be fat than have a cold, hateful heart!
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This whole thing is so ridiculous!!.. Personally, I think "Mike & Molly" is the most refreshing....funniest...heartwarming show on the TV this season! I'd rather watch them than some idiot couples racing around the world....or some other idiots voting each other off of an island!! Hooray for "CBS and "Mike & Molly" I hope to be able to watch them for many more years!!!!
Look, the hard truth is that the majority of Americans are overweight, and a larger proportion are now obese as well. Sorry to bust your bubble, but being obese, and even overweight, is not natural 99.9999999% of the time. It is not healthy, and the fact that people continuously try to gain acceptance like it is some sort of disability similar to Down Syndrome or Parkinson's is pathetic. People complain all the time about how super-skinny model types are a bad influence on girls and their self esteem. To that degree, I argue that fat people and their never-ending goal to achieve acceptance is just as bad of an influence, if not worse.
To be perfectly honest, I used to be fat. But I got off of my lazy ass, started riding my bike and working out, and stopped eating crap like pizza and burgers every day and also quit drinking soda. Now I'm fit and I feel good physically and mentally, much better than I did when I was overweight and continuously tried to rationalize it.
Knowing that the blogger was annorexic does give her comments a little bit of perspective, but I still don't think people are being too hard on her. Someone has to stop people like her from making sweeping generalizations about fat people and health.
Yes. Because calling plus size people "gross fatties" will really make them want to loose weight. Ya-freakin-right. If anything it is making it worse and causing more weight gain, more eating disorders, and possibly more suicide attempts.
Yes, I like black people! 🙂
I've never once read the magazine Marie Claire. I do watch the show Mike and Molly. I love McCarthy in this role, as I loved her as Sookie on the Gilmore Girls. The others actors are very good, too. That is the point. They are great actors, no matter their size. You're trying to start controversy where there is none. You've rattled the bigots out of the walls, including yourself– people who hate fat people and people who hate skinny people. Everyone has a spokesperson. If you don't like to see fat people, turn off the show, and if you don't like skinny people, don't watch. That sends a message the tv producers understand beautifully. The above mentioned show is doing pretty well. The actors are great!
As someone who has just recently lost a significant amount of weight, I KNOW it's not easy to take it off. It requires a hell of a lot of willpower, which is probably the most difficult part. Once you have the motivation, it just becomes part of your lifestyle.
I don't think obesity or fatness is anything to be celebrated or promoted – while I won't say that I'm "grossed out", so to speak, I know from personal experience that it is a lifestyle choice and you have all the resources available to make a personal change. It actually costs less to eat healthily; streets are free to run and water is free, so when you look at it from that perspective, you're actually PAYING to be overweight, not to mention the additional money you'll be spending on medical bills, prescriptions and over-the-counter anti-fatigue medications! You could spend $2.99 on a Big Mac for lunch or swap it for 2-3lbs of fruit that would last you a week.
I know food is an addiction, and just like any other addiction, it can be battled and eventually won with the right mindset and willpower. I KNOW it's not easy, but yes, it is a choice. I am up at 4:45am every morning for a P90X workout with my roommate. YES its difficult some mornings but the results I've seen and the increased energy I have makes it so worthwhile. Eventually you will train your body to know when you miss a workout or when you eat too much chocolate cake, and it tells you – you feel downright AWFUL and wish you had that fruit instead.
Aren't fat people supposed to be jolly? Why are all you fatties so angry about the jokes?
With regard to the Marie Claire "blogger:" Marie Clarie isn't your blog. You are ruining the image of your magazine with your garbage. Why do you even have a job? If you want to post that crap do it on your facebook.
Don't worry you will all get fat, bald, and wrinkly..age is the great equalizer!
Weight is not always a controlled thing. Yes if you are overweight for eating to much, that is controlled. But sitting here debating whether a so-called fat person is worth knowing or looking at is plain childish. We all have had thoughts that we felt that are not nice or that are considered rude but the difference is.. There are those who are mature enough to know when something can offend or hurt someone. Obesity is an issue. But those people that are obese have hearts and emotions as well. Calling them names and degrading them makes you the fool. Before you judge someone you need to take a look in the mirror. NOONE and I mean NOONE is perfect. Perfection is obsolete.. Get over yourself if you think calling people names and degrading them is a good thing. Grow up and realize we live in an imperfect society. But guess what weight doesn't mean that what they have in the inside isn't worth getting to know. You will miss a lot in life if you only read a book because you like the cover. It is called common courtesy.. Something that gets pushed to the side alot of times.. We are all human.. Stop being so hateful and wasting time spreading your hate and instead take that time you would take to write down that insult (that you know you would not share to someone's face) and write down a positive thing that could be shared. Get over yourself in other words.
When I was in high school I was a star athlete and I was a bit heavier, up to about a size 14. I actually received a full athletic scholarship to a top university and yes I was still uncomfortable with my weight. But, I was surprised when we started our workouts for the upcoming season, I actually ran laps around a few of the skinnier girls!!! 🙂
So many haters.. Do you actually think before you type?
Re: Post from – Margaret
"Funny... I remember a show that was very popular a decade ago and stared a couple of over-weight folks... It was called "Roseanne".....
This is not the first time overweight characters have been on TV... Why is it such a big deal now?"
Ditto. That was my first thought too.
My concern with shows featuring overweight actors is that being overweight/obese is unhealthy. We have limited exposure of other unhealthy behaviors on television, so why should obesity be any different? We have learned that depicting smokers on TV encouraged kids to smoke and thus people are no longer able to smoke on primetime TV. The same can be said for drinking excessively and abusing drugs.
The same can be said for shows that depict actors that are underweight. Being underweight is also unhealthy and kids should not be lead to think that they should look like that either.
Concerned Nurse
I like fatties. I like to go out to the clubs, find the one with the lowest self-esteem, and chat her up. You could tell her that her ring finger looks good and she'd eat it (pardon the pun) up. Then you go to her home and ask to do unspeakable things and she says yes because she's so thrilled to have a man's interest. After she has fallen asleep, I slip out of bed and take a dump on the floor of her living room and leave. Then she never forgets me.
does anyone really like black people? i know i dont
no one likes black people. fat black people are even worse. ew
fat people are gross. especially fat black poop skinned people. they get enough food stamps
Hey Hastur...no, it's not morally ok to force "shame and/or derision" onto other people. Would you like someone to shame or deride you for things about you that they may find wrong? There is such a thing called "karma". Look it up please. Because bullying–and that's what you're advocating–can absolutely lead to suicide. Or do you live under a rock?
people who are overweight should die. they are disgusting to look at. no one likes you and thinks you're attractive. overweight american citizens should kill themselves
I may be obese, I may not be obese. I may be anorexic, I may not be anorexic. I may be a “perfect size 8” or I may not.
LOL.. It’s so funny how so many feel the need to preference their ‘size’ prior to commenting. How about just comment on the article.?.
In response to Jeff who says “My issue with shows depicting obesse people is that they are normalizing a problem in our society. The US obseity problem needs to be addressed as a diease, which it is. I do not think that it should be in front of our kids, who do watch TV and saying that being that way is ok.”
**
Let’s think about this, a show that depicts fat people is normalizing a problem in our society. Hmm, I wonder if there have been shows that depict crime (Law & Order, Hill Street Blues, Dragnet, etc..) or how about shows that depict divorce (Two and a half men, Reba, etc..) or how about the over indulgence of teens (shall I name all the shows on MTV or VH1?)
Let’s get real about your comments. It doesn’t have to have anything to do with “our society problems”. It has to do with you and your poor relation (obviously perceived from your post) with your step father. It has to do with your lack of understanding and/or compassion to anyone who is probably “not like you”.
In response to Millywho says “Yeah, that Maura Kelly looks like Donkey on Shrek with that nose and them teeth! I think it would be "aesthetically displeasing" to see her kissing ANYBODY (teeth so big, she might chew your lips off)! If my choice was to look like Maura or have a few extra pounds I would choose the latter!”
**Have you ever thought that you may not be the most attractive person yourself? I mean beauty does come from within and based on the way you speak, I think you may need to look in the mirror
In response to trish becker who says “I am a small woman but I am offended in a BIG way when I hear anyone being nasty about someones size. As for the Marie Claire writer, she should be ashamed. If she thinks fat is gross, how does she feel about the impossibly thin models purging in the toilet? She needs to get over herself and eat a cheeseburger. How could she be so mean?”
**Our society believes that at whatever cost it takes to be thin, is the right way. I like your post though
In response to Glenn who says “It would seem that my wife is right, overweight people are the only group in America where it's ok for them to be prejudiced against.”
This is true. If you are gay, you are ‘born that way’. If you are of a different ‘color’ you are protected. Heck, even if you are a drug addict or alcoholic you are protected and even given treatment (and most insurance policies pay for coverage). But because of a different body image, “fat” people are assumed to lazy or dirty or just gross.
Seems to me, we should all be looking at ourselves and making a change on the way we perceive anyone. No one is perfect, and as they say.. ‘If we are all the same, what fun would that be?’
all fat people are worthless and disgusting. we should put them on an island and bomb it with double cheeseburgers
I'm not sure how this Kelly lady is any different from Juan Williams.
I LOVE how every time an article like this comes out, there are no honest overweight people who post, its always genetics, thyroid or some other excuse that is out of their control, lets be honest with ourselves. I'm overweight because I enjoy red meat and beer and I'm not physically active. I should be, I'd like to say I'll start, but who knows
No you won't and you know it. The only running you'll ever do is running to the table when the dinner bell rings. I'm glad you're honest though. I'm skinny, wanna be my fat sidekick?
Overweight people deserve the same acceptance and compassion that anyone with a serious health issue deserves. The truth is that in spite of being able to accept themselves as they are most people with a serious weight problem would be happier if they could reach a healthy weight.
The larger you get the smaller your world becomes. Let me explain by using myself as an example. When I was in my twenties I was an avid skydiver, wind surfer, and roller-coaster enthusiast. In my early thirties I began gaining weight and by the time I was 40 I weighed 350 pounds. The first thing i had to give up was the skydiving because even with the largest chutes available my landing were getting harder and harder. The trainer in my club suggested I ask NASA if they had any left over chutes from Apollo. I had to give up roller-coasters when i could no longer safely latch the restraints. By the time I hit 350 I was always ankle deep in the water when I tried to wind surf. My consolation for giving up these things I loved was to eat more. Thankfully I was able to turn the situation around six years ago so that now I am a healthy 205 pound weight lifter and able to enjoy many activities without restriction. The point is, no matter how happy overweight people claim they are their definition of happiness is smaller and more restricted that of normal weight persons. They deserve sympathy and help to regain the world they are giving up.
“Maura Kelly is a very provocative blogger,” Coles said. “She was an anorexic herself and this is a subject she feels very strongly about.”
Oh yeah, we all know it is much more desirable to be an unhealthy anorexic in this society (using health care $$$, having heart problems, needing hospitalization, etc etc), rather than be an unhealthy fat person ::sarcasm::
I love all the "woe is me" stuff from the fat people.
(And yes I've been fat before and lost almost 100 pounds over a couple years to get to a health BMI)
Truth time. Everyone who's fat wants to think its not their fault. Most of them are wrong.
A very small fraction of fat people are fat because of glands, medical disorders, or mental illness.
The rest of us just consume more calories than we burn in a day and have bodies that are very adept at converting this to stored energy.
You know what's worse than an idiot spouting off that seeing someone's fat rolls disgust her?
A bunch of fat people trying to convince themselves that the person in question is the bad person because they "can't help" being fat. You know what's even worse? Acting like being fact is somehow akin to being born an African American or without legs.
Unless you're medically diagnosed as having thyroid problems, etc., you have no excuse for being fat. My life improved when I quit making excuses and started making progress.
Bunch of whiny cry babies. oh, woe is me.... your feelings are offended. Go ahead and have another bucket of KFC... I'm sure it will make you feel better.
I think the FDA needs to be disbanded, and replaced with an organization concerned with the health of Americans. Most of the obesity in the U.S. today is the result of the bad foods available to most of us. Eating natural, healthy foods is very expensive. My wife and I pass on a lot of other luxuries so that we can eat good foods. Average and below-average income Americans are stuck eating foods laced with things like corn syrup, preservatives, growth horomones, etc.
I find it hard to believe that anyone believes Americans have such high rates of obesity because "we're lazy." This is one of the hardest working nations on the planet, with probably more hours of exercise per capita than any other industrialized nation. But we – the "bread basket" of the world – are stuck with some of the lowest-quality foods on the planet. The Monsantos and Krafts, etc., of the world are conspiring against our health, resulting in drastically higher health costs (ridiculous diabetes rates in the U.S., cancers, etc.), and the FDA just lets it happen.
By placing prohibitive taxes on processed foods, corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and growth-horomone laced foods, we could drastically reduce the nation's healthcare costs. Its about time the military steps in and does something about the domestic terrorists in the FDA.
I don't get how she can claim she never wanted anyone to feel ashamed after the horrendous statements she made about overweight people. Just because she received backlash she is trying to pretend she never meant the hurtful words? Too little too late lady.
My opinion is that if you are fat, you should try to lose weight. Not only is it undesirable (as any honest person will tell you, they would rather be with someone who tries to take care of themselves, than an inactive couch potato), but it's unhealthy and a serious blow to the ol' confidence department. I know when I take care of myself, I feel good about myself, which allows me the confidence to contribute to society. If your a fatty, and it is because you lack self control (and not because of a preexisting health condition), lose some weight. Stop blaming other people for YOU being unattractive...I think it's also very funny how may overweight people keep saying "it's because I have _______". The truth is, you have that condition b/c you are already over weight and about 99% of the people who say that don't have any such conditions. I may never have the body of a Swiss Supermodel, but I go to the gym 3 times a week and stay away from sweets...and surprise! It seems to be working.... (: lol
The glorification of obesity makes me sick. The envelope keeps being pushed every day in this country. And don't ever say that a woman who is a size 6 has health problems. Since when?
Lisa: From one 'plus sized' person to another: You're fat. So am I. Now, that said, could you have possibly have placed one more pun in this article? I can't believe CNN posted this garbage. Get over yourself.
"I sorely regret that it upset people so much." Is it me or does this sound a whole lot like the old childhood taunt "I'm sorry you're stupid"??
I sit here and read through these posts and some make me smile, others make me furious and still others make me stop and think. (Thank you Geevie...you've given me a new way to look at life). How many people were absolutely horrified and furious over that college student who was bullied (the recordings and whatnot) and ended up killing himself by jumping off the GW bridge? Or other children who have jumped off of school buildings, hung themselves, etc...all because they were bullied. And then came home and sat in front of the computer and absolutely vilified a person because of how they looked, how much they weighed, what they wore, what color their home was, etc. A bit hypocritical to be saying that bullying is wrong one moment and then being the bully the next isn't it? And yes...I will admit that I used to go to a certain website that posted pictures of what people wore to a certain store. Then one day I realized that it is nothing but another chance for people to absolutely destroy others for no apparent reason. A bullied person was turning into a bully herself by laughing at pictures that people took of unsuspecting people out in public. I refuse to go to those sites anymore. And yes. I am an overweight person. I have a few health issues that have exasperated the issue. Am I eating non stop all day long? Nope. In fact I can go days without eating anything at all because I'm just not hungry anymore.
Why does society find it okay to shove every skeletal size 2, with obvious silicone Tupperware-looking excuses for breasts, Botox tightened, lip injected, hair extensioned, orange fake tanned (I hate to use the word “actress” because most of them do not obtain an ounce of talent) model down our throats? You cannot turn on the TV without seeing this proto-type, you cannot pick up a magazine, look at a billboard, watch a movie or even go to a concert (I will spare you my lecture on how our standards of music have hit a rock bottom). But, God forbid you make a movie, or a show about someone that did not get their image from a science lab!!!
And what is plus-sized anymore? Weight is sooo blown out of proportion!!! O, big headline news… Jessica Simpson packed on a whopping 5lbs! OMG… Oprah is back on the rise! Or… Nicole Richey… Deadly Thin!!!! Or, Victoria Beckham… Can anyone save her?!?!
You know what is rare? A woman that is strikingly beautiful NATURALLY!!! And I am not referring to the new eco-friendly bleach kit! I mean a woman that glows from within, can gray gracefully when it is that time, can dress tastefully, is intelligent, a woman that uses her breasts to feed her babies or for intimacy.
I am just so tired of the absolute distortion of the female body and image. I see beauty everyday and it is not on the television. We really need to re-define our definition of beauty before we all cease to be physically what we are meant to be genetically.
Awesomely said!! Exactly what I think!
I saw a thin girl two days ago with a nose ring, some tattoos and ripped up jeans. Today, I saw a "heavy" girl dressed to the hilt who carried herself quite well. Give me a curvy one every time!
I'd like to chime in on this. I know I am overweight. I am in the obese overweight category. I watch the show and enjoy the humor, but I will admit I like watching healthy weight actors and actresses more than morbidly obese actors and actresses. Because the show is new and the humor is fresh I expect to continue watching it for a while, but at some point my discomfort with watching morbidly obese actors and actresses will exceed the declining freshness of the comedy and I will quit watching the show.
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Shame on CNN for the remark about fat kids and cake. Overeating is not always the reason a child is overweight. Children's self esteem is fragile at best. We don't need networks belittling the children with their remarks. Adults should know better.
If you dont want to watch fat poeple on a tv show then it is really simple dont watch the show,
but fat people are fun to make fun of. if only there were a show where you can watch them die and get tortured
I notice a lot of people are using the word "normal" in their comments. Could someone please enlighten me as to what "normal" refers to. Is it a size 2.. how about a 4? What if you are 6'1".. or 4'9", what is normal then? The problem is we use the word "normal" as if there is a set in stone definition of what every single person is supposed to be. I am not saying that being overweight is no an issue, but don't you think people who are struggling with their weight know that. Lets look at shows like Americas Next Top Model where girls who are a size 10 are being called fat, what is that doing for our younger generations. I will tell you, I have a cousin who is 11 years old and is afraid of being fat. She has gone to the doctor and had the doctor tell her she is exactly where she needs to be weight wise but she is still concerned. 11.. when I was 11 my biggest problem was where to hide during hide-and-go-seek. I think we have more problems then obesity, not saying that it is not a problem.. but lets look at all sides of the argument..
Why does nobody see this show as a problem? This show promotes obesity as nothing to be concerned or ashamed about, yet being as fat as these people will lead to certain health and social issues. I understand that losing weight can be as difficult as quitting smoking, but I did both and show no pity or acceptance for the obese.
I would much rather watch Mike & Molly than any of the Real Housewives shows out there !
But what about pizza?
What? Like we are not tired of watching hungry, anorexic, obvious plastic surgery victims, liposuctioned people on TV? I find it rather refreshing when I see a show with real people on it.
I am recovering from over a decade of not carring what I did by eating. I've been at it about 4 months, am down 4 pant sizes, 2 shirt sizes, and I feel great now. I still have a long way to go, but I'm still at it. Part of the problem some overweight people have is when you are trying to lose weight, you have to endure the starring, the snide comments, and people talking about you behind, and in front, of you. Imagine you are 100lbs overweight, and you walk into your local gym to lose weight. There are maybe 5-10% of the people there that are as overweight as you are. People are starring at you as you walk through, you see them avert their heads, and comment to their friends. They laugh, and you know you are the butt of their jokes.
Where's there any motivation to go back? I did the frist 3 months of my exercise at home. I had GREAT encouragement from friends, family, and co-workers. Most people aren't that lucky. Also, if you are trying to lose weight, don't expect it to happen overnight! It probably took you YEARS to get out of shape, it's going to take a while to get back in. Take it a bit at a time, and work into it. Be happy when that favorite shirt is a bit lose, or you have to get one more notch in the belt. Take the small steps, and you can do it.
For those people that want to be mean, that want to be buillies, they probably wouldn't have the will power to lose weight anyhow. They can only sit behind their computer and make anon comments because they wouldn't have the guts to say it in person. Forget small minded people like that, because they are far worse for our world than someone that ate too many doughnuts!
Frankly, I don't understand why people are so sensitive about being called fat. Yes, there are people that truly cannot help how much they weigh. However, those are not the majority for heavy Americans. I used to be really heavy. I made excuses about exercising: too busy, too tired, not enough time, etc. People said mean things and it hurt. What hurt more was that they were right, I was fat. Finally I hit a breaking point and changed what I ate and my physical exertion. Guess what? I lost weight.
This:
Tia
Those of your spouting your hatred and disgust of fat people are as much too blame when they don't lose the weight. Who wants to go to a gym or out walking when they know that the real losers of the world – that would be all of you who are touting how unhealthy and disgusting it is to see an overweight person is – are out there? Yes, part of the obesity problem is YOU. If you hate fat people so much then what are you doing to help those people lose weight? Nothing, that's what your doing. As the saying goes, if you aren't part of the solution then you're part of the problem.
Is the stupidest thing I have heard. Constantly blaming what other people might say or do as a reason to not lose weight, it is just an other excuse and does nothing but hurt the overweight individual in the end.
Everyone hates something be it the fat kid, fatter adult, smoker, drunk, beautiful. ugly........... I had a boyfirend that whenever he would get mad he would attack my weight. I started taking my clothes in the bathroom, shutting the door and getting dressed. It was my solution. When he asked why I was doing this I told him it was to spare him any displeassure from having to see me undress. Of course he says he didn't mean it. To me I didn't care I didn't have a problem with my weight, he did so I spared him. My question to him was why was he grown man with the body of a 13 year old? He wanted to look at me in an attractive body and I wanted to look at him in the body of Adonis. Don't like it don't surround yourself with it but one day you may find that you become the very thing you discriminated against the most. To each his own so stay out of mine. Don't have to like me, love me or even respect me but you will pay attention to me.
People that are really fat should have to pay extra when they fly on an airplane. Is there anything worse than having to sit next to somebody that is 300 lbs overweight and have their fat rolls fall and smack you during a flight?
Key to weight loss: exercise more and eat less.
For all those who believe fat is a choice, YOU ARE WRONG. Not everyone who is overweight fits into your stereotype. My husband eats healthier than 99% of people posting to this blog (5 or more servings of fruit and veg, whole grains, very little processed or fast food) and gets exercise. However, he works full-time as a manager and just finished his PhD. The consequences of years of stress and fewer than 7 hours of sleep a night have slowed his metabolism. This is incredibly difficult to change despite proper nutrition and exercise... and we are trying. Educate yourselves that there is more than one mechanism in our Western lifestyle that leads down the path to excess weight.
Can it really be, that those of you who defend it as a difference of opinion never thought to notice the correlation between GDP-per-capita and obesity? In countries where food is not cheap but scarce and where the population is deprived of the food you eat every day, only the rich have the luxury to over-eat. And no one becomes over-weight unless he or she overeats.
We are so used to seeing stick thin people on TV and in magazines that people who are overweight seem abnormal. The truth is that most Americans ARE overweight...the AVERAGE dress size is 14...the AVERAGE bra size is 36 DD. It's about time that TV shows a more realistic depiction of REAL people. Would be better if weight was not even an issue on the show, but one would hope that a show like MIKE AND MOLLY would elicit empathy, not hatred. Marie Claire just lost millions of readers for this blog at a time when magazines cannot afford to lose fans.
–Charla Krupp, author of the bestseller HOW TO NEVER LOOK FAT AGAIN!
At the end of the day, our society is too superficial and too judgemental. That is why the U.S. is a target for violence and terroristic threats: because while other countries are making weapons and plotting revenge, we're worried about who's fat, who's rich, who's drunk, who's dancing with the stars, etc. People are people and they come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Some people are obese due to medications, thyroid problems, injuries that prevent them from exercising, etc. People who are obese due to overeating have to suffer the consequences for it: no one else does so no one else should judge them. Focus on the more important things in life!
I also should point out that I eat all kinds of fast food and garbage and never work out.I dont do a singe thing that is healthy,and yet I only weigh 145 pounds.Its not fair that some people could work so hard at trying to maintain an average body weight,and have to look at people like me who stay healthy despite how much we poison ourselves.
The least I can do is not be a jerk about it,and I dont tolerate people who act like jerks to people who dont deserve it either.So just go ahead and bully someone you 'dont approve of' for whatever dumb reason.Dont be surprised if someone runs up and punches you in the head.
Being overweight is a public health issue. Someone mentioned something about "just because you're not a size six...." That's a fine logic to have as there are plenty of women who have larger frames who are going to be a size 10 or 12 and they are perfectly healthy. The problem is if you are a size 8 and you're only 5'1". That's too big for your frame, and that excess weight leads to a whole host of health problems. Both characters in Mike and Molly are not a good example of how to be healthy. That said, whether or not you find a large person aesthetically pleasing shouldn't matter about what gets put on TV. There are plenty of non-role models who are on TV and lots of unhealthy story lines out there. This is just another example of that.
The fact of the matter is that being overweight is not healthy. It has to be one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States, whether or not people who are overweight want to admit that or not. At the same time, having some anorexically thin people on TV is not "pleasing" or healthy either.
Obese peple are disgusting! They are lazy, unhealthy, and unproductive. They are always very hungry, breathing heavy, and making comments like " I dont know why my feet always hurt". A real eyesore on the human race.
Historically, fat people are funny. The make fun of themselves and we all feel beter about ourselves because a fat person makes us laugh It's ok if a fat person or a person of color entertains us, but they are never taken seriously for thier intelligence or talents. It's a skinny, tall white world out there....at least in the Tea Party.
I hate fatties. Some people are prejudiced against different races, I'm prejudiced against fatties. I mean, how difficult is it to stop eating 4000 calories a day? If I ate that much food my stomach would rupture. Do fatties just wake up one day and find a fatty in the mirror? No, they don't. It's gradual. You'd think that when the waste or the rear got to a certain point, they'd lay off the Little Debbies and go exercise. But nooooooo...they just gorge themselves with more Little Debbies because they're all depressed about their weight. Disgusting. Fat is NOT beautiful.
I see a lot of ignorant comments on this board, people who are really messed up in their thinking. Sad society.
Its nice to see progress being made in the world.They always do shows about stereotypical small girls with bigger guys,or skinny guys,blah blah blah.If they have talent,it shows through.Likewise,a pretty face wont hide a nasty personality.
Besides,some chubby chicks are se/xy
I could care less about the size of Mike and Molly, I care about the humor, and I found none of it. Bad show.
I'll be back. I've got to jump in my 4×4 Suburban and get my afternoon snack from Mickey D's. I could walk there, but that would be just dumb.
People can smoke, drink, or be any size they want. I just don't want to be in the same insurance pool.
I have read most of the comments on here about Mike & Molly and the ignorant Marie Claire blogger. My comment to the Marie Claire blogger...get a life and deal with your own demons and quit judging people. You don't like to watch a show that has people of different sizes than yourself, then grab your remote and turn off the tv and read Marie Claire where everyone is the same size. Your comments were nasty and uncalled for and you should be discriminated against because you are rude and should not be allowed to blog for any magazine, let alone one that is for women. To the person who commented about having a mix of sizes of people on the show...have you even watched the show? There is a mix. And lets not forget that the show is about how two people are trying to change themselves by going to over eaters annonymous and lets face it.....each and every actor on the show is hilarious. The show is intented for comedic relief, it is for entertainment and would be just as funny if these two were anorexic and met in rehab or as someone put it in an earlier comment "average sized" or "normal sized" peopl who met at the grocery store. It is the actors ability to make you look passed what they weigh or how they look and all the actors do that. Why isn't anyone commenting on the fact that in the show the sister is a drug addict or the mother is an alcoholic. Seriously, people who are overweight know they are overweight. Do you honestly think that they don't realize it and need articles and magazines telling them they are overweight? However, just like alcoholics, drug addicts, anorexics, they have a problem and they need help not criticism. So everyone needs to do what their mothers told them and if they don't have anything nice to say then dont' say anything at all. I personally LOVE Mike and Molly and enjoy watching each and every Monday and think ALL the actors on the show have amazing talent, that is what I see in that show-actors and comedians, not someone who fat, short, tall, black, white, redhead, brunette, woman or man!
Kiki – very well written and without judgement. Thank you for a clear position, point of view and some place valuable to stand.
I love all the comments about karma. Too bad I don't believe in karma. I believe you are in controll of your on life and body and how it turns out...karma has nothing to do with it.
Ha, these comments have been a great time-waster. From the moral outrage on behalf OF fatties, to the desparaging hateful outrage BECAUSE of fatties. People are people, some are fat some are ugly some are tall some are gross. It's what we are. The rants against fat people because of health care costs are ridiculous, like our premiums would ever go DOWN even if they were thin * rolls eyes * give me a break. Live and let live. I don't pity fat people, I don't know their situation maybe they're happier than I am, maybe the hot girl at the bus stop is suicidal, who knows? Better yet, WHO CARES? Worry about your OWN life, watch what YOU want on TV, don't even spare things that don't affect you a second thought ~ life's too short to worry about other people's crap!
Being overweight does not have a one size fits all solution. There are many different reasons for being fat. Metabolism is a big reason. There can be people who sustain themselves on 1500 calories a day, and be obese. Just like there are thin people who have a daily intake of 3000 calories. This is an individual problem. Additives in the food supply (hormones and preservatives) which serve to pack on the weight. Doctors (I know, generalizing) will lose money if you are made to be healthy. Keeping the population sick is a guarantee of more money from the insurance companies.
IWhy shouldn't 'fat' people be on TV? After all obesity is an epidemic in the US.
I am a plus sized woman who is trying to lose weight. I realize that most of society views me negatively, but no more than I do. Anyone who is not overweight and thinks that losing weight is easy and just a matter of will power doesn't understand Obesiity at all. Doctors say that the healthy amount of weight to lose is 1 to 2 pounds a week. If you have 100 pounds to lose, you know it will take around 2 years to lose this.
Most of you have heard of A.A. Well there is a program called O.A. We in the program recognize that being a compulsive over-eater is a disease, just like being an Alcoholic is. So we have a legit disease. Would people make fun of someone who has cancer? Probably not, but those same people are making fun of those of us who are compulsive overeaters.
This is simply a show of two plus-sized people falling in love, not everyones opportunity to swap weigth loss advice. Whether your plus-sized or skinny, you're still beautiful, it's the people you try to change you that are ugly. Just because this doesn't fall under your own "ideal couple" doesn't mean that you need to be insulting- just turn the TV off.
I;m sick of hearing about obesity, don't look if you can't stand to see heavy. Some people have medical problems that cause weight gains. That's the trouble with the world today, everybody is minding somebody elses personal busilness.
I never realized people could be so cruel and brutal. Please stop to think before you post. There are other reasons why some people are overweight. It's not always that they can't put the fork down. Like diseases we never intended to develop that requires we take drugs that disrupt our bodies and cause weight gain even if we ate rabbit food all day. I have autoimmune diseases that I take biologics and steriods for that turned my body into something so awful I don't even want to see it. But, the alternative is dying way too young and leaving a grieving family. I can't do that so I take the wretched drugs. Which would you choose? Living and breathing or being plus size? Walk in someone else's shoes (or roll in their wheelchair) before you judge.
I think that having a sitcom with obese people as primary characters is a BAD idea. Being fat isnt some lifestyle choice – it means there is something wrong there. Either with your caloric intake, your amount of exercise, the type of food you eat, or a medical condition. Myself I cant even stand looking at fat people. My initial reaction is that of pure revulsion (and Ive been overweight myself!). Its just totally gross. I actually have this silly habit of holding my breath when they walk near me – dont want to catch any 'fat germs!' 🙂 This isnt about persecution. Or fairness. Its about people who dont take care of themselves properly. Its about the fact that SCORN WORKS. If you allow obese people to think its OK to look like that, you are going to enable them to continue living that way. Fat is not acceptable. Fat is *GROSS*!
What about "Cinderella" fat?
I feel sorry for skinny people. I want to give them money to buy food.
Just had lunch where they featured an all you can eat salad bar – and that was next to an all you can eat of anything we serve buffet. The herd of hefties was not at the salad bar – they were lined up three deep to get at anything that was fried and oozing fat etc. Some were using the two plate power move as it saves both time and energy as you don't have to back as often. Looked like feeding time at the hog lot – visually revolting and disgusting.
There is a huge (no pun intended) difference between carrying a few extra lbs and being a total slob.
Maybe if the two porklets featured in Mike & Molly met at a gym there would be different feedback? Bottom line is that
the morbidly over weight in this country are crushing (no pun intended) our healthcare system. I fi want to see something that big on my TV I'll watch an NFL game or Animal Planet.
Salad is for sissies.
Amen brother. You could take a dump in your hand, fry it, put it on the buffet, and fatties would eat it. She probably put some Ranch on it and lick it off her fingers.
As a person who travels in Asia on a quarterly basis I have a different view point. The bottom line is food is easy to get in the US and we have a weak relationship to self control. In Asia, where people work 12 hours a day just to feed their family that day, eating too much is not an option. We dismiss or attribute 'eating disorders' to low self esteem or other factors and relate to the exuse as justification for the condition.
Being physically fit requires two actions – eat right and exerise. Being fit, for me, is the result of a balanced life style and being overwieght is the result of no balance. I have a practice of becoming hungry before I eat and typically will drink some water before eating. I ask myself if I really need to eat. If not, I do not eat.
In the US we have people who eat when they do not HAVE to eat – no self control. We eat unhealthy food or eat in excess. For me, I enjoy being fit and it takes work and self discipline. On a professional level, I have some distrust of people who are over wieght. The internal thought is, "How can this person do quality work, work that takes discipline and attention to detail if they cannot manage their physical well being?" I don't want to fly on a plane when the pilot is over wieght, would not want a surgeon who is over wieght and do not want my children being taught by an overwieght teacher.
As a country we should support healthy eating habits, stop thinking fat people are funny (movie 'Grown Ups' has an over wieght character that makes fun of his size) and reduce our tolerance of over wieght people. In Asia, it is socially unacceptable to be over wieght. They have standards for the society and being healthy is one standard. We would do well to promote healthy life styles.
Does being overweight give you excuse, that is how you sound at the top of the piece. When people in this situation don't stick up for others, that is a real shame.
People who write about people being heavy or not wanting to look at them are struggling with their own self-image problems. The dislike has gotten over the top, and I for one am getting very tired of hearing it. We are not in anyway shape or form a perfect society. We have way to many thin people who are nothing but walking dead looking and we never say anything. We have people that are sad to say handicap, by no fault of their own. We have people with pimples, who wear glasses, who are not as pretty as the next. We have to stop labeling and writing things like this. How do you think you make those actors feel? If I were them I would let you have it big time. I like both of those actors. What this person wrote is like seeing a gay man playing a straight roll. It doesn't fit, but we let that go. So why not being heavy. They have just as much right to act and love and feel as anyone. We must stop this, how do you expect bullying to stop in the schools against fat kids, or the teens and tweens to love themselves heavy, thin, pretty or not. We are not setting good example for them. We are turning into a nanny state, of pick, pick, pick, until we have no self-respect for each other. I will always be a fighter for heavy people, because I think it has gotten way out of of hand. Each one of us is built differenthat is nature and life. GET OVER IT AND MOVE THE HECK ON. Praise who you are no matter the race, creed, color or size. Be proud of yourself. The ones who write like this are ignorant and need self help within themselves to see that they are the ones with a problem. They are ugly humans on the inside by looking at others in this fashion. The problem is not the heavy people, but the people who write negative about it and won't watch it. God gave all of us hearts even heavy people to love and feel.
I like the part where you imply that we should be nice and good-hearted to all...even if they're fat. Ha ha ha ha. Good one.
"Heavy debate" HAHAHAHA OK I get it
10s comment is by far the best comment I have read. I recently dropped 60 pounds. The motivation behind this wieght loss was being able to go up a flight of stairs, get out of a chair easily, walk from one end of the airport to the other, and on and on. The sheer effort of lugging around the extra pounds exausted me. Learning to eat properly, smaller portions, protien to carb ratio, was an eye opener. Now that I am smaller, people "see" me in a diffrent light. I am on the other side of the tracks, and I hate the stigma even more overwieght people endure. But until they reach the decision to loose the pounds, don't ridicule or discriminate against them. The choice to make is their's.
If you can be cruel about this, is makes me think there is a mean streak for other avenues.
I think that fatties are the mean people. If they ate less then starving children would have more to eat, fewer animals would be slaughtered, less Earth would be torn up producing the food they eat, etc. They are criminals.
Why are we so stuck on fat verse thin to me it should be the person personality. I 'm a very pearson and I always admire a well dress big lady. We also need to remember that some of the men in our society like lots of meat! So just love the person not her size.
I disagree. I think that fat women can only lessen the visual assault by dressing better than some other women. But they can only get to about a 4 or 5 out of 10. Max.
I find it hilarious that Maura Kelly–a "former" anorexic–is disgusted by fat people.
Gee, perhaps her hatred of fat people is part of her psychosis?
Hey, Maura–now you know how the rest of us feel about seeing concentration-camp-anorexic models in your magazine!
I've never heard of or watched the show, I havent' read the blog, but I am offended by CNN.com's comment "As a matter of fact, we love it like a fat kid loves cake.", when referring to the controversy of the Marie Claire writer's blog. The last birthday party I went to with my 3 year old son had about twenty 2-3 year olds thoroughly enjoying cake, and none of them were overweight. I'd say more than just the "fat kid" loves cake! How about you do the reporting and not add to the add to the controversy?
Agreed. The expression should be "like a fat administrative asst. likes cake". Big Bertha, one woman in my office, takes about half when we celebrate parties. She says she has a thyroid problem. I think she has a willpower problem.
A couple problems with fat shaming and bashing.
1. The fashion industry i.e. magazines like Marie Claire consider normal, healthy sizes like an "8" plus sizes. They hold up a size 0/2 as the ideal. For a woman like me who tends to be tall, that's an impossible standard even on medication that has the side effect of anorexia which mine does.
2. Fat shaming can be counter productive for those who are on the path towards a healthy weight. If you're on the way down from being morbidly obese and it's STILL not good enough i.e. people are still putting you down, what's the point? People are never, ever going to stop making you feel like crap.
People should worry less about how other people look and act and more about their own health and appearance.
For some i.e. people who are overweight, their health issues appear to be visible, for others they may be equally as unhealthy but we just can't see it. I'm at a healthy weight but am no less "healthy" than any overweight or obese person. The only difference is, neurological disorders aren't apparent without an MRI and a licensed radiologist to read them.
What annoys me about shows like this is that when a plus-sized woman has a love interest, it is always a large man, yet it's not uncommon for a large man to be portrayed having a thin wife. Why the double standard? There was a show on TV last summer called More to Love (basically the Bachelor for plus-sized women) yet the 'Bachelor' on this show himself was very overweight. They perpetuate the myth that the only men who like heavy women are heavy men. This is not true! I am a size 20 (5'6" and 240lbs) and happily married to a very muscular, athletic man (6'2" and 210lbs). I don't watch Mike & Molly because I was tired of the fat jokes after 2 episodes.
Is your husband from a 3rd world country where fat people are put on a pedestal? That's true in much of Africa and some of E. Europe. Sometimes it's hard to come by food in some places and the men shack up with large women. I think the plan is that when they die they can feast on them and then use the rest for jerky. It's just a pragmatic decision to ensure survival. It's been ingrained in the genetic code and dictates some odd behaviors. Plus I bet he's nailing some hot chick on the side.
There are health problems associated with being overweight, especially if one is in the obese category. I disagree with Rush's view that it's a personal problem. The illnesses associated with it cause increased access to medical care which cause increased health care premiums. The costs of health care are paid for by all of us, overweight or otherwise. Portion of our health care premiums and our income taxes support the health care of those that are overweignt. That makes it everybody's problem.
No one's weight is your "problem" or even any of your business! My fat does not affect your or anyone else's health care premiums; that's ridiculous. Let's say for one moment, that the propaganda of fat people being unhealthy and living shorter lives is actually true: in that case, you thinner, healthier people (and of course ALL thin people are healthy, you can tell just by looking at them!!) will live much longer than the fatties, therefore using up years and years more of Social Security and Medicare. And then, guess what happens? YOU WILL DIE ANYWAY! And your end-of-life care will cost just as much or more than any fatties'. So who is REALLY the drain on society?
Still fatties. Always will be fatties. Never thought about the fact that fatties cost me money. Health insurance premiums and co-pays are fatties fault. Damn it. Yet another reason to put down fatties! Not that it takes much more than the look, smell, feel, etc. The support woman here in the office is quite a sight (sarcasm), smells like a bacon scented litter box, and thank God I haven't felt. But her shirt often fails to cover of her belly and I have to quickly avert my eyes to avoid the fat rolls, acne, and stretch marks. Sometimes I think I see dirt and small insects.
i feel like the editor-in-chief's defense of her is pretty useless - that's like saying "it's ok that he's racist, because he was raised a nazi." having been anorexic doesn't excuse her apparent hatred of "fatties", it actually makes it worse. it implies that the hatred went so far as to affect her own health in such a negative way.
It was down-right rude of the writer to engage in such verbal abuse toward people of the larger persuasion. I am larger than I care to be; not because I'm self-indulgent, but due to endocrine shut-down. I don't like being the size I am; I was never like this and as a matter of fact used to be able to participate in biathlons; and I used to run 10 miles with a full Army pack on my back. But I digress. I feel badly enough that I know I am looked down upon by the skinny-person establishment. I'm too fat to have this job; I'm too fat and I'm a risk; I'm too fat so I can't earn as much; I'm too fat so I must not know much and on and on. Those of us who are larger than we like already have self-esteem issues. We don't need some skinny person making us feel even worse. I understand the truth and reality of my situation and I do not deny it. Right now I feel so hopeless that anyone can see any worth in me because of my size....and I'm not nearly as large as this couple on TV. So to see others like me who are capable of expressing their feelings of love to each other (even if its on TV) gives me hope that someone may find me attractive just the way I am.
The show they are talking about (Mike and Molly) is a COMEDY, not a steamy romance show. Who cares what they look like as long as its funny. And yes, its is very funny. My favorite new show on TV
Personally, I can think of a lot of other things that offend me a LOT more than "fat" people. RUDE people for one. Not to mention arrogant, self serving or judgemental. Some people need to look in the mirror or do a self evaluation before throwing stones. Many things could cause a person to be ugly.... Not just appearance. A good heart and a positive spirit can make anyone beautiful.
Why would anyone stand in front of a mirror and throw a stone? They might break the mirror and hurt themself.
You're right that a mean spirit and poor disposition is unattractive. Couple that with obesity and you have the perfect storm. But a fattie can only go so high. She could be brilliant, funny, witty, successful, etc. But men will never want her. A hot girl can have average everything else, but still have an easier life. Just a fact.
I really don't see what the big deal is here. The world is made up of people of all different shapes, sizes, colors, and religion. We have TV shows about midgets, lesbians, polygamists, blacks, and Christians. Why do people care if there is a show about plus size characters and why in the world would they feel the need to take sides or get offended? Hate, prejudice, ignorance, now that's are offensive.
As Peter on Family Guy said, "Fat girls need love too. They just have to pay, pay dearly". It's like trying to buy a flight from LA to NY last minute. It's going to be expensive.
I'm really sick of people assuming that everyone that's overweight is a glutton and does nothing but sit at home and pig out all day long. Instead of bashing people that are overweight and calling them gross, how about accepting them so they can accept themselves. When someone calls you disgusting, the first thing you want to do is eat so YES by ALL MEANS, let's make even MORE fun of them, cos that's exactly what they need. I've been overweight all my life and I struggle to lose weight. I eat way better in my 30s than I did in my 20s, I use workout videos at home when I'm taking care of my children so that I can get some exercise in during the day and YES I HAVE AN UNDER-ACTIVE THYROID which makes it so DAMN HARD to lose weight. So rather than sit behind your computers and judge me, take a good long hard look in the mirror because I can guarantee you that there's something about YOU that's UGLY too.
You're absolutely right. I have this nasty, ugly callous on my right foot from running barefoot and martial arts. It's just gross. I once had a pimple on my shoulder too.
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)))))))))))))))
While I think that her comments were insensitive, I can see where she is coming from. Obesity makes me uncomfortable because I know how unhealthy it is and how much abuse a person's body goes through because of it. It shouldn't be acceptable to be morbidly obese, just as it shouldn't be acceptable to be so thin you can see every bone in someone's body. The author was likely saying that she likens being obese to being a drug addict or an alcoholic, not because it is disgusting, but because it is extremely unhealthy. Was she insensitive? Absolutely. BUT, she has a good point that, by accepting morbid obesity as "normal" or "OK", we are accepting how unhealthy the lifestyle is. Women don't need to be 100 pounds, but they sure don't need to be 300 either.
But we dudes want perfection. I miss the days when there was a greater emphasis on taking care of oneself. A friend of mine was in a sorority and an older lady came in as an "adviser". She had been there 30+ years ago and still looked fantastic. She apologized that she was harsh but she said the real tragedy was these girls stomachs and muscle tone. She kicked some ass and taught these women that not everything is easy. Sometimes the hardest part of the workout is pushing the plate away from you. What ever happened to that mentality?
I don't watch much TV, and I've only seen one episode. I noticed that the characters were heavy, but that didn't really make much of an impression. Maybe because I've always been thin, and have never had to give much thought to my weight? Anyway, I thought it was a great show, very sweet, and I'll definitely watch it again if I get the chance.
The answer to whether or not people are being hard on the MC writer really depends on whether or not you believe magazines should write articles saying what people want to hear, or saying what they believe. If we constantly say what people want to hear, sure everyone will appear happy, but interesting issues will never be discussed and difficult polarizing subjects will never be faced. Should overweight people be aware that there are likely a lot of people in the world that see them just as they see drug addicts and alcoholics? Absolutely. What they choose to do with this fact (act on it, get angry, blame others, do nothing) is absolutely up to them. Now, if you think that magazines should only tell people what they want to hear, well then you probably believe that saying nothing is better than saying something – in which case racism, abortion, gay marriage, or other polarizing subjects should not be discussed, even more so by people with some sort of influence over others' opinions. I tend to land on the side of revealing the issues, building awareness, with the belief that people will face the music and make a change in their life. So, go MC, tell us how you really feel and maybe it will motivate someone to change their lifestyle.
I am fat. My coworker is thin or at least "normal". She eats poptarts, kraft macaroni and cheese and is a smoker. I eat whole grains and fresh vegetables and fruits. I dont overeat. I don't smoke. My bloodpressure and cholesterol levels are perfect. Which of us is healthier?
Most people would look at us and say she is healthier. I doubt it. She's always got a cold or a sore throat, a cough. She's got major problems with her teeth. I hardly ever get sick. But I'm fat and she's thin, so obviously I'm unhealthy, lazy and eat too much junk food. She obviously takes care of herself.
Yep
That's the premise on my dissertation work. "Fattieness" trumps anything else. It's like the queen of spades in the card game hearts. You're screwed unless you can get rid of it. You could have a kick ass 12 cards, but you still lose.
Great point Misty! It irritates me to see skinny people who can eat and live like that and never worry about their weight. I am like you and live off fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains and lots of water. I even exercise, but none of that helps to lose any of the additional pounds. So, I guess I will just have live with being a healthy heavy person.
Watch for the new Sitcom The BIGG Family about a large family of big people. It does not have fat jokes!
I am just dying to ask one question: All of you people who are disgusted by fat people, are you also disgusted by skinny people? Statistically, I KNOW you aren't all size 0s, so fess up! Are you as disgusted by overly-skinny people as you are by overly-fat people? If your answer is no, then you are nothing more than a brainless lemming who drank the media Kool-Aid. You're buying into an unrealistic, totally fake beauty standard. Now how stupid is that?
Yes, I find overly skinny people gross too. I recall this girl in college we called paddle ball head. We told her to go eat a sandwich. See – we were equal opportunity jerks. Not just the fatties in our crosshairs. But I'd rather be next to her on a plane than some white buffalo.
Well I've been hearing this crap for a while–"There's nothing wrong with being fat!" I'm fat, have bad knees and a fatty liver. Don't tell me there's nothing wrong with being fat, and please stop trying to spare my feelings!
And you wonder how hatred gets started.
Of course it's by fat people. If they weren't fat I wouldn't have this issue. So it's their fault!
Why does a person's weight in show really matter these days...it didn't way back when....Mrs. Garrett or Nell Carter would have been considered over weight or plus sized and what about Dan and Rosanne....OMG and you can even go as far back as Bonaza and Little House...they had plus size people acting and being funny and you didn't seen people complaning about it back then. It is only now when they are showing a positive plus size couple experencing romance in a positive why, dating, hand holding, kissing, etc....now just jumping in the sack with random people or using drugs or doing other bad things....I leave it to the skinny people to portray the bad examples that are children are exposed to these day. I rather my child watch a show like Mike and Molly that shows somewhat of a real life dating experience that most people go through.
When is the world going to start looking at people for who they are and not what they look like???? Isn't this the same type of thought processes people had back in the day about people of color? Yes, I know, I know....people are born a certain color and people are "generally" not born overweight, but the same judgmental thoughts and comments apply. If you don't like seeing people who are larger than yourself because they "disgust" you, then maybe you should start eating something called compassion and manners. Fill up on it, because you obviously are totally lacking in it!
I'm fat and I don't need anyones premission to be that. All the shallow twits that think body image makes a person is inane.
Say what you want I was born of average to below average weight and then later in life I got "FAT" nothing you or anybody can say can hurt me as much as I'm hurting being this way. Perhaps it's my karma coming back to haunt me but, everyone needs to be tolerant of others period not have your approval.
Hahahah…. Really, what I have gotten out of most of the comments here, people really are vein and most of you need to review your grammar before hitting post.
I cried after reading all these posts. Such hateful people.
I cried because I laughed so hard.
I've laughed so hard at the comments here I think I peed on myself. Whomever took this thread seriously, really, you need to lighten up. Those of you who posted fat jokes, thank you. You made me laugh. The references to mayonnaise and cooking oil and ice cream and fried chicken and sausage fingers and Ranch dressing have all been hilarious.
All you fatties who called the jokes a comment on a sad society need to relax a little. Sit down and have some cake and laugh a little. I mean, aren't fat people supposed to be jolly?
My two cents: watching overweight people is OK. It takes a lot of effort to stay thin, (which I'm sorry to say most people are not willing to do or don't think they can find the time for), and that will lead to a little bit of extra when it comes to the poundage. In general, I would still view overweight people as relatively healthy and even semi-active.
However, I detest obesity. To me obesity screams "I don't care at all about my health." or "Yup, I'm a symbol for America's arrogance. I just consume without thinking of the consequences. I'll just sit around and watch other people do the work, but still find some way to assert that I'm better than you." Sometimes when I see extra large people, I really just want to yell at them "How could you do that to yourself?! Don't you care about your well-being?!" (Note: I also want to do this to people who smoke.) I'm terrified with the thought of obesity becoming OK, especially since we're trending toward the majority of our country being obese.
In a couple of years non-morbidly obese disgusting people will be a minority. Then we will get preferential treatment in the job hiring process. We might get a union or an advocacy group too.
As far as obese people being an excessive burden on the healthcare system, I belive there have been studies that indicate that obese people are less likely to seek medical care because of the discrimination that they receive, and therefore make less of a financial strain on the healthcare system than people of average weight.
Another thing I like it to get the appetizer sampler at TGI Fridays with extra butter for dipping. Nothin' better than fried mozzarella with butter. Alas, I don't go to my local restaurant anymore because I keep breaking the chairs. They said I'm too fat. The offered my a bench, but that's just insulting. College boy told me it would displace my girth better. I pulled a shank out of my fourth stomach fat roll (I keep it there just in case) and jabbed at him. He ran like a scared little boy. I'd chase, but he left a basket of fries on his tray and they look really good. Yummy. I crammed as many as I could in my mouth and walked (I'd run but I can't...I have bad knees...it's a genetic defect) away in haste.
You are having fun, aren't you? Lol. Enjoy your Chicken and Crisco, I am gonna go work out now...
I love Mike & Molly this is a good sitcom that is a bit closer to reality that other shows on TV right now. I mean it would be much better if it were more diverse and focus on other issues the couple can have beside just being over weight and constantly joking about being fat. I think that the article in Marie Claire is just tasteless and yes we all have our freedom of speech and can voice our opinions but please do it in a way where we aren't hurting others because now you can be the healthiest and skinniest person in the world but you don't know what is store for you future.
If we were really concerned about the health of the whole then we would subsidize fruits and vegetables to the point that they were the cheapest foods to buy and then lets see how many just can't afford a melon at the price of $7.00 each and those who just don't want the healthy options. I know that I for one would choose more fruits and vegetables if I could afford them. I already can't afford beef but really that's healthy for me. When you can get candy bars for 5 for a dollar at a discound grocery mart and you have to pay $1.98 a pound for peaches your likely to feel your getting more for your money (or just what you can for your money) if you buy the candy.
Does anyone else like to put extra Crisco on fried chicken? I put the can in the microwave and heat it up until its warm and somewhat viscous. Then I spread out the KFC bucket on the floor, pour the Crisco on my naked body, and roll around in the chicken. Then I sit on the couch watching Jersey Shore (I really want to be more like Snooki) and pick off food for my 3rd dinner.
Two FormerlyFat's on the chat today...makes for interesting confustion.
Seriously! You done stole my name. I think your posts are juvenile and in poor taste.
"Coles told Fashionista that the magazine has received more than 28,00 e-mail responses to the piece."
Um, the comma is in the wrong place or someone left off a zero. One or the other, but the above is not correct. And yes, I watched Mike & Molly before I read this blog. I've always been a fan of Melissa McCarthy.
A few weeks a go so woman started screaming at me in the grocery store because I didn't move my cart fast enough. Apparently I was "a fat, lazy cow" and "would move faster if you(I) lost 50lbs." yes I was moving slow and no I am not a size 6. The reason I was moving slow however, was back surgery related to a car accident injury. Normally I can move as fast as anyone else in the store. So don't get too judgemental if you don't know the whole story.
You know, you can always change the channel. Nobody is forcing you to watch it.
As a "recovering fat person" (Just like alcohol, food can be dangerously addicting), I find shows such as the Biggest Loser to be inspirational. It reminds me what I am working so hard for, why I now spend half my life in the gym. What is so "disgusting" about people trying to get healthy? We have shows targeted at other groups of Americans, why not the overweight, which is more realistic, than say, Next Top Model?? It is easier for people to look on in disgust, I guess, than to try to understand or offer support. Fat people aren't fat because it is fun.
FF, the show Biggest Loser is explotative, How can anyone who works survive off a 1000 calorie diet and have the time to run 10 miles, do like 100 pushups and lift weights? After watching the show for a couple of years, I got sick of seeing folks almost kill themselves for a 100K grand prize. Is it nice to see significantly obese people lose weight, yes, but at these extreme conditions, no. Real weight loss and real healthy lifestyles are boring and make up poor tv. If you had a show where folks were losing 2 lbs a week and getting in the gym for an hour, would you watch?
Well, Harry, it is well known that BL is a sped-up, doctor-monitered version of reality. I manage to work and work out six days a week, up to an hour and a half a day, and easilty fit a 6 mile run in. BL doesn't claim to be what you go through at home. Oh, and yes, and I am married with two children to boot! My daughter comes to the gym with me and it is great bonding time. All it takes is the committment to give up the tv, computer games and other detrimental behaviors in exchange for health and a longer life with my family.
hahahaha.... all I have really gotten out of most of these comments, is that some of you need to check your grammer before hitting "post".
Hey – I take offense to that. I spell good. Ha ha ha. Maybe fatties have problems because their fingers are like too much sausage stuffed in too little casing. I also think the elevated blood fat might impair their intellect. I knew this smart chick in high school who is a balloon these days. She told me that she eats from all of the food groups..."KFC, butter, mayo, McD's, and the local buffet". I told her it's weird to eat both butter and mayo. Most people are partial to one or the other on a sandwich. Like I said, she's not too smart these days. She's got big fat fingers too. I bet she don't type so good. Ha ha ha my grammar is good.
If that is all you got from it, you didn't get very much...you spelled GRAMMAR wrong, genius!
well... relaly I could care less about the spelling and more about the GRAMMAR.(you know, the form of a sentance) As for the article... eh... it's the comments you get nothing from.
If you don't want to be fat and get mad when people state the obvious, lose weight. For real, everyone is sick of fat asses complaining how awful they look. Yes, we see it too. And we hate you for your HUGE weight issues.
First of all, it is not just fat people who are discriminated against. I eat a normal amount of food, but am really skinny and get rude comments all the time. People think it is appropriate to ask my weight and comment on my appearance. Looking back at pictures and videos of American society, I would not have even been given a second glance 40 or 50 years ago. But, these days I can't even find clothes because a size 0 is what a size 6 or 8 used to be. Overweight used to be uncommon and obesity was really rare. Now, many kids are too fat to join the military and our cops can't even run. I am not discriminatory against fat people- my Mom has struggled with her weight her whole life and my husband is obese. But, just because obesity is now normal doesn't make it something that should be considered acceptable.
They didn't get obese overnight. When they were 50 pounds overweight (that's alot!) why didn't they begin to address it then? OK, it ain't easy, I'll accept that. Is being 200 pounds overweight easier? When is it 'fat enough'?
They are shortening their lives, and adversely impacting what life they have left.
"I'm not fat, I'm drought and famine-resistant!"
I haven't read through the hundreds of responses here, so it's likely been mentioned already, but who the hell decided which EXACT physical appearance was acceptable for television (or other media, for that matter)? Why does everyone get so hostile when average looking people – the type you see walking around in every city, every day – are featured on a show, ad, etc? This crap really shouldn't matter!
I'm a very thin woman, and I don't diet or exercise excessively – this is my natural size. It is not better or worse than anyone else's. I wish society would wake up and stop being so hateful to fat people, because they did nothing to deserve it (even if they WANT to be fat...that is their prerogative).
And regarding the whole "I hate them because they are a burden on the healthcare system" argument: if you make this complaint, do you also harass and detest smokers who get lung cancer, athletes who get arthritis/tendonitis, construction workers with bad backs, firefighters with burns, anorexic women with cardiovascular disorders, etc? After all, it's their "fault," too.
I kept it short for the benefit of all readers, but to answer your question about other "problem" behaviors:
Do you think retired pro athletes get the cheapest premiums out there? Ex military, ex firefighters? Part of the reason they have special insurance as part of their retirement is because their "hazardous" duties create greater problems in the long run....and those should be paid for (or insured for) by their employer (the NFL, the Army, etc..)
"Extreme" athletes, sky-divers, etc...also have to sign disclaimers or "riders" that exclude coverage when they participate in their risky behaviors.
Believe me, I look forward to the day that companies get punished for forcing their employees to spend eight hours (or more) a day sitting in a cubicle with a cheap chair and a low-budget monitor slaving over their "work" for the benefit of the company. This is risky behavior as well, and the reason why many people become overweight with bad backs in the first place. Their crap job with only 2 weeks vacation and slave-driver boss is also, unfortunately, the standard...and we've let ourselves be pushed into these awful conditions. Jobs are taking more out of people's lives than they should be allowed to do...and people cut corners (like exercise and healthy diet with all-natural ingredients prepared at home) to make ends meet so they don't lose their jobs.
All the more reason to make fat "unacceptable". Once these folks learn for themselves that their job is literally killing them, they can put pressure to make changes or find a job that gives them the ability to live a healthier life. Until this is done maturely and consistently throughout stages of life....many people will continue to make poor choices.
TM get a life. You comment continually because it is you are are insecure. Accept the fact that, like me, you are a blimp who chooses to do nothing about it
I have been heavy all my life. Yes, at the beginning it was because of unhealthy eating and no excercise. Back in the 60/70's no one taught us how to eat the right way (other than in health with the food piramid). I have lost 50 lb's this last year, as I get older, I want to feel good and grow older not wider – for me – not for you. I was always healthier than my skinny counter-parts, they would be sick with colds and whatnots and I havent taken a sick day in over 10 years the problem I have with skinny people (I will never be one of them-in mind, body and soul) is that they think that being heavy/overweight/obese is that we choose to be that way. It wasnt a choice, it was nature and nurture. . Believe me when I say that no matter how big or small you are you have issues to deal with. You have to sort them out, what is important to you and when you get older, you realize that you are the only one that can make changes or stay the same.
I don't like watching "Bones" because of that anorexic woman as lead charachter, nor do I enjoy watching rolley poley ollie on Biggest Loser either. The extremes are what TV is offering. I get enough rolly poley when I go to my local Wal-Mart already. Normal has gotten larger, and with clothing companies re-working their size chart to make everyone faked-out that they are still a true size 6...well...sorry to say (as an insider to that industry) you are probably akin to a size 14 back in the 1970's.
THe marble orchard is full of younger people who died fat.
I don't think people are being too hard on the Marie Claire.com writer at all. Uncouth, intolerant, and ignorant do not even begin to describe Ms. Kelly's piece and her general point of view and I cannot believe that higher ups at Marie Claire.com allowed such an article to be posted on its website.
The only disgusting thing about this is, not the woman who wrote it she obviously is a narrow minded bigot, but that a magazine of Marie Claire status would actually believe publishing such visciousness is okay. Hope they lose big bucks because of it.
being overweight or fat isn't healthy, isnt pretty and isnt right. its not something i would encourage or say is okay for anyone. I dont believe you have a disease, i believe you're lazy. I get my butt up and hit the gym 5 days a week, i turn down the ice cream when i really want it. Being fat is giving our children an unhealthy message, not to mention you feel bad when you eat garbage. No one is happy being fat, even if you say you are i dont believe it. the industry of weight loss isnt a multimillion dollar industry because people like being fat. just for the record i would not watch this show.
My fat is a good friend who talks to me. He says..."excuse me, sir, more pizza please". And, "I think it's about time for that 24 oz Natural Light in the fridge" or "I want dessert, I want dessert, I want dessert". He's a pain some times, but he's the only friend I got.
A link to the Marie Claire blog was posted on Twitter by one of the people I "follow" last night and I read it. I too was outraged by the insensitivity and ignorance. Unfortunately it's not just the average person, but even the medical profession that is completely in the dark on the subject. Most diet books are written by "doctors" and they aren't worth the ink used for printing. Adkins was a complete moron. His diet will eventually lead to more medical problems, some of which are VERY severe. Weight is a troubling issue for millions, and while most of us can benefit from adopting healthier lifestyles, there is no guarantees or cure-alls. Many of us fight a life-long battle against weight. There's nothing worse than hearing a reformed smoker's opinions about what you need to do to quit... and there is nothing worse than listening to a skinny person telling you how to eat. Lighten up people, most of us are doing the best we can.
If you're fat then you're not doing the best you can. I like the unintentional pun about "lighten up".
@Stephanie- there is such a show: House of Payne. It features people of all different sizes, a mix of ages, even a variety of minority races. I think it's a refreshing show... has the comic appeal and wholesomeness of 90s awesomeness Family Matters... without the big "nerd".
In additon to more of an emphasis on "normal" and "average" or even above "average" sized people... the industry needs to get a whole on it's concept of beauty in general. Hair doesn't needs to have a *perfect* blow out to look nice, women don't need to coat themselves in make-up or spend a fortune on clothes to look great.
P.s. I'm no skinny girl, but I wouldn't consider myself plus sized either.... it doesn't make anyone feel good to think that "fat" people need their own show.... I agree with Stephanie though... why can't we have a variety of types of people in one show?!
I find fat people visually revolting. I don't watch TV, so when I stayed at a hotel recently, I decided to have a look. There are FAT people everywhere, then there are the morbidly obese like the two pictured. You are NOT: beefy, plus sized or (ny favorite) "football build" you are FAT. Say it, own it.
"Football build". Ha ha ha ha snort. If the fatty across the hall from my tried to get in 3 or 4 point stance she'd fall over on her ginormous (I know it's not a word) belly. Then we'd have to get people to help her get up, and she'd feel real bad, and apologize, and thank all the helpers. But I'm not helping. I'd be standing there saying "oink, oink, oink". I might throw some cheetos within her reach to keep her satiated. Then she'd go put some artificial cheese and peanut butter on bacon and chow down.
People need to quit worrying so much about what the actors in this show look like. The writing is briliant. I laugh for the entire thirty minutes every week. The actors are real people and I appreciate that.
I am with Bikeman, we keep making excuses for overweight people. It's not rocket science that you have to burn what you eat, what ever that may be. I work full time, have a child and husband, a house to clean....etc. So when my 350lbs girlfriend tells me that she's too busy and NOT LAZY, then my response to her is then set aside 20 minutes a day to exercise. I started running just over a year ago and have lost 27lbs, I'm not done, but now running rules my world. I haven't changed a thing in my diet, just decided that I have to excerise if I want to eat what I like. Either make better food choices OR excerise...again intake and output. Noone is saying it's easy, but it's not hard to understand the MATH behind it!! Good Luck to those that are struggling, change is hard, but not impossible... I think paying for airline tickets based on the scale would be ok with me!
Yes u did know that it would be a big deal, that's why u wrote it in the first place. Just to get people to respond. I hate when u writers write something and then say "I didn't think it would be such a big deal" get over it u got exactly what u wanted. And as for "fat" people showing some love towards each other is no big deal. Its the media that makes it a big thing. And if it discuses some people oh well just turn the other way. I think some people have nothing better to do then to get on line and look for articals like this just so they can write something negitive. GET A LIFE PEOPLE!!!!!!
Being overweight, especially into obesity, is risky behavior with long term effects. These present not only as increased financial costs, such as in health-care, but also emotional costs on family and friends as well.
Like all forms of abuse, we should discourage behavior which demonizes or makes fun of people with weight problems. But we should also stop the insanity of telling people to be "comfortable with their own body-image" when they are overweight. We don't encourage speeding, binge drinking, or other types of risky behaviors (as a general rule) in the health-care industry....so why should we let overweight and obese people think that nothing is wrong with them?
The truth lies somewhere in the middle...where we discourage unhealthy weight amongst all members of our society. Just as smokers produce excessive risks and costs which insurance companies charge a premium...so should overweight people be made aware that they place a burden on society's programs that attempt to provide for the common good.
While we should discourage the archetype of the "wafer-thin" model for young girls, we should also discourage fat\overweight body types. The message should be clear, humane, and respectful of persons battling problems on either side. The way to battle against the improper message the fashion industry sends isn't a campaign to make "fat" people feel good about themselves...but rather to encourage a healthy weight which provides the best chances for quality living.
Several years ago, I was seriously injured. I layed around for a year and gained 70 pounds. I have made no attempt to lose it, but when I LOOK AT MYSELF in a mirror, I am disgusted. Fat people, including myself, are repulsive to look at. Fat people need to quit making excuses, period. There is nothing pretty about fat. The vast majority of us are fat because we are hogs who don't take care of our bodies, that simple
Thankfully, 99% of us are NOTHING like you, ya condescending turd.
Go live in your completely black and white, no shades of grey, adolescent world.
These skinny people with their need to tell us all our health issues are OCD and controlling obsessed. I might think you are too thin, too rude, too controlling, too a lot of things but I don't insult you or tell you need to live your life in another way. Do I?
People are people, they have feelings, they love, they work, they pay their bills. They don't get to pick their genetics, their parents, their financial ability as they are growing up to eat only high value, high priced foods. The poor eat poorly because they are poor. Healthy good costs more, and people living in housing don't have gardens, sorry to break the dream.
Really people just be nice. Pay it forward and maybe when your less then perfect someone will be nice to you.
I love the show and think it's very funny..If there are people that don't like the show why don't they turn the channel, IT's great to have a sweet and funny show to watch after a long day.
Why are Americans so overweight? A candid answer to that question would be censored.
Re: Alissa "I will admit that being overweight isnt healthy however thinking its easy to drop the weight and live a different lifestyle is ignorant." True it is not easy to lose weight, but changing what you eat is easy. Don't buy fast food and don't eat ed meat every day and don't load cheese and butter on everything you eat. People need to learn how to eat healthy and stop gorging themselves. Yes these may be harsh words, but honestly people need to stop making excuses and make an effort to change. I heard on the radio that soon 1 in 3 people will have Diabetes!!! That's insane. The worst part is that parents are feeding their children the same junk they eat and their children have no chance to have a healthy lifestyle. These parents should be held accountable. It is the same thing as neglect. I think its sad that parents feed their children the most unhealthy foods and cause their children to be obese and have diabetes....to me it is almost a crime. It has to stop. People don't have to be anorexic but we should not advocate acceptance of obesity. We shouldn't ridicule it either. But It is a choice for adults and they need to step up to the plate and make a change. It may take self control and discipline, but I think we should be able to expect that from any adult.
I think that the idea of "fat acceptance" is a silly one. Obesity is the leading helath concern in 21st century America. Beeing overweight is unhealthy and draining vital health care resources. I have no problem with overweight people being displayed on TV, but to suggest that being overweight is a legitimate and acceptable lifestyle that shouldn't be frowned pon is like saying that smoking or binge drinking is no big deal. Being fat is a bad thing. It shortens your life, decreases your quality of life, and drains and straings our healthcare system. Let's not get so encourage this lifestyle because it is politically correct or because it panders to the masses.
When you have been invisible in the world then you can criticize and mock. It not all about food and exercise every person is different, on a different path, and travelling their own way. Tolerance and respect is all that is asked.
I like pizza.
The example of Roseanne (which several people mentioned) is an interesting one. Roseanne was able to do what she wanted with that show because she was, at the time, a powerful woman in Hollywood, and the show made money. She was trying to portray what she thought was a lower-middle class American family, which in her mind equated to obese adults who had other priorities than their health. Equally interesting was the fact that the children on the show were all thin, something which is not representative of the average American family. How often do you see that in real life–fat parents with thin children?
As an ex-fattie, I think that obese people need every encouragement to eat better, exercise more, and make more healthy lifestyle choices. But the entertainment industry is under no obligation to portray obesity positively–it's not a positive thing. For those who say that images of thin people on TV are somehow harming people by sending the message that you must be thin, then I would respond that the message is not getting through. Certainly many thousands more people die each year from being fat by choice than by being thin by choice.
As for the TV show in question, if it's good, it will find an audience. If it fails, it will be for the same reasons that dozens of shows fail each season–bad writing and bad acting.
I can't believe how insensitive some of you are! The trend here is the belief that fat people can dictate their size, as if it's a choice. It really NOT a choice whatsoever. Your being fat is totally dictated by your genes, the chemicals in your brain, your socio-economic status, and a host of other things. What if the person your looking at has a chronic asthma problem–you can't see that, but you cannot exercise when you can't breathe! You can't lose weight if you can't exercise, either. Or what if that person your are loathing has rheumatoid arthritis, or any other "invisible" disease that makes exercise impossible. How dare you all assume the heavy person can "help" it, as if they are disgusting or hideous. Shame on all of you, you "perfect" people for you arrogance!!!!
Donna – You don't mention if you're a fattie. If you are, then YES, I am better than you. Ha ha.
So, those thousands of Holocaust survivors we see behind barbed wire in the black and white pictures were ALL genetically set to be thin?
Or, were the WWII German army just rounding up thin Jewish folks?
Be serious here folks and put down the Ding-Dongs.
Jade and kmarie, So what you saying is that all an overweight person needs to do is workout 30 minutes a day and eat vegetables and somehow they will be healthy? Sorry but I work our about 2 hours every other day and Still have a BMI of 31. So what else should I do? Not eat?
For the Marie Claire associate and all the persons who talk badly of plus size individuals – using appearance as a number one factor in selecting the people you associate with is a grave mistake. Too the gentleman who stated he would not allow his children to watch a show with fat actors, do you teach your children to use ratial slurs when they see a person of another ethnic origin? If you say no I am not prejudice, then you are a liar because you show prejudice based on looks. To Maura Kelly of Marie Claire you should be fired and your company should be boycotted, have you never had "Diversity Training"? Maura Kelly and your followers – it is time to move past the junior high mentality. GROW UP!!!!!
It is wrong for these fatties to be on TV, just as it is wrong to allow cigarette or hard liquor advertising on TV. Society should not have to pay for idiots that cannot control themselves. It is irresponsible of a TV network to promote being a fatty as acceptable. The lack of cigarette & hard liquor advertising was implemented primarily to keep children from seeing it. Is it now acceptable for our kids to become fatties? If you are for fatties on TV, then you must hate kids.
Plus...fatties are sooo nasty!
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I am 25, 5'8 and 270 pounds. I eat roughly around 800 to 1200 cals per day and work on my feet for 8 hours a day as a colorist,makeup arist and hair stylist. I'm 110 pounds over weight. I buy top of the line trendy "plus size clothes" Dress my self in a stylish manor. Do my hair most every day. Spend over $2000 in MAC, Makeup forever and Dinair makeup Per year. Another $1000 in perfume. I live in a nice apartment with no cheetos in site. So I am nasty ugly and do not deserve the same rights as everyone else when in reality I take better care of my self then 75% of the people in the USA do? Are you out of you noggin?
Feel free to look me up. I am not a fat nasty slob and should not be treat as such. myspace – makeupandhairbydanielle
Here is an idea. How about we focus on promoting health, not just picking on someone because they are too big or too small. It ia obvious that being either extreme ins NOT healthy. We need to realize that a healthy body comes in many different shapes. It all comes down to an individuals height, frame and muscle weight. There is NO one ideal weight, .
Actually since your the one who has a problem with it you need to hide. The fact that your a small-framed thin person has almost nothing to do with you and how awesome you are and more to do with your genetics. I would take a large bulky frame with some extra baggage on it and an open-mind and a kind heart over being like you any day. My fat ass actually feels very sorry for you. You must have a very sad lonely life living in your skinny little tomb.
Sorry Christine, somehow my reply got put under your comment (which I totally agree with) instead of under Jade's (who is a moron).
Many of you are missing the point here. Glamourizing being overweight, or making it seem like it is acceptable does nothing but add to the obesity problem in this country. Losing weight isn't easy, and neither is maintaining a healthy weight. I am a 40 year old mother of four, who had my thyroid out 9 years ago, and believe me, I can agree that it isn't easy. However, I still do it. I am a size 6 because I exercise 1/2 hr a day and don't eat beyond what I can work off. It is hell half the time to exercise, but you have to be motivated and have the iniative to do it. Only you can help yourself. The more society accepts overweight people, the easier it will be for these people to sit right back on the couch and justify their lifestyles.
I wonder why there is not much reaction to seeing anorexic females on screen all day long? It's a complete double standard. There are deeper reasons why people eat too much (obese) or not enough (anorexic). Reasons are similar: stress, career pressure, media, lonely, anxious, fear, childhood trama, neglect, under parented, over parented, this list is endless. If anorexia is considered a disease, so is obesity. If you think you're so perfect then get off your a** and make a difference in the lives of people who need your professional help. If you don't have action behind your words, you simply spew out verbal diarrhea with no affect. Those that so easily judge are the most miserable, self centered, arrogant, useless people alive....
I agree with the Marie Claire writer. I hate fat people and don't like looking at them. I certainly don't like watching them on TV. It's such a shame how most people let themselves go. People don't seem to have any pride in themselves. They just gave up and let whatever happen happen. If their metabolism doesn't work fast enough then STOP EATING AND BEING LAZY!! Don't make the rest of us witness your grossness. Yes, I'm highly opinionated. I'm a small frame woman and all the women in my family are as well. It confuses the heck out of me how so many people don't do what they need to in order to be thin (healthy thin) and look better. Fat people need to either lose weight or hide.
This Houston lady is awesome! Preach on! Nice to hear some women out there can't tolerate the visual assault.
Why do people expect empathy for a condition that is brought on completely by choice? I can empathize with someone born with type 1 diabetes that has no control over it, but i can't empathize with morbidly obese people who just can't keep their hands out of the cookie jar.
Maura Kelly and the guy who just got fired from NPR would make a lovely couple. Obviously, insensitivity knows neither color nor gender.
10s, you so correct, I think I have now figured it out, because I work out 5 times a week and eat a normal diet and still have a BMI of 31, I should now refrain from Eating because I can lose weight to have a 'normal' BMI. This will make you happy, regardless of the fact that my Healthy numbers are good, but because my BMI is over 30 (Obese) it's because I eat too much. Wow, all of these nutrition experts out here. Too bad. I will now starve myself to make you happy.
"Fatness" can be fixed with proper diet, exercise, or even surgery in extreme cases. But vicious, cruel and intolerant – well, anyone suffering from these afflictions is stuck with 'em for life.
Others have already commented about the fact that it is great that the media is finally portraying more "average" sized characters on TV. I am in favor of this, however, shows that only have super skinny people or very obese people are normalizing this appearance. A healthy person is neither of these, it is unrealistic to portray "normal" people as super models, or as being obese. The problem I have with this show in particular is that children and adults who view it will think that being very obese is okay, and obesity is already pandemic in the States and the last thing we need as a country is to be comfortable with it. (I would feel the same way about any show portraying drug addictions, bulimia, etc, as being okay)
Building acceptance for overwieght people is dangerous and unacceptable in my opinion. Being obese is not healthy, puts a huge drain on our health care system (and society) and sets a horrible example for our children. Who would applaud a show that builds acceptance for alcoholic behavior, or drug use, or spousal abuse? Just because people today eat like crap, don't excercise, and have the excuse that "models are not real people" that doesn't mean it is okay to accept the incredible obesity we see today. The human body was not meant to carry that much fat and instead of accpeting people who are obese as "natural" we need to educate people that being 100 1lbs overweight, or more, is WRONG. Sheesh, how can any rational person accept obesity as just a lifestyle that should be applauded escapes me.
If overly skinny people are criticized for being unhealthy and touted as not appropriate role models for our children, the same goes for overweight people.
ChrisCintheD, really, folks who are skinny work hard to be that way? So Bulemics and Anorexics work really, really hard to throw their food up or not eat at all? You are comparing eating (not Voluntary) to being a drug Addict (voluntary), really? Last time I checked I had to eat to live, I do not have to drink, smoke, or do drugs to live. So what is a person which an eating disorder to do? Not eat? Seriously is that what you suggesting?
If you weigh 500 pounds, yeah, you make me a little uncomfortable. Mike and Molly, on the other hand? They aren't morbidly obese, and I don't mind watching them.
I am still just as upset about this today, as I was yesterday. After reading Marie Claires support of the fatphobic blogger, I canceled my subscription and I'm on a plane right now. Maura Kelly should be fired. Yes, there's freedom of speech in the US, but we also have boundaries. If this had been a topic of race or religion she would get the boot, but instead they continue to back her and I will no longer back MC with my dollars. Has Ashley Falcon said anything about the situation?
The Conners (Rosanne and Dan)have been forgotten about and that was a great show, it was the content and the context of everyday living ie: unemployment, trying to be in business and failing, trying to be in business and succeeding. This show gave you a glimpse of life not perfect, not rich ,not thin, children not perfect,parents who are functioning nut cases just straight up life! Every actor who gets a job as an over weight female is pushed by her agent to lose weight or she won't be working but John Goodman big and bigger keeps right on working, Ricki Lake lost weight and had one maybe 2 roles after losing weight and ended up with a talk show where is she now? If Oprah didn't have the personality that she has she would've never survived her weight ups and downs, yet she is who she is and weight is only a glimpse into the reality that she's human like the rest of us. I look at women like Kathy Njimy when she lost weight the love of her life left her and he was almost George Clooney -Denzel Washignton fine (if you know what I mean) ;he liked her the way she was and she lost weight just by swimming everyday because she found she enjoyed it. Men love who they love and like who they like regardless of size even if they try to hide it they do! A show showing plus size people in a romantic situation is just life. Say Yes to the Dress shows you plus-size women get married have fabulous weddings and wear that white dress just like ms size 0. The article writer for Marie Claire voiced her opinion but her editor published it to get just this reaction but the true test is will they lose readers and subscribers over her opinion. Because baby when you get to the brass tacks of it all it's about the almighty dollar, that's why the Biggest Loser is still on TV. The weight lost industry is one of the largest money making machines on this planet right up there in the Billionaire Dollar Profit Club. So all you sawdust Kashi eating, fiber counting folks remember Yuel Gibbings still died from heart trouble and he was "healthy" Skinny women still get "Cancer" so being over weight although unhealthy may not put you in the grave any sooner than anything else.
You should take eveything you read with a grain of salt; everone's got an opinion.
Some people are thin, some are fat and some are in between.
Just worry about yourself. If you don't like a person becuase they are fat, I'm sure they'll get over it.
But no matter who you are leggings should not be a fashion choice.
How you going to fight genetics? I'm sure folks are doing the best they can to fight obesity, and if they're not.. it's because they're disgusted and have given up, or they just don't care. Plain and simple.
To all those who speak of the health costs regarding those that are overweight, remember, healthy food is drastically more expensive then unhealthy food. I have gone on a health kick recently and I have been cooking a lot my own meals, but it so expensive to buy things not processed or a bag of chips. And you can easily over eat healthy food as you can fast food, so it's not just fast food that makes people over weight. Generally being overweight is a medical condition or mental one, such as depression. Not to mention the expectation of what is expected of women. I don't hear anyone griping about the "fat" guy from King of Queens making out with slender wife. I'm guessing the issue is more about the female star than the male one.
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That is completely false, where exaclty are you shopping? Vegetables are cheap and go a long way (for about $6 I can make enough salad for an entire week and then some), so are things like yogurt, hummus, cottage cheese w/fruit packs, cereal w/milk, wild grain rice, soup, loaf of whole wheat bread, etc, etc, etc. To say that unhealthy food is cheaper than healthy food is a cop out and completely false. Sure, there are some things that are cheap, like a Tostinos pizza, but for that same $1.50 you can also buy plenty of healthy alternatives. Get a clue already......
Kmarie, its not wise to judge that which have not experienced. There are studies on the issue of poverty and obesity in America. The truly poor are faced with purchasing food that will fill their children's bellies the most and for the longest time period for the absolutely cheapest price possible. Purchase a bag of carrots for a dollar or the store brand boxed mac and cheese at 3 for a dollar? Mac and cheese wins. Ramen noodles win. Bulk bologna wins. Hot dogs win. As a former poor, but not poor enough for public assistance, single mother, I can tell you that I much prefer our current varied diet filled with fruit, veggies, fish and poultry, but for a few lean years, Ramen Noodles were our friend.
oops. that reply was to Buliwyff, not kmarie.
Hah, being fat is no more a choice than being gay... If you have metabolic issues, will power issues, etc, you can't just make those go away. Imagine if everyone who had some 'problem' in life were required to wear a big P on the lapel... betcha wouldn't find too many folks without one...
Being to hard on Marie Claire??? Seriously? NO WAY! I agree that taking things to a personal level with Ms Kelly is wrong. She's a person. A hateful and bigoted one, but a imperfect person nonetheless. However a publication aimed at young women like Marie Claire have some moral responsibility to not worsen issues like this. In a time when so many responsible media outlets are addressing the issues of bullying and hatred head on, trying to HELP, Marie Claire gives bandwidth to a bully who is spewing hatred. I can NOT where her hatred of fatness comes from. Most bullies have issues, great, they are still bullies! I am SICKENED that Marie Claire is ok with this and while I am not really a boy-cotter by nature I WILL be boycotting them and events/brands they foste rif they don't do something to write this wrong.
I wrote them to let them know this, and posted a copy of my letter (including email addresses so that others could email without driving traffic to their site)on my blog here:
http://www.ohboyohboyohboy.com/2010/10/letter-to-editors-of-marie-claire.html
what I see about the show is that the whole schtick is "overweight couple in love". I feel that this is the real issue here. In the past the only place for overweight characters on tv was the boisterous Rosanne couple (whom everyone loved), the sad nerdy best friend, or the funny sidekick. Yes, like everyone is saying, being overweight does increase your chances for many diseases. But these are still people that deserve love just like everyone else. What television, plays, books do you know that feature an overweight person as a lead character "in love"? I can think of a few but it was all done in a sort of farsical-feel-good-unbelievable way like Hairspray. Not a real life way. Now, after I've said all this... I have to comment on the fact that, as a slightly overweight person, I totally roll my eyes whenever I see the made for tv movies about fat people. It aggrivates me that I'm so agitated but what gets me so is that I don't appreciate the "overweight schtick!" Why can't this character just be another character? Why does he or she have to be so totally defined by fat? Other characters on tv are layered and interesting even Dexter has more than one side! Oh, he's a vigilante serial killer... but lets focus on what a good man, father, brother he is!
to "Void"...Bravo! You took the words right out of my mouth! It disgusts me that people who are overweight are laughed at, made to be the butt of jokes, and are free game for anyone who wants a laugh! We are told that this is just fine, and maybe even the norm! We would NEVER do this to those who suffered with anorexia, who were disabled, african-american, or heaven for bid gay! What a double standard. We need to be kind to everyone, because everyone has issues. Those who are overweight, just show it on the outside.
Everyone who makes nasty comments should be ashamed of themselves and should craw back under the hole they came out of!
I'm sorry i'm not familiar with the show at all. I bet it's as cute and funny as many other shows i don't watch. I'm more into other types of shows.
I generally try not to ever put judgment on a fat person. And I am glad that people mention other shows where people are overweight and other overweight actors too that are just as funny and lovable because i don't think the problem is simply people being disgusted at such actors. If it is i agree with so many other comments that it's their issue and they are taking it too far. If you've got hate/disgust for another person without knowing them, take a step back and look at yourself.
That being said i think this show may be an issue as the debate over current model size is an issue because the whole population of the US is now getting overweight. And i disagree that it's like a hair color simply because it is unhealthy. So among all the ways of responding to a situation where more people are getting diabetes and kids are obese etc. romanticizing unhealthy sizes does not seem to be the best solution. Having a show just for fat people or going from the too skinny models to way bigger models... i'm not sure i get that.
Personally no i don't think size 0,1,2,3... are attractive, i'm not sure they are healthy either but should we jump from that to size 20 or i don't know what size? I think we should wonder about what a healthy size is. And go from there.
I know how hard it can be to loose weight or the many complex and diverse reasons why someone does gain weight. But i don't agree that we should act like it's the new norm. I think many other articles are talking about solutions for the new trends in weight and i think that is the way to go.
Does anyone remember a little show called Roseanne?
I look at it this way it makes me laugh it's a sitcom it's not a politcal show watch it don't watch it this is America . If you don't like to see overweight people on a certain Tv then change the channel. Enough said!
I would rather watch this show and laugh then see someone like an emaciated Victoria Beckam who makes me want to vomit!
the difference between this show and rosanne is twofold... one being rosanne was funny, the second being the entire premise of rosanne wasn't about being fat – it was about a family living its life. this show relies on nothing but fat jokes, many of them insensitive and all of them not funny. shows can have different sized characters without needing to call attention to it. there are better ways of integrating more realistic sizes into our culture without being stupid about it. i tried to sit through this mike and molly show, its insulting. mike is likeable as an actor hopefully he gets a show doing something more like the king of queens as opposed to this insulting material.
The true atrocity here is your grammar.
That writer needs to be fired. Sure, there is freedom of speech in the media, but when you are deliberately attacking, insulting, and degrading a specific group of people for no reason at all, you are really overstepping the boundaries and abusing your privileges.
Hello people, why is this a new thing? Are you so stupid that you don't remember TV history? Jackie Gleason of the Honeymooners. Carroll O'Connor of All in the Family. Roseanne John Goodman on Roseanne. Hello morons. People have not changed, just the perception. We are fatter than ever we just hate ourselves for it...but the ass size has not changed.
Is it Marie Claire, or Eclair?
I think one poster brought up a good point. If 60% of the American population were heroin addicts, would we be trying to make that behavior seem acceptable? That's a majority, after all. It's the new "normal" and how dare anyone speak out against what's now normal?
There are exceptions to every rule, but very overweight and obese people are not healthy. You can be thin and unhealthy, true...but most people who are thinner work hard to be that way. When you do not moderate calories in vs. calories burned, you get heavier and heavier. I won't blame it on laziness, but rather a lack of motivation to devote time towards taking better care of one's self. Sometimes we put other things before ourselves. Sometimes it’s to our gain, but it can to be our detriment. Personally, I've gained 20lbs since entering the workforce and starting my Master's program. That extra 20lbs is not a badge of honor. It's a clear sign that I do not take the time for myself to exercise like I know I should. Why should that be lauded, accepted and celebrated? Instead of me complaining to the world that "I'm the new normal, you need to accept it because I'm too busy to take care of myself," I'm going to do what I need to do to get healthy. It’s hard, but I realize I’m worth it. I don’t understand how someone cannot feel they are worth it and rather would have everyone else accept the damage they are doing to themselves.
Some posters are claiming acceptance of "overweight" people is increasing. Hardly.
What is happening is the routine emergence of the PC police, dictating how we are to think and express our opinions about others.
That's called tyranny, not acceptance.
Researchers have demonstrated time and time again that the preponderance of "overweight" people have deitary and exercise issues. They are not destined to be "overweight".
It's high time the debate centered on healthcare costs associated with diseases related to being "overweight", and how THE REST OF US are paying the bill. No one sympathized with smokers, and I'm not going to sympathize with "overweight" people who don't have a real medical disorder causing their weight problem.
It's time to view the "overweight" people as we did smokers, no whining about your addiction, deal with it.
And stop looking for the PC police to save you from yourselves, and from having to take responsibility for your poor dietary and exercise habits.
I have figured it all out, women should be 5'6" tall and weigh 150 lbs, men should be 5'9" and weigh 165. Anyone who is over or under this requirement should be denied Employment, Healthcare, Clothing, transportation, etc and should be sent to an island so that the "normal' folks will not have to look at them. That way we can all live in peace.
I LOVE that idea! Is is a Caribbean island? Can I leave my skinny children with the Normal people?
I am the gramma of four beautiful, slim teenage girls whose moms have raised them on healthy,nutritious food. Consequently, they will never be obese with unhealthy consequences.. Overweight people are just not honest about their unhealthy life style. And yes, they are contributing greatly to America`s health care cost .
And I can find examples of people who eat vegetarian diets are still do not fit into the societal norms of weight. You can also find folks who eat everything they want and never have an Obese BMI. Genetics, environment, stress, etc have more to do with folks being unhealthy and sometimes overweight than the amount of folk they consume. I lose weight when I am not stressed and am able to get an average of 8 hours of sleep per night, but you would think that if I gained weight it was because I was being lazy and overeating. On my bad days, I get no sleep, have many assignments, and eat only one meal. Guess what happens? I gain weight.
You wrote: Consequently, they will never be obese with unhealthy consequences..
You say they will NEVER be obese? You don't know that for sure and people who eat healthy and exersise are at the same risks of heart disease and cancer just like everyone else. I am a slim women always ate right exersised never smoked and have been battling cancer for 5yrs now. Yes overwieght people take more of a risk at certain problems but to make a statement like you just did is ridiculous.
And my mom is a vegetarian, health-nut dance instructor, and she's overweight. Anecdata is nothing but anecdata, and mine cancels yours out.
I think it's about time we all dealt in the real. Fat people make up half or more than half of our population. They live, work, date, marry, have kids. Being fat doesn't stop them from having a fulfilling life. But for the vast majority, being fat is about their lifestyle choices. And to those who don't respect sloth or overindulgence, fat is not attractive. Period. The reason the Biggest Loser is popular is not because there are fat people on the show. It's because there are people who are working hard to transform themselves. It's the hard work that is inspiring and worthy, not the sloth and overindulgence. Indeed, it is shocking that human beings can let themselves get that fat in the first place. If a show features fat people falling in love, or fat people drinking, eating or working or whatever, the show will only be successful if it is extrremely well written, funny, or really entertaining. I'd only watch a show like that if it offered something other shows did not. Otherwise, I find nothing particularly interesting about fat people doing their thing. I have no hate or animosity towards them, but it's just not something I want to look at or emulate. And I don't think it's unfair to say that intimacy between extremely large people can be a real turn off.
I am a middle-aged, Plain Jane, fat lady. Having been heavy my entire adult life I struggle daily to eat healthier foods and portions and remain active. I have to work with what genetics gave me in the looks department and my lower-middle income allows for clothing and accessories. I know I am not one of the “pretty people.” My value to family, friends, co-workers, and loves, has not been driven by how they see me but how I see myself, which is beautiful in spirit, intention and action. And yet…HERE IS THE PAINFULLY HONEST PART, FOLKS…I appreciate that the visual performance and entertainment fields are saturated with folks who are any combination of good or great looking; slender, great skin and hair, fashionable wardrobes, nice buns, abs, boobs, sparkling white teeth, etc. I enjoy looking at hot people. So sue me. I’m perfectly happy that there are stunning men and women on TV and in the movies. It’s not the real world I live in. Its fantasy and diversion. The part I do have a problem with is the media distinction between what is acceptable for men and not women.
I am a plus sized woman & my husband is a heavy man! And to hear what was said in comments and from Marie Claire's Maura Kelly are so disheartning, its pitiful. What makes her any different than Juan Williams saying that Arabs make him nervous when he gets on a plane? She is saying that fat people dont deserve to be seen on TV let alone in public. She needs to be fired. Her views are beyond rude, considering she works for a magazine for & about women. Like one of the bloggers said on here.........We are not all size 6. And I LOVE MIKE & MOLLY! Not only because they remind me of the white version of my husband and I, but because they are funny! THEY ARE FUNNY! The whole show is funny! His partner and her Mom and Sister!
To Stephanie..... You have not seen the show. There is variety of people on the shuw. You speak out of turn. ( you must be like the bullies they are doing news stories on- you fit the criteria. Your mom would be proud-NOT, shame for you).
Ignorance is a choice too.
What is so discouraging to me is that people feel I'm lazy or that I enjoy being overweight or obese, when this is in fact not true. I weighed 104 pounds in college but that was because I was starving myself. I would binge on the most heinous food one day and the next six days I would do nothing else but drink liquids. But 12 years later here I am at 250 pounds and battling the bulge everyday. I have done everything from Weight Watchers to Jenny Craig to a physician-supervised liquid diet to hiring a personal trainer. All of these options have worked for a little while but not long term. About 4 months ago, my physician discovered that I had a thyroid problem after I went into her lamenting about the fact that I was working out for an hour a day, five days a week and following a 1,500 calorie diet and was not losing any weight. If I had my way, I wouldn't be this way. I'm single. I would like to find a guy but the ones I'm attracted to find someone at my weight repulsive and feel like the Marie Claire.com author. I would like to fit comfortably in the seats at the football stadium or not get on a plane and have people look at me, hoping I won't sit next to them. The rest of my family is of normal size. The last guy I dated, came over to my place and saw a family picture and was taken aback because I think he assume they'd be like me and then was shocked to realize that I'm the anomaly in the family. And I have dealt for years with my parents telling me that if I "lost x number of pounds I would be so cute." At the end of the day, we're human too. We have feelings just like those without a weight problem, and we bleed the same color as everyone else.
Great show! Pleasing everyone will not happen. For ones prejudice against bigger people, use your remote – that's what it's for. The show is real, the story line is real. It's refreshing to see a new show & idea, not another remake!
GO TEAM..... & Thank you for originality.
Why does it have to be all or nothing? Isn't it possible to treat PEOPLE respectfully without condoning their unhealthy BEHAVIOR?
This is no different than ignorant and angry views on Mexican, Blacks, Gays, and even going into simple freedoms such as the way people dress and religion. Those old demons of the Nazi brigade are stronger than ever. Everyone in this country is free and equal. This crap with the bullying others into a single frame of mind and way of being is evil. That is why our country is suppose to be free. That is why we are fighting bullies in schools. That is why black people vote and live next door. That is why we helped free the jews in world war 2. That is why mentally disabled people are functioning members of society. That is why womens health care is expanding. That is why our babies are being saved. That is why we have foster homes for children. That is why women can vote and work and wear pants! That is why we help others in natural disasters. That is why we are looking for a cure for breast cancer and aids. Listen, the list goes on. If you have been touched by any issue where people have had respect and compassion for you or a loved one and are grateful for it. If you have ever stood up to fight for your beliefs or even for someone else. Then WHAT the hell is the problem here with "fat people". Don't walk around with that demon hanging out of your a**!
Obesity is a choice. Accepting it as a society is very very bad. The healthcare costs for an obese person are much higher than a health person (I said health, not anorexic!) and the quality of life for an obese person is lower too. Don't encourage obesity. I'm not saying treat them bad or make fun of them, BUT STOP GLORIFYING IT!
to paraphrase Sara Silverman, it's not ok in my eyes to make fun of overweight women, yet society thinks it is. But it's ok to be a fat guy. Look at King of Queens. The fat guys get the "hot" women. Society thinks it's ok to be a fat guy, but if you're not the stereotypical prototype woman, you're just wrong.
The greatest love of my life was a big fat guy. I miss him terribly.
Not everyone is fat because they overeat, some are because of surgeries, disease, pain, injuries, medications etc, that change their metabolism or have them unable to exercise as they would like. It's also expensive to eat well. All those less expensive starch diets put on those pounds. Like everything else in life, time will tell that you too will be surprised at what will come to be for you.
again keep your comments to yourself if you don't like the show, then watch something else, that is why there is other channels to choose from.
Yes, Fat and gay shows/movies are out !!!!!!!!!!!!
this is an outrage. if you don't like the show don't watch, you judge the show by the characters who are heavy. what is wrong with heavy gal finding a nice guy on the show? not every one is a size 2, this person who made comments on this should not be allowed to give advice on anything. i have never saw the show fully, but what i seen the show is not bad. there are a lot of other shows don't interest me, and if that is the case for this person if the show is uninteresting to you, keep your comments to yourself. the show is decent. from someone on the plump side
Get off your high horses. Your medical costs also go up because of premature babies, alcoholics, smokers, type A personalities, distracted drivers, hypochondriacs, infertility, those with cancer. I can go on all day. Why single out fat people? Everyone has their demons. A fat person might wear their "issues' so you can see them, but your "issues" might be invisible to the public. If we could all see what you do to cope, we might be disgusted too.
No the readers aren't being too hard on the writer, and if they have any sense they will stop buying the magazine. Expressing her own bigoted perspective as perfectly fine is far more offensive than the fat people she so dislike
What both authors seem to be missing is the fact that big MEN have been on TV and in the movies since the beginning. It's big WOMEN that are new on the scene. I struggled to come up with even a few big women I could remember having a significant role in either movies or TV. Rosanne Barr, the actress who played Mammy in Gone with the Wind, and a couple characters in primarily black sitcoms which were actually men dressed as large women. That's it. If a woman appearing in a TV series packs on a few pounds, she is told to lose it. When a man develops a beer gut, nobody cares. The worst part is the fat, bald, stupid guys always have these beautiful, smart, thin women hanging off their arms, which gives the message to all the fat guys watching that they can get a princess even though they are toads and they shouldn't "settle" for a big girl. It's a horrible double standard.
Wasnt there a show called Roseanne that had a lot of sucess? They were fat.
Obesity is a real health concern. I have struggled with my weight for years and am finally winning the battle. The fact is that very few people are happy with bodies. We all have insecurity without negative hypocritical people trying to put us down. I am a size 12/14 .. not 6.
What is sad about TV and Movies and the Media in general is their definition of "Fat". A size 12 is considered Plus Size. According to many sources size 12 is the average dress size for the American woman. I am happy to see show like Mike & Molly. Most shows/movies that feature plus size actors/actresses degrade the characters because of their weight with bad jokes and situational humor.
Live and let live people. Live and let live.
When someone is capable of forming statements full of such hatred about people they've never known or met, they themselves, are just unhappy. They are the same people that work themselves into an angry frenzy everyday about things they can't or will never control. There will always be overweight people. There will always be skinny people. And apparently, there will always be people who blame societal problems on things that they conveniently don't struggle with themselves. Don't wanna watch fat people? Turn it off. Don't wanna be fat? Go to the gym. Don't wanna be an angry unhappy person filled with hate? Stop concerning yourself with other people and how they live their lives. You will never succeed in changing another human being.
For the record, I do not believe that having a sitcom about overweight people is in any way glorifying or as some of you are suggesting, encouraging obesity. That is absolutely ridiculous. No man woman or child will watch that show and wish to be overweight.
If they didn't cost me money I wouldn't care. When other peoples inability to control their weight starts impacting me and costing me money, I care. Any argument that they don't increase the cost of healthcare in the US and cost me money either directly (Medicare/Medicaid for obese people) or indirectly (increased cost of healthcare in general) is being willfully ignorant.
Morbidly obese people (any of you "plus sized" people who argue that you aren't morbidly obese are also mentally unstable) need to lose weight. Why do we need healthcare reform? Because of all of the fat people sucking the system dry? Your joints hurt? Lose 120 pounds and call me in the morning. Your heart hurts after you run up a flight of stairs? Oh, that's right you take the elevator everywhere you go.
Fat people are disgusting and I am tired of them being catered to. Just for the record I too have gained 10lbs....but I stopped eating 6000 calories per day and began exercising again. Amazingly enough, the weight went away. Oh, I know, it's a gland problem
Cobbler Lover, your comment confuses me. I have a BMI of 33, which falls in the obese, but not the morbidly obese category. I wear a size 16, which, in at least some lines of clothing, is plus sized. Why does this make me mentally unstable?
If my joints hurt (they don't), how would losing 120lbs, which would make me 30lbs under the lowest "healthy" weight for my height, help? If my heart hurt when I ran up the stairs (it doesn't), how would not taking an elevator when I'm pushing a stroller help, when I already swim laps for 1/2 a day? How can I stop eating 6000 calories a day, when I currently take four days to eat that much? Please enlighten me.
FAT PEOPLE ARE NOT HEALTHY. NO ONE SHOULD BE LOOKING AT THEM AND FEEL GOOD ABOUT THEMSELVES.
As far as overweight folks driving up healthcare costs, did it occur to you that injuries caused via sports at all levels and even injuries in personal activities like skiing, skateboarding, etc. also drive up healthcare costs. Let's just ban everything that might possibly cause someone to get hurt or sick. If people are required to maintain a certain weight then everyone else must stop golfing cause God forbid you get hit in the head with ball and get knocked out and put on life support, btw have you completed your advance directive Truthiness?
I think the Marie Claire writer should be fired. Shame on her.
Also: I was told last spring that I am diabetic. In 2 months time with daily walks and changes in diet (eating chicken instead of burgers, not eating after 8pm) I lost 40 pounds. I inadvertantly discovered that losing weight is pretty damned simple to do, IF YOU WANT TO LOSE THE WEIGHT BADLY ENOUGH. I was faced with a choice of losing weight or sticking needles in my body several times a day and I lost the weight. What motivates you?
Your post should be at the top Roger! Congrats on discovering willpower and not caving in to the majority of the lazy mindset posted here that believe they are stuck being fat. I've always said if you don't like the way things are, change it! i.e-Take the fork out of your mouth!
I have had to deal with comments from close family that I will never be sucessful or in a good relationship due to my weight. To then have mass media confirm that stupidity disgusts me. Many differences in a person are taboo to discuss in our society but yet weight is a "Free for all". I say live and let live
Anyone equating overweight people with heroin addicts doesn't need to be speaking in public. Her brain is broken to have made that connection in the first place.
Tell the truth, you like to shoot up some Brer Rabbit syrup now and again.
Here’s the thing, the fats are the new gays. Remember the collective gasp and shock when Ellen came out on her show? We ran her right off the air. But then a few years later most of the nation was a having a gay old time welcoming Will and Grace into our lives and now Ellen is back better than ever. Our representation of normalcy in the US is far from perfect, but give people time to get over themselves and their ‘sensibilities’ and hopefully in a few years fat people on TV will be less shocking and we’ll move onto the next group of people who need to be mainstreamed onto our television programming. And yes, I too am a fat person.
No, you are NOT being too hard on the Marie Claire writer. Comments like hers are personal and speak to the lowest common denominator – i.e. people with no class. There is no need to turn what COULD be a calm discussion into a biased opinion piece. yes, we all know about the certain bottom percentage of folks that will say all the ugly crap (a large percentage right here on this page), but shouldn't a journalist write with an eye toward unbiased, reasonable, professional discussion, not biased gossip?
One look at the picture up top and I already dont want to watch the show based on that alone.
It seems that weight is the "final frontier" when it comes to socially acceptable forms of segregation and intolerance. I agree with the comments that suggest shows that feature a diverse group of people are more reflective of our society than shows that feature solely slender or overweight characters. Tolerance of all types of people is the important overarching issues.
First, I am an overweight girl, Im working my hardest to get healthy and fit. Not fit by the way hollywood seems to think girls should be. But I dont think advocating obesity is a good thing, tho raising awareness that they are human beings is needed. Healthy and curvy is different and to say that a curvy perhaps slightly overweight woman is disgusting is wrong. Chances are everyone of us has an overweight friend? I do think what was said in that magazine article is awfuland intolerant. I understand being concerned for the health of overweight people 100% but to say they are disgusting? I get where she is coming from a little too in comparing obesity to drug addictions, but seriously, show some class.
Christina Hendricks for the friggin WIN
i just love all these indignant comments about how "skinny" people have health problems too. sure they do, but being massive is statistically PROVEN to increase your chances of having a whole array of chronic and often deadly diseases.
it is also, in my eyes, generally unsttractive to be fat. so is being skin and bones. maybe it's just animal instinct but i find a healthy toned body more attractive... i expect it's my subconscious seeking a strong healhty mate so i have a higher chance of producing strong healthy children.
i find it disturbing that so much of our society is trying to push the idea that fat is beautiful. it is just as evil as presenting the waif thin image as beauty. both are unhealthy. all this dancing around the fat topic trying not to offend fat people is ridiculous. pretending being fat is ok doesn't make it so.
No, being overweight is not healthy (period). But fat people exist and should be treated with respect just like everyone else. If you don't like it then dont' date them and/or don't look at the show, but don't be disrespectful either.
I am sure there other characteristics that you don't like but it doesn't mean that they should roll over and die to make you or anyone else comfortable. Give me a break! It's nothing wrong with self love, fat or not.
Find another focus, world peace, poverty, domestic abuse, etc...
I think Maura Kelly has the right to express her opinion. And yes I am overweight. I fail to see how someone can be so narrow-minded. I don't like being fat and I have trouble doing something about it. However, that being said, beauty is more than just the outside appearance. The inside matters too. I have no idea what Ms. Kelly looks like but after reading this article, I don't care how pretty or how thin she may be....I would never find her beautiful. Life is about more than you clothes or your body. It's about your soul.
Seeing a fat chick with cottage cheese on her thighs or rolls on her stomach makes me want to VOMIT. DISGUSTING!
Who cares about starving kids in some foreign land out of sight – I want me some ox tail with gravy, right now.
This is a very touchy subject for a number of people, on both sides of the argument. One person previously commented that its not as easy as simply changing your diet and regular exercise, a somewhat mis-worded statement. It is that easy, because those are the two steps you would need to take; however, actually taking those steps is what is not so easy. After years (decades?) of eating certain foods and having a regular routine (which does not include regular exercise) it is very hard to step up and make those changes to start improving your life, but it is absolutely worth it. Numerous studies have shown that people DO judge fat people based on appearances. Look at some of the most successful people in the US (or even the world) – do you see any obese people there? The heavier you are the more likely you are to be judged.
Another important statistic that should be examined is how this impacts healthcare costs. Overweight & Obesity related medical expenses accounted for 9.1% of total US medical expenditures in 1998 (stats courtesy of CDC). This number, one must assume, has only gone up as more and more people have become overweight and obese since that time. These economic costs impact ALL of us and increase OUR healthcare costs and taxes, as Medicare & Medicaid pay for a significant portion of these costs (approximately half, again as of 1998).
This is one of the biggest reasons I personally have an issue with obesity and people's unwillingness to make the changes necessary in their lives to combat it. YOU are costing ME money. How is that reasonable?
What debate?
If you like to stress your heart, can't move around easy or have any activity without pain all over your body, especially as you get older and indulge yourself into an early grave, go right ahead.
Ya ain't hurtin my feelings, honey bun.
Burb – now hand me what's left of those ribs, cos I can't reach over.
how could anyone be upset at someone who is a raging narcissist? of COURSE she thinks that shes better then anyone who isnt super skinny. she probably thinks shes better then EVERYONE else. but because we are all talking about her gives her validation that she is a real journalist. she has the intelligence of a 5th grader and we are giving her our time, so who is really to blame?
Bottom line, the show stinks and does not fit in with the CBS Monday night lineup at all. I could care less about the size of the actors as long as a show makes me laugh. This show makes me turn the channel.
This is no different then American society not being willing to watch a "black" or "hispanic" show. These prejudices must stop. Who wants to see the same anorexia people who are rich and do drugs complain about how bad their lives are because they didn't get invited to fashion week? But at the same time great old America give us freedom of speech and it wouldn't really be a blog without some ignorant comments. I have never watched the show, but I wouldn't turn the channel because I saw overweight people. That's just ridiculous! FYI, I am a size 4 in case the "weightist" were wondering.
If a person is fat it is their choice. I am sorry, but if you were to be stranded on a desert island with too little food to eat every day, eventually you would die, and you would not die fat. I am not promoting anorexia, but I am saying it is a matter of math, if you burn more calories than you take in, you will lose weight, there is no rocket science here. Obesity is unhealthy and unattractive, if you choose to not watch what you eat and not exercise then you should be prepared to deal with the consequences. I am not saying you should be super model thin, but you should be healthy, and if you are healthy you will look and feel better.
Skinny people die everyday.
Give me a break...these comments are really scary, does anyone realize you sound like a bunch of HITLERS?
Let's see, with the gay agenda, we're being told people are intolerant for not accepting the gay lifestyle, that it's not a choice to be gay, who would choose to be gay? In fact, the gay agenda is being crammed down our throats of which I'm sick of hearing.
But, DFAR says that being overweight IS a choice and it's as simple as doing the math.
Ok...then, the next time someone tells me gays are born that way...I'll tell them to do the math, it's THEIR choice.
Please, please...walk a mile in my shoes....literally. I DO exercise, I do eat healthy food, DFAR, when was the last time you biked 8 miles or did an 1.5 hour aerobics session? I DO these things and I'm STILL heavy dear!!!!!!!
Sometimes, ya gotta' accept what God has given ya and for me....let me say....most of these comments come from shallow people...who's intolerant?
I'd like to know why it's okay to say to someone "You're so skinny" but it's rude to say "you're so fat" Telling someone they are skinny is just as rude. I am very thin....and very ill. To call me "lucky" as some have, is ignorant beyond words. When you don't know someone, commenting on their body weight is just wrong. Period.
The only reality show I ever watched was "Hoarders" and it was appauling. Reality TV plays to the truly uneducated....I could care less what the "issue" is: I don't watch comedies either. In fact, except for :Dexter" which I watch online, I don't watch much tv.
So, instead of sitting in front of a tv, you sit in front of a computer monitor?
Honestly, when I started seeing the ads for the show, I was thinking "oh goody, another cheap shot at overweight people". Then I watched the first ep, and now am watching regularly. The show's writers are AMAZING. So far they have avoided turning the show into a "joke about fat people" if you know what I mean. The casting is very nice as well. If they continue handling the show this way, I can see myself watching the show for a very long time.
Regarding the Marie Claire blogger, come on, she did it for kicks and giggles and to bring in traffic to the site. The shock value, I am sure, brought a TON of people to their site, am sure. Was it offensive? Sure was, but I don't take it seriously either, as I have serious doubts that it had any other intent but to bring in people to the website. It's an EXTREMELY OLD trick. Oh, and yes, I am overweight by about 75 lbs. I became overweight as an adult, and I am not going to go into explanations to trolls.
Anyone who is shallow enough that they think that larger people shouldn't be on television is an idiot. There is nothing wrong with people who are heavy. I personally am 6'1" and weigh 150, so i can not say how they would feel. But who has the right to judge anyone? The fact that they are using more "plus sized" actors in tv and movies is commendable in my opinion. We should all have access to the same rights and abilities as anyone one else. We have seen in recent years that many of the "beautiful people" seen in movies cant act at all. For instance, Megan Fox, yes she is a beautiful girl but her acting skills are that of a 7th grader in a school play. Yet on the other hand, Nikki Blonsky of Hairspray fame can act and is a very beautiful girl. Most people need to think before they speak and realize that their comments can truly hurt others. I look forward to more normal sized people on television so my daughters dont feel they have to look like supermodels to be gorgeous. I see too many children today hurting themselves or having a low self image because they aren't Victorias Secret ( she doesnt have any left) lookalike models.
If art is suppose to mirror life then more people of all sizes, shapes, and races should be on the tv and movie screens.
Evertime I see a skinny person, I want to give them money for food. But then, that would be food that I wouldn't get, so eff 'em.
I hate being fat and I don't want to be "accepted." I want to lose weight and positive, thin role models are helpful not harmful.
This is a big deal because the media – as well as the ability to post hurtful things anonymously – is making it a big deal. Does anyone remember the Roseanne show? Or how about All in the Family? Fat Albert? These shows were long-running hits and prove that overweight TV stars are not a new concept. Just get over it. If you don't like it, don't watch it. If it offends you that people don't want to watch it, too bad.
Add "Good Times" to the list of old shows with a large main cast, well, except for "J.J."
to the person way up top who complained about their 5 year old neice's not wanting to be fat to the point of not wanting a cookie or crying when she outgrew her pants. Well you say you and your boyfriend are very much overweight. When you pass by people laugh and joke behind your back saying things like "earthquake"... your neice sees that. She does love you but she hears the comments and sees the looks you get and as much as she loves you she doesn't want that for herself. Not saying that she is right to be so paranoid about her weight but I think your own weight issue has something to do with it.
I have not seen this show but I love the actress from Gilmore Girls! I don't see what the problem is, this is by no means a new collaboration. TV has shown heavy couples before. Roseanna was not a size 6 neither was Dan. I am plus size and I accept everyone weather they are thin, gay, black or purple. We all have our own demons to fight and mine just happens to be weight and apparently those people who get physically sick from staring at fat people.. well they have other demons.. and obviously not love in there heart! Its not like Im asking you to marry me and love me. Im asking for you to give me respect!
I think Mike and Molly is one of the funniest shows on television these days regardless of the size of the actors.
Now that I think about it. That's what made KING OF QUEENS such a great show. The characters were all different sizes and his best friend was black. This made for some great comedy... more down to hear situations even though they were exaggerated. Hey I love me some BBW's.. so I guess i'm biased. WIth the popularity of BBW websites adn groups. I think there is a misconception regarding men's Taste. Women should stop looking at People and other magazines with Airbrushed beauties, this sets unrealistic expectations. Just my opinion.
Overweight and obese people have no one to blame but themselves. I was overweight at one point, and it is not a healthy lifestyle. There is no such thing as fat and healthy. Look in the mirror and take some initiative. In addition, I do not want nor will I endorse a show with overweight people as a model for normal living. Stop blaming society and just lose the weight.
Wow ok John so you're saying over weight isn't healthy and shouldn't be used as a role model. Does that mean you feel it's ok then to use skinny actors as a role model?
As for the show King of Queens, I hated that show and any other show that made it seem normal for an obese male to be with female who was not obese. Where are the shows that show us an obese female with an average sized male? No where, every time you see an obese female she's with an obese male. Even the cartoon family guy follows the fat guy with a skinny wife BS.
For your info Rose it is normal I for one am in a marriage where my huband is double my size, Your so ignorant.
I think everyone has a right to an opinion. The problem with some people is that they believe people should have freedom of speech only as long as they -agree- with what the person is saying.
Do I agree with what's being said against fat people? No. But everyone does have a right to say whatever the heck they want, and if we want the same right, we really need to back off.
Truthfully..this show Mike and Molly is skewed. It is very apparent that the creators have no idea how the BBW/BHM and those who love them work. 1st there is rarely a fat/fat couple. either the man is thin and likes his women with meat or the woman is thin and likes to be in the company of a big burley man. that's not to say it doesn't happen..it's just statistically wrong. 2nd - it is good to have this discussion because I can say, from my POV, we fat chicks aren't going away anytime soon ..so learn to deal with us.
People who are overweight can choose to loose weight. I have seen it time and time again. Just like an alchoholic can quit drinking. It is very hard to do. Our friends neighbor was 5'4" and 250 lbs. She started walking/jogging early in the morning every morning. When she was able she stepped it up with "boot camp's" at local gyms. She is very inspirational and keeps those in her neighborhood motivated by running still and recruiting people to run with her. She lost more than half of her body weight and looks great. I know that loosing weight is very hard. People lack the will and motivation to change. McDonalds are on every corner and will sell you a bucket of lard for $.99. It is just as hard for alcoholics to stop drinking. It truly is a life changing decision. I personaly don't mind watching overwieght people. I am however turned off to obese people. It is disgusting to hear them struggle for air as they suffocate under the layers of heavy flesh covered FAT. They hemorage sweat when the have to step up a stair or two. It is sad to watch them stuff their faces at the food courts as they ride around in motorized wheelbarrows. It is a health issue. Smoking is a disgusting habbit and just as distructive to your health. They make the price of ciggarettes $8 and prohbit public smoking in an attempt to dissuade people from smoking. There has got to be some way to inscentives the obese to seek help for their condition. It is a massive public health issue here in the United States.
That is inspirational to you?? Wow. Doesn't take much to inspire the ignorant, I guess.
Why is it that "healthy" food tastes like s**t? I'll take my chances.
I think you have to take forum discussions with a grain of salt. Because of the relative anonymity of their posts, people tend to be a lot more mean and insulting than they would in real life. They're also quick to jump on the "I'm outraged at anything" bandwagon. That's usually what will draw a normally sane and caring person to say things like, "All fatties should drop of this earth. You make me sick."
That said, I think it's really admirable that there is a show like Mike and Molly, which happens to focus on two plus sized people living normal lives. After all the weight loss and obese sensationalist shows, people see anyone who's overweight as a circus freak from times past, a target for their ignorance, pettiness and misplaced perceptions.
This also highlights a double standard. Who really is the target here, both people, the plus sized couple? Or just Molly, the plus sized woman? Because for years we've had tv shows with a pretty, thin little wife and a plus sized or not-so-attractive husband. So why is a show like King of Queens easily watched and accepted, while a show like Mike and Molly is the target of ire? I think it's more because SHE is obese, rather than him. Tell the truth, would all you fattie-haters be up in arms if she was thin and he was the same size? The simple answer is no, because you never have been before.
You should really think about what this says about you, and what it teaches your daughters.
And at least try to watch the show. I've watched shows where I thought the main characters were terribly unattractive before, and by a few episodes, I saw them in a different light because I was so caught up in their character and storyline. For most people, if they just look at the personalities of the characters, the story, the writing of the series, will find that they can look past the fat and see people.
@ Stephanie – Two and A Half Men, Lost, Seinfeld, King of Queens.. there are more.
Lisa, I read your first article and exclaimed that it was exactly what I was talking about a week prior when I had first seen the Mike & Molly show. I asked my grandmother who wanted to watch the show if the show was just about them being overweight & then making comments about it during the show. She replied "No", but she was quickly proven wrong within the first few minutes of the show.
I understand the underlying message of the show, but a large percentage of the script relies on talking/joking about their size and all that that implies.
I didn't like the show for that reason. I don't think that it would be unacceptable to write a show that stars two over-weight persons without making nod after nod about their size. But because society as a whole has a general low tolerance for those who are plus-sized, we cannot sit through 20 minutes of prime time television without needing to feel better about what we are seeing by poking fun at it.
I think that the show would be far more hilarious and successful if it focused on their personality differences, rather than their size opposed to the supporting cast.
All that to say, I don't encourage those who are over-weight to be complacent with their lifestyle and make everyone just accept them for who they are on the inside. But my problem comes in when I start thinking about how long with this person survive if they continue to not take care of themselves? Again, I'm not saying that all who are plus-sized live terribly and are lazy, which is the stereotype. It's much easier said than done, but everyone should strive to take care of themselves the best way that they can – by exercising and eating right.
I'm very aware that people who are thin are also within the danger zones of certain diseases or death. So many people (and celebrities) who appear to live healthy lives die very suddenly. However it is proven that being over-weight can contribute to certain diseases.
I guess the bottom line is that we should all take care of ourselves, not jump to conclusions about others' way of life. If you are healthy, then that's all that matters. I just wish that shows like "Mike & Molly" won't have to rely on weight-related script writing to get their audience through the show. They should be watching because of the characters they create, and a story that compels.
I love the show Mike and Mollie. There's something so sweet and innocent between the actors that could only happen with two people who haven't had much dating experience. Being overweight seems like as good a vehicle as any to achieve that. It would be fun if the actors lost weight with their overeaters anoymous meetings and we the audience got to follow them on their journey and how it affects their relationship with each other and their friends and family. The worst actor on the show is the actress that is probably in the best physical shape and that's the sister. She may be fit but the emoting and over acting is barely tolerable. They can convey her stupidity without turning her into an irritating cartoon. I'll take overweight over stupid any time.
I, personally find obese people to be unsightly to look at. I ignore that inclination and have friends that are obese. Do I have my own problems? Yes. I'm a smoker and can't seem to break the habit, so I DO understand addiction. Many of my friends have quit over the recent years not just because of health reasons, but also because smoking is not accepted in much of society any more. There is a negative stigma to it. I don't think it is good to accept people abusing their bodies by over-consumption and lack of exercise. My experience ,between this country and others, dictates that most people don't even know what a healthy weight IS anymore. People have to be obese before most people would see them as overweight. It is a serious problem and through negative social sanctions we can reduce the problem. The TV show is fine, I just hope that they address the weight issue in it. Note: The Hollywood THIN (anorexic) image is just as bad and destructive for even MORE reasons.
This article implies that some people consider a size 6 to be thin? Is that what people think? I thought a 6 was pushing it - maybe because they have shrunk the sizes to the point that what used to be a 2 is now not just a 0 but a 00.
Stick people are gross. Bones are creepy. Marilyn Monroe was, I believe, a size 12 or 14. I'm a man who PREFERS a woman with a figure. You can keep your Kate Moss and Paris Hilton. I'll take a "real" woman any day of the week.
I'm real thick in the thighs. I have large breasts. I have a phat azz. Men love FiyatrUCKin me as much as they can. I wish I could fulfill one fantasy with the man I can't have though. downstammy@ymail.com
Honestly, as a plus sized woman myself…size 18 and 5’9” tall, it’s about time that shows are showing REAL people. What I find funny is did people beat up on Dan and Rosanne Connor (Rosanne) back in the 1988 thru 1997? I don’t remember hearing anything about them being overweight as actors and people being disgusted by them? I do believe that was a #1 show for many years, right? I didn’t read the Marie Claire article but if an article slams anyone, I’m pretty disgusted by that! ‘Nough said!
It really is gross watching...heck, even hearing obese people make it out and be initimate in general. I had a former roommate in college that was obese, and he got an obese girlfriend (I think his frist girlfriend at that). I'd be sitting in my room adjacent to the living room where they'd constantly 'mess around' while watching TV or whatever. It disgusted me, hearing two mouth-breathing fatties fondle each other....
So, Justin, you were sitting in your room while your obese roomate was "constantly" getting action? No wonder you are bitter.
I think it's dangerous to promote obesity as a "norm". Using the term "plus sized" is just a cute way of describing and excusing an unhealthy life style. How many morbidly obese people have you seen make it past their 60s? Lisa, if you're obese why try to be cute about it? Do something about it. I feel the same way about anorexia.
Aren't gyms where dudes go to meet other dudes?
I always thought Jim's was a resturant. Damn, I miss that place.
LETS CALL A SPADE A SPADE ,GAY PEOPLE KISSING ON TV THATS NORMAL? A GUY MARRIED TO FOUR WOMEN ? THATS NORMAL? ALL THESE PEOPLE MAKING NASTY COMMENTS ABOUT OBESE AND OVERWEIGHT PEOPLE ALL MUST HAVE SOME SORT OF ISSUES THEMSELVES, THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE. LOOK AT YOURSELF IN THE MIRROR FIRST BEFORE YOU JUDGE OTHERS. YOU MIGHT BE THIN AND BLOND BUT THAT DOESNT MEAN YOUR HEART AND MIND ARE BEAUTIFUL.
Very well put, Ms. Judy.
Fat chicks are much more fun in the sack...
After reading this I'm going to finish my bacon, chorizo, potato, egg, cheese, and jalapeno breakfast burrito and go punch a skinny person.
It should be obvious that we are being conditioned for another set of belt-tightening regulations. With our food supply routinely poisoned and growing more scarce we are being led to think of fat as disgusting and something to be reviled and discriminated against. During the last depression fat people were driven from food lines by thinner people. As food becomes more problematic fat people will be seen as major contributors to the shortages. I started shedding my own blubber a couple of years ago for the sake of my health. Now I'm glad I did it simply to be free from the snide remarks and outright discrimination. If you're not putting away some long term food NOW, you're going to really wish you had.
Grobbbbbbbbbbbb
I agree that being grossly overweight is generally unhealthy. However, so is anorexia, smoking, drug use, and heavy drinking. These are all "choices" that people make, so why do we not see the same level of viciousness directed toward the skin-and-bones models, the chain smokers, the meth addicts, and the sloppy drunks? Yes, in many cases being overweight is due to a person's bad eating habits and lack of exercise. But unless you know for sure, how can you judge a particular person? I'm overweight myself and would love to lose quite a bit. However, I eat healthy foods in reasonable portions (no huge platefuls), rarely eat fast food, vigorously exercise for an hour or two at least 4 days a week, don't smoke, and drink only sparingly and occasionally. My doctor says I'm in great health (BP, cholesterol, glucose, etc. are all excellent) and my body is toned, not flabby. What else would the fat-people-haters have me do? And before I hear the "eat less and exercise more" crowd - a few years back I was on a SUPERVISED program where I ate 1000 – 1200 calories a day, plus was required to exercise 1 1/2 hours daily (again, in a class), and I still could not lose weight. Short of actual starvation and over-exercising, I don't think there was much more I could have done.
Well said. BTW - my latest issue of Marie Claire just hit the garbage
can.
Why is this even an issue? If you do not want to watch a TV show about overweight people, there is a solution. It's called a remote control.
My remote control was broken when a fat woman sat on it.
I have been a size 18/20 pretty much my entire life. I have two great kids under the age of 6 and I have zero health problems. I play with them constantly (football, soccer, running, etc). I walk everyday. I am a single Mom who carries the boys, groceries, laundry up three flights of steps to my apartement every week. I care for my Mom on most weekends. I shower daily and smell very nice. I have a full time job and my ex husband does not pay child support or assist in any way with the care of our children. I am not lazy. I take no medication but daily vitamins. My favorite meal is salad, no dressing and baked chicken and skim milk. Yet, I am a size 18/20. Everyday the fit guy next to me at work makes a reference to my size. Because although I have to help him do his job, he feels he is a better person in general, because I am "fat and lazy". Even though on daily basis, I do twice as much as he does. The two actors on the show in reference are WORKING actors. They are not lazy either. They both are cute in my opinion. I have seen the show, it is funny, but hopefully it will focus more on building a relationship than the weight. I totally loved the Ellen show when she had her sitcom and supported her for coming out and letting her character be gay as well. However, the show stopped being funny when every episode totally about that. Anytime a show focuses too much on one thing, it loses it's audience. I hope they keep the show a bit less focused. Hands down though, the episdoe when all of them ended up on her floor had me laughing out loud and that had nothing to do with weight.....
I have never seen the show under discussion, but I love your post. Kudos to you for raising your boys, taking care of yourself, and working hard in spite of the weak, intolerant little assh*les of the world–like the one sitting next to you at the office. May God have mercy on him if he ever becomes overweight; he will probably kill himself.
Look. I don't find them cute. If you do then you are identifying with your size/weight. Great. Don't expect others to get on the same page. Be yourself, don't worry about other people.
So we've gone straight from lashing out against size 2-4's, on to embracing, even celebrating, being a size 32 ??? I'm worried.
Everyone is all about "freedom of speech" until it's about something involving them. Who cares? It's her right as an American to write what she feels. People say stuff you don't like all the time GET OVER IT. "BAAAAAAW SOMEONE SAID I LOOKE DISGUSTING WHEN I WALK ACROSS A ROOM"...then go to a gym/get surgery/etc. Stop eating your feelings and use that anger at a gym to work out harder.
While all of you people are ranting and raving and spewing vitriol under the guise of concern for the health of total strangers... you may want to take a little time away from your computers and seek a little help for your MENTAL health. Seriously... the fact that someone who doesn't look like you is repugnant to you... or the notion that "Not OK for ME means not OK for ANYONE" to you people is indicative of some serious thinking errors brought on by deep seeded personal and emotional issues with yourself,
Instead of worrying about the health of fat people... worry about being the best version of YOU that you can be... and if this IS the best version of YOU that you can be... then look forward to a long, physically healthy but mentally and emotionally sick hate filled and miserable life with people pretending they like you in hopes of making it into your will.
Personally, I'd rather die younger, fat, happy, and full of love..
It is the people like you that make this debate so heated. Let others think what they want. Basically what you are saying is the same as this other person. "If you don't feel like I do then you must be mentally sick." The fact that you don't leave youself open to other opinions and let the ones you don't agree with just roll off of your back puts you in the same catergory. Name calling, and trying to make others feel small tells me you have a self-esteeem issue. Maybe the other person has issues as well....maybe not; you certainly can't tell from the other side of a keyboard. Name calling is not the way to get your message heard.
Don't the women notice? I tried, but she got mad and kicked me out. So I took a dump on her doorstep. She can't see her feet so she probably didn't notice.
I love the show and agree with several others it is not groundbreaking! However America we need to relax everything on tv does not need to be analyzed to death. It is a tv show and its funny if you dont like the characters or the people playing the characters then dont watch.
Marie Claire and their writer should be ashamed and I will not buy their magazines again!
it is not about just the image because of the weight. my sister had a weight problem all her life and just died at age 52 her heart and body could not carry the weight anymore and she died. she had tie diabetes also and went blind from it. for some reason in our society it is not acceptable to smoke cigs or pot but you can be an acholic or eat yourself to death and hey thats ok!!! diet! and dont diet to wear clothes from 10 years ago or get into a bikini......lose weight so you will live.
Did you guys hear that? It was the newest edition of my Marie
Claire subscription hitting the trash can.
Did you have to catch your breath after throwing something in the trash?
FAT PEOPLE NEED GOVERNMENT HELP. I am huge and disabled at home from many medical conditions. I live in the South and eat fried foods like they are not going to be available after tomorrow. My food stamps aren't supposed to be used for prepared foods, but I've found a few people that will give me cash at .80 on the dollar and I buy what ever I want. Thank you Mr. Obama for taking care of me at the hospital with other people's money. I couldn't make it without you. P.S. They need to start allowing for seconds of Fried Chicken at Baptist Hospitals.
a) Yes the author of the Marie Claire article deserved the negative feedback. b) Obviously she was not expressing the sentiment of most of society. People certainly didn't find the "Roseanne" show too offensive even though it starred an overweight couple who often showed affection for each other. It ran 11 seasons and it won several Emmy and Golden Globe Awards.
And I'm NOT plus-sized.
Yes, the writer deserves the grief he/she is reeieving. The author clearly did NOT reread what was typed before hitting the send button.
Contrary to what the author wrote, it is not easy for everybody to drop their weight to a healthy number. And, I'm speaking from experience.
The entertainment industry does have a double standard when it comes to size. Heavy women very rarely get the lead role, but men will. There are not many heavy women in the music industry. Every female singer I've seen lookd like they are no bigger than a size 6!
Mike and Molly is one of my new favorite shows. Obesity is a big problem in our soceity, we all know this. But, to brush aside 2/3 of the nation under the rug because you are "grossed out" by them is not only rude, crude, and socially unacceptable – it further demonstrates this writers own insecurities about themselves. Larger people are part of this country, and it's about time they get represented as something other than a slothful loaf sitting on the sofa or some overeater shoveling food down their throats.
Mike and Molly take on real issues that pertain to real people. They consistantly speak of their weight issues and both attend an Over-Eater's Anoymous group. That sends the correct message. It allows those of us that do not deal with our weight to have a better understanding into the lives of those that do.
I am ashamed that someone at Marie Clare (of all publications) would find it appropriate to attack others – especially about weight. This is sending the wrong message to it's many teen readers. Many of which are already dealing with the daily battle of weight control. It further pushes the idea that big isn't beautiful and that those teens girls with weight issues aren't equal to everyone else.
Face it thinnies us fatties are here to stay! And guess what else...we are taking over America! MMMmmmm and it is very tasteful.
The comments here clearly show that overweight people have become the latest refuge for people who don’t have blacks, Jews, Hispanics Italians, fill in your ethnic group here, to pick on. Well, there’s always Arabs I suppose. You can rant all you want about them being unhealthy, although it’s interesting that the same people who argue that are also the ones who loudly defend smoking pot and legalizing all recreational drugs, which are, well, unhealthy. In the end you just think they are, like, gross and stuff. The mentality is still rooted back in junior high school level thinking. We’re obsessed with the mantis people. I would point out that Marylyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, and a lot of other Hollywood hotties of the past were size 14s. And no, for the record, I’m not plus sized, although I’m married to a wonderful girl who is.
I've been overweight (NOT obese, overweight) since I was a kid, and am well aware of the fact that it's not healthy. I've tried losing weight a million times and a million different ways, and it's a struggle. I'm a Wife, Mother, and I work a full time job. I don't think being overweight is something that should be "celebrated", but I also think that people need to be a little bit more sensitive. It's NOT easy to drop weight. People are all different, raised differently, and have different body types. I was teased about my weight as a child, and it didn't encourage me to lose weight. It made me extremely depressed and made me withdraw from other people. NOBODY is perfect, and I think that if there was an easy solution that didn't cost a bundle of $, most of us would be a size 4 by now.
That's the problem. You are waiting for some "cure all" for obesity. THERE ISN'T ONE! Also, saying you're a mother, wife, and work full time just makes you a normal person. Does that mean that single people with no children have no business being fat? The thing is....there's tons of them! It starts with eating right and exercising. Try taking the stairs at work and parking as far away as you can in the lot. Cut fast food completely. Don't drink sodas. The list goes on and on. Stop making excuses and start living healthier!
I don't care if there's a show with fat characters, doesn't bother me in the slightest. What absolutely sickens me is all of the ridiculous and pathetic euphemisms designed specifically to both absolve those who practice unhealthy lifestyles and confuse the discourse on this issue. Anyone who uses terms such as "heavy," "plus-sized," "big," "large," "curvy," and the like are simply not being honest with themselves. People so described are obese – fat. It's not healthy, it's not attractive, and it's their own fault. No amount of mewling about (incidentally extremely rare) glandular conditions, no degree of indignation at the suggestion by the level-headed among us that the fat are wholly personally responsible will change the fact that the fat are fat because they CHOOSE to be.
So, be fat. I don't care. But don't expect people to nod along with your disingenuous crap – we're sick of it.
Wait, what on Earth are you talking about? I cannot believe that everyone you know is the same body type. "Curvy" and "big" are most certainly not fat, and definitely not obese. As a hispanic female I can tell you that a lot of women in my family have big butts and breasts, but small waists – curvy, in other words. They aren't overweight. They don't have any health problems. They have CURVES. No one would look at them and call them fat. The same applies to my former roomie, who is 5'8". She's a big girl, but she's proportioned. Not fat. I think you need to straighten out your terminology before you go around making gross generalizations.
I think you need to read a bit more carefully before you get all up in arms. Did I say the words "big" or "curvy" must never be used in any context because there are fat people in the world? Find a dictionary, try again, and take it slowly this time.
As the Mom of an anorexic 12 year old who has been in treatment for a year now I would like to thank all of the idiots in the world who encourage young women to believe that a heart attack or stroke from starvation and over exercise is better than being normal or weighing 5 pounds more than a model in a magazine. What the hell is the matter with you people?
Get a grip! Stop blaming society and start thinking about the parenting job you've done thus far. NOBODY tells anyone else that being 5 lbs overweight is a bad thing. NOBODY! It was in her head that she needed to be model skinny. Your job is to teach her that beauty is not only on the outside and that she can be happy with her body. 5 lbs vs obese is a HUGE difference.
Chris,
So you go from being completely disgusted by fat people to telling a 12 year old that beauty is on the inside? I hope you don't have children.
Chris, I call BS on your comments. One parent standing in front of a massive media assault against our daughters? We can teach our daughters about self-esteem and healthy body image all we want, but the minute they walk out the door, open a magazine, see a movie, play a video game, open a textbook or turn on the television, they are instantly bombarded with direct and damaging messages...all saying they aren't beautiful unless they weigh less than 100 lbs. Every single aspect of our media culture pushes this message home to young girls. Get mad about THAT, why don't you?
To all these people that keep saying having fat people on TV is going to give the impression that it is okay to be obese: Most of the people on TV are super thin. Are you going to complain about that too? If not, you don't have any business trying to pick on actors for being overweight. Super thin people on TV give young girls the idea that it is normal to be that thin, which is usually impossible to do without starving yourself. They then have low self-esteem and start dieting at the age of 9, like I did! I have never been obese, but from what I have seen and read, seeing impossibly thin people on TV as the "norm" makes some obese people have lower self-confidence and eat more because they are depressed. I'm not saying to encourage obesity, but why can't we just treat people like they are normal people and not some disgusting slob because they have a weight problem? Being hateful doesn't help anyone! For some people, dealing with self-esteem issues could then help them have the confidence they need to get healthy and lose weight. Even if obese people are accepted in society, it doesn't mean that everyone is going to want to be fat. We all know the health issues that come with it, so why would anyone encourage it?
Life isn't an episode of Barney and Friends. This is the real work folks. Fat people do not need to be coddled. They need to realize that people feel disdain for them because they are disgusting. Obese people feel that it is ok to throw a sheet over themselves and that it is ok to go out in public like that...or worse work. Dress codes at work apply to fatties too! I just can't stand that people actually think we should feel sorry for them. It is something they did to themselves and I do not need to tip toe around them because they're insecure.
Chris,
If by treating them like normal people (because that's what they are) means tip-toeing around their feelings and coddling them, you have some serious issues to deal with yourself. Having 90 pound super models portrayed as America's "norm" when it clearly isn't, is an issue as well. Accepting people is something that should be taught. I guess you missed that episode of Barney when you were a kid, because you are clearly very hateful to people.
OMG!!! I could not read through all the comments that have been posted! I am currently overweight. Do I like it? No. Is this a CHOICE that I made for myself? No! Less than 5 years ago, I was a size 8 woman who worked hard at being healthy. Then I began a journey plagued with many, many health issues that didn't begin due to obesity. I have had many dx's, been put on countless meds just trying to survive, and had 5 surgeries in under a 2 year time period. So, am I "gross" because I am dealing with the aftereffects of trying to remain alive for my husband and children???
If you are lucky enough to be "skinny" and healthy (which is not one and the same), then wonderful! If you aren't one of those lucky few, try to take a step back instead of generalizing and realize that you might be (probably are) doing MAJOR damage by "sharing" your ignorant, uneducated views.
AMH,
Overwight does not mean obese. There are about 500 people in this country that are obese because of medical reasons and the rest are just lazy over-eaters. Overweight is normal, Obese is deadly. People who are obese are a huge problem for the medical world but, hey, let's all just not worry about health care costs going up because we wouldn't want to make them feel bad. Boo hoo. I can't stand the fact that I eat well and work out so that I am healthy but my medical costs still rise because of the fatties who stop in at McDonalds twice a day. Sorry, but I cannot share your sentiments.
I have never seen the show, but I love the argument it has brought about. There seem to be two extremes – those who cannot stand to even "see" overweight people, and who are very insulting about them; and those who defend them to the hilt saying there is "nothing wrong" with being overweight. Well, put me in the middle 90%, I suppose. I am overweight, but know it is not the best state. I think everyone has faults – I'd sure rather deal with someone who is obese than one of the truly self-righteous commentators I see on this board. I guess what is so funny is that with nearly 40% of the population overweight...I just cannot believe this is such a big deal. Hello?
Fat Hating is just another form of discrimination, like being anti-gay.
When I was a child, I was VERY active, played soccer, ran my ass off, and I was STILL FAT. I've been fat my ENTIRE LIFE. I was literally born big. Just like I was BORN GAY.
I'm so sick of well-meaning skinny people thinking that I should starve myself and exercise for months so I could make my body more aesthetically-pleasing to them. They're crazy.
People need to realize that human bodies come in different shapes and sizes. Get over your self-important skinny self.
We are lowering our standards if we don't make people watch they're weight. Obesity is now a bigger problem than smoking, and will be the downfall of our health-care system in the U.S. We should not accept the obese as who they are. They are not handicapped. They are either lazy or ignorant. They should not be praised for accepting who they are. They can be better people if they eat right, exercise and take care of there bodies.
Idiot. People come in different shapes and sizes. Not everybody CAN or SHOULD "lose weight" and conform to your version of an ideal body type. Do you ever think that losing all that weight could make us ill?
I eat less food than my skinny friends, and I'm still big, and they're still skinny.
I'm pretty sure your doctor wouldn't say it's OK to be overweight. You just need to work harder at it than others. Regardless of your DNA or family history, it is not OK to be overweight, and it is not healthy.
@ Beth – It isn't just how much food you eat, it's what you eat; if you're scarfing down a Cinnabon while your skinny friends are eating a taco you're putting more calories in your body! Think that salad is healthy? Not when you pour a gallon of ranch on it! And no, we normal sized people never considered that losing weight might make you ill because being overweight is not a natural state, in fact by being overweight you're more prone to chronic illness, which means more doctor visits, more medicines and so on. Fat is not healthy anymore than drug addiction or alcoholism is.
i can understand people having a problem with condoning destructive behavior except. . . . . for the Sopranos, Dexter, Breaking Bad, and every other show thats had main characters who Drank, Smoked, Killed, did drugs, womanized and or cut themselves.
so basically being fat is too far but drink drugs and murder is ok?
that being said i won't watch a show with 2 overweight and fat people like Mike and Molly because i honestly don't care about their problems with eating, i can' relate and it doesn't matter to me.
Clearly alcohol, drugs, and murder are entertaining and not nearly as common. Fat is just trite or should I say tripe? We have to look at it everyday since about 80% of the population is overweight, why should it fill the air waves too?!
The writer can write whatever she wants, but where is the managing editor of this publication (Marie Claire)? Why on earth would such an article make it to the news stand? It has absolutely no place in what is purported to be a "fashion" magazine. Whoever rubber stamped the final draft of this issue should be fired. End of story.
You're right. They need to get back to basics: stupid gossip about brainless, self obsessed celebrities, the latest diet craze, the latest idiotic fashion trend, the most recent pronouncement from an out of touch, drug addicted Italian fashion designer, and the news from the latest Paris fashion show with stick thin, coke snorting models wobbling down the aisle with silly clothes nobody will wear and nobody can afford. Let’s keep it real.
Being fat is the same thing as being an alcoholic or drug addict and should be treated the same way. Obesity is not a disease, it's a symptom of someone having a total lack of self control. The argument that losing weight isn't easy is as ridiculous as arguing that it's just too easy to eat that chocolate cake. It's called discipline, the same thing that makes the skinny people go running/biking/swimming; anyone who says they enjoy the misery of a hard workout is either a massochist or a liar. They do however, enjoy the feeling of doing something other than creating an impression on the sofa cushion with their backside while eating doritos and bon-bons.
so i guess you applaude the people who starve themselves and puke when they've eaten a pretzel? Thats just as unhealthy as being an overeater. Fact is... people are people... and we are all different sizes. We should have a, I dunno... ounce of humanity and care and support one another no matter what ails them. Fat is not a choice. Fit... is. Sometimes Fit and Fat... well they kinda look the same. Maybe not in your closed mind... but there are athletes who drop dead running just as much as fatties dropping dead with a doghnut in their hand. Have some humanity and be supportive... if you've watched this show... it shows the struggle it is to be fat... to know you need to do something about it... be on a diet and be tormented by the food that helps sustain you. Its really not an easy plight.
@Humanity – It's always so convenient for fat people to argue that being fat isn't a choice. Yes, it is a choice, to not stuff your face constantly. Overeating is a compulsion, just like gambling, and drug addiction, and yes, even anorexia. My girlfriend has food stolen out of her office fridge by the fat girls there all the time, no matter how clearly it's marked. The difference by decree is that anorexia is barely a blip in the map compared to the elephant in the public health room that is obesity. I've never once been to a restaurant in the suburbs I've seen filled with anorexics, but obese people can barely squeeze enough of their fat asses into an Outback or a Chili's, or whatever. Athletes dropping dead is another delusion fat people comfort themselves with. I've never once heard of an athlete drop dead that didn't have some type of narcotic in his system, but the morgues are filled with the donut holders of the world.
It is amusing to see all of you making huge deals about this as if it has never occurred before...sorry, has ANYONE on this planet heard of a little show they called "Roseanne".....I mean, seriously, maybe everyone is making a huge deal about these plus sized actors because the show is lacking with clever material....I also think it is rather ridiculous when they categorize a plus size model as size 14....if you weren't aware, Marilyn Monroe was a size 14....hmmmmm...
Leave all the fatties alone! My "hoggin" or "no pride" fridays in college would not have been possible without them. But beware – it takes a lot of booze to prevent the gag reflex when you feel a few rolls stacked up on each other.
@Stephanie : "Instead of featuring actors who are either very thin or very overweight, why can't we watch people who are normal sized"
i liked the point of the rest of your comments, saying that there should be more of an integration of different sizes of women and men. There might be one or two shows but those characters who are plus sized are usually the sidekicks and not portrayed in a positive light.
However, What did you mean by normal sized? What is normal size? According to our society and media, "normal" is what you are seeing mostly on tv now. You see smaller than size 5 women and athletic men (i am not familiar with mens sizes so i cannot comment on that). The average woman is a size 14-16-which most few as "fat" "overweight" "plus size"
Until we look at our portrayal of body types and what is glorified and what is objectified, we will not be able to adjust what we see on tv. I wish shows like HUGE on ABC family would stay on because it is an original show that is creative, and not just because the actors are plus sized. It gives people who aren't considered "normal" a chance to connect with people who look like them, and are experiencing similar issues as them (even thought it's just a tv show).
I understand that obese people don't like being ridiculed but at the same time it is a huge problem (pun intended). Obese people cost us millions in healthcare and it is only getting worse. Being overweight is one thing but to be categorized as obese means you are unhealthy and unwilling to work towards better health. This country is about 1/3 obese and I will be honest and say that obese people are simply disgusting to look at. That may be hurtful but the truth can hurt. It isn't my responsibility to support them and tell them nothing's wrong. They are adults and they got to where they are because they're lazy and eat far too much (of the wrong foods). It should be on them to remedy the problem but instead we are told to feel sorry for them and allow the madness to continue. Of course, their children will learn from them and keep the cycle going but, hey, we don't want them to feel bad for being a slob! Political correctness is OUT OF CONTROL!
I would think with all the bully reports and commercials we have right now that this Marie Claire article would be considered a type of bullying. I'd think a teen reading this article, which was already have issues with kids at school making comments, would feel even worse. Sounds like bullying to me. I believe that the Marie Claire mag was not the place for those comments somewhere like Howard Stern would be more appropriate.
Wendi,
Are you serious? That article was bullying? Really? If people are lazy and overweight then they need to either work towards fixing it or get some thicker skin. People need to know there are consequences to gorging yourself on a daily basis with no exercise to supplement it. We can't keep telling everyone they're a winner and that it is ok. They will grow up to be useless adults who were coddled as children. Life isn't easy and life isn't fair. That is a lesson everyone needs to learn! This country is full of spineless people and it's only getting worse. I mean, every kid in a youth soccer league gets a trophy now. The lesson being taught is that everyone is a winner and that there are no losers. That couldn't be further from the truth.
Very good point Wendi.
GLSEN did a survey on Bullying and found that more people were bullied for being overweight than were bullied for being gay or perceived to be gay.
And I can tell you from personal experience that anti-fat bullying has a devastating effect on a young person. I was so afraid of being bullied MORE that I didn't even come out as gay in High School. I had already been bullied and harassed so much for being fat that I literally couldn't take anymore.
I love how everyone on here wants to stereotype that every "fat" person just is lazy and sits around gorging all day long. Get a life and learn real facts before you open your mouths.
What's with this fat acceptance? How about encouraging them to be healthy before the fall over from a heart attack.
Oh Jesus.
Are you stupid enough not to know that skinny people get heart disease?
SKINNY DOES NOT EQUAL HEALTHY.
Beth – no one said all skinny ppl are healthy. However, skinnies CAN be healthy, obese ppl (not large-boned) are almost always unhealthy. See the point ? No ? Never mind. Go back to bashing skinnies.
What's with the acceptance of bad grammar and spelling? You're not perfect either, friend. Do you speed when you drive? Do you smoke? Do you consume alcohol or the ocassional recreational drug? Be very careful when you point fingers.
void
What a god awful lack of humanity there is these days. Overweight people are indeed at risk for health complications and it would serve anyone who is overweight to seek a lifestyle change that will bring their weight to a healthy level. But people like the majority of you who will sit behind a monitor and spout hatred isn't motivational, it's just hurtful. I've been a fitness instructor for close to 9 years, and I've rehabilitated countless overweight clients. Never have I resorted to the cowardly, spiteful and childish insults I've seen plastered all over this blog. A lack of maturity and intelligence is a more dangerous condition than being overweight, and the only ones deserving of ridicule are the adult-sized toddlers who were never taught how to empathize.
October 27, 2010 at 12:35 am | Report abuse |
I <3 you....Way to go. VERY well said.
Um, this isn't the first time a "fat" couple has been the lead in a sitcom... anyone ever heard of a little show called "Roseanne"? It's very disappointing that there are people in the world who view heavy set men / women / couples as something vile and disgusting. They're humans too! and in turn deserve to be treated with the same respect and dignity as others. And this is coming from an average weight / size female. Honestly I'd rather see a "normal" looking couple than a show or magazine filled with anorexic looking actors / actresses / models. Too thin is MUCH more of a reason to turn the channel than slightly overweight.
I believe in a healthy lifestyle. and if anyone read the statistics on overweight people and being healthy, I am sure many people will be surprised that the majority of verweight people are healthy. More so than 'skinny' people. Not everyone is born a size 6 or 8 or 10. I have never seen the show but I am glad its out there. Clearly some people need to be shown a different perspective. No one has a right to insult anyone and call them gross. They are just as bad as the bullies that drove those people to commit suicide.
It makes no difference WHY their fat, the fact is they are FAT. And the truth is they are not pleasant to look at, or in some cases even be around. Take away the looks factor and they have just the same personalities as the rest of us. However, there does seem to be a group of fat people, men and women, who act overly aggressive toward everyone. Could be learned behavior after the rejection. In the end, there's not a damned thing anyone can do about it – they are not going away.
with all the damage obesity does to our society, it's time to put the focus on obesity across the board as a national epidemic. how many kids each year are breaking the obesity bench mark? seems like more and more. Now is not the time to suddenly embrace obesity as some new accpetable fad. Time to tax the fast food eaters and soda drinkers the same way the rest of the "vices" are taxed: booze, cigarettes, etc. There is no positive side of obesity and tv shows that embrace it do a disservice to the rest of "healthy america". I may not like the aesthetics of "biggest loser" but at least those folks have owned up to their flaw and are making a (public!) effort at change. Much props to that! Unfortunately in America, shunning and embarassment seem to be the only thing that some folks understand. Peace
Some of the comments here disgust me. In my early 20s, I suddenly started gaining weight even though I was eating healthy foods (lean meats, fruits, whole grains, veggies, etc) and didn't drink alcohol or soda often. Every calorie needs estimator I looked at said I should be eating 2200 or so calories per day to maintain my weight at my current activity level. I couldn't understand why I gained 50 pounds over the course of 1 year and why I couldn't lose it even though I was only eating roughly 1800 calories per day and exercising an hour a day 5 days per week. Turns out that if I eat more than 1300 calories or so per day, I gain weight. It took me and my doctor a VERY long time to figure out the magic number of 1300 calories. Do you know how HARD it is to just eat only 1300 calories? And that's to MAINTAIN my weight. To lose weight, I have to go on a very low calorie diet while exercising an hour a day every day. I literally have to measure all of my food on a food scale to get an accurate calorie count. I eat pretty much the same foods each day so I'm not accidentally eating something that I don't know the nutritional content of. I can't participate in eating a bit of ice cream or cake at birthday parties. Holidays are a complete nightmare for me because friends and family get upset seeing me "eat so little." It sucks that I have to live this way, but it's what has to happen to avoid my gaining even more weight. I am NOT lazy. I do NOT eat crap food. I do NOT have an eating disorder that causes me to overeat or undereat. But this is what I have to deal with day in and day out. And for you people to sit there and assume that every overweight person out there is a lazy turd who stuffs their face full of junk is horribly ignorant and hurtful.
kudos to you on handling your daily struggle with such positive effort..............I know how terribly hard this can be........especially the holiday season rolling around...........Cheerz Baby 🙂
I sympathize – I just posted a similar story. I did the same thing, diet & exercise under supervised conditions, and still couldn't lose. And I am also sick of those who assume I'm a lazy pig just because I happen to be a size 18. But I console myself by thinking that many of them will eventually keel over from all the poison within themselves, while I will continue being happy with the fact that my husband thinks I'm gorgeous and young men half my age still tell me I'm hot!
I'm an 18 too at about 185 pounds. I've been losing weight really slowly, maybe 15 pounds during the past year and a half eating 1300 calories and exercising an hour a day every day. My hormone levels are normal, my thyroid is normal, I'm not on any weird meds. There's no explanation that we've found as to why my body is this odd, it just is what it is. So I deal with it. I have a hard enough time dealing with my diet... I don't need to deal with ignorant yahoos at the same time. I don't make snide comments about how people look or what they wear or what they pierce.... Why are people so MEAN to others? At least I have people who tell me I'm a beautiful person, inside and out. They give me hope that the world hasn't gone to complete crap yet. A lot of people don't have people to tell them they're beuatiful, and that's sad.
Food can be an addiction like anything else. I have no problem with the show, but I do with people having pride in their overweight status- most overweight people in the US do NOT have medical problem, they have diet and exercise problems. Look at other developed nations, do you really think all cases of obesity attributable to medical side effects reside in the US? You don't need to be a size 6 but you do need to be healthy- which is a standard to be set between you and your doctor.
Why should people should commend you for your lack of self discipline? And why do you think everyone who doesn't appreciate your body is a jerk anyway? Do YOU even appreciate you? If you did, you'd treat yourself better. For every 1 person who has a legitimate reason (hormonal imbalance, side effect from prescription medication, etc), there's 10 that don't. Those 10 could use a jog.
Stop enabling fat people!! Obesity is a crisis in this country! CNN recently had an article about research done that outlined that by 2050, 1 in every 3 Americans will have diabetes due to obesity or being fat. The last thing we need to do is teach our kids and society that being fat is acceptable or even tolerable. If anything we should be further shunning these people for their grotesque body form. Not that we should be supporting anorexic fashion-models either...
That is the most IDIODIC statement I've ever seen. I'm NOT condoning people being obese, but encouraging others to shun anyone from society is disgusting. Why not suggest something CONSTRUCTIVE?? Being cruel to people doesn't encourage a healthy lifestyle. Believe me, if there was a program out there that wasn't dangerous or extremely expensive, I'm sure most obese people would try it. It's easy to sit there on your high horse and preach about what's acceptable and what's not. That's the problem with people like you. Instead of helping, you just discriminate.
stop with the politically correct crap..................if you're fat.....you're FAT – you dont have curves (well I guess you do, one big round one), but I digress.......................I dont want to see a fashon mag with pics of chunky monkeys, it only serves as a reminder of how I would never want my body to appear!
Oh and the show is very well done. It's funny and people..it's a tv show! I'd rather watch this anyday than stupid reality tv.
Non of this bashing of fatties surprises me. It's an everyday occurence for me to be pointed at, laughed at and called names in public. I do not waste my money on magazines like Marie Claire because that rag isn't real. As for the tv show Mike and Molly, just another way to publically critize and make fun of fat people. It's societies way of saying "it's okay and entertaining to make fun of fat people, come on and join us". God help the morons.
First off, yes I am overweight. BUT before all of y'all start bashing every single "fat" person...know this....me and several friends are constantly fighting the battle of the buldge. So DO NOT assume everyone sits on the couch all day and just eats donuts and bon bons. I workout every single day at least 30 mins –that's 7 days a week, not 3 or 4! I am doing weight watchers and losing a little bit at a time. But I will say when I have a bad day (someone says a offcolor remark), the first thing I want to do is reach for something sweet (but I don't)...but by making fun of bigger people you're just sending them backwards into a neverending spiral of depression and eating. I'm not going to ever be super skinny, and I hardly ever travel because I don't want to walk onto a plane and see the looks of "oh please don't let her sit by me"...but I'm happy. I have good friends, a great dating life, and a supportive family..so screw all of you who feel that if you put someone else down your day is better because you think you've helped, when all you've done is cause more damage. Just let everyone be..if you don't like us, don't look. Get over it. I just hate that people assume all bigger people do is eat..that's incorrect!!! AND on the insurance issue–I'm never sick and can't remember the last time I've gone to the doctor (aside from annual checkups) and everything as far as bloodwork is perfect....but it would be helpful if a bigger person could go see a nutritionist and learn how to eat corrrectly, but insurance plans do not cover that unless you're diabetic. So in order to get nutritional help, you have to already be very sick to get help. A nutritionist would cost a lot less than diabetic medicine and tests...just sayin.
How do they connect to each other?
I don't get how some people are so ignorant! People are who they are...does it matter if you are fat or skinny? Why are people so quick to judge others? I really wish people would focus more on family life and taking care of their children and making this world a better place to live in before all of our rights are gone instead of worrying about how fat a person is. Come on people, show a bit of understanding for others and move on! Just because you are skinny does not mean you do not have issues.....people who are heavy may just be showing their issues on the outside! Take a long look at yourself before you go throwing stones at others!
All the whining about 'too skinny' models and actresses by gluttons is really funny to watch. Then the people who can't control themselves at the dinner table get all huffy when called on what they do.
Fat is a lifestyle choice.
Shows like “Mike & Molly” only enable an already FAT nation to eat itself to death. Such programs advertise overtly and covertly that's its okay to eat like a slob and not exercise. Look at the most common health-related issues our country faces: diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Shame on shows like “Mike & Molly” for pushing their artery-clogged agenda over the air. We are already a nation of pigs and waste. Ban “Mike & Molly”, television's biggest chunks of dung.
I don't agree with your statement regarding Mike & Molly. I like the show.
If you think about the topic and not the fact that they are overweight. It is about relationships and how ard they can be to fiind the right person. Yes its true that they happen to have met at an OA meeting. Have you not gone to a bar, on a blind date, or anywhere to find that special someone. Why is it a big deal about them being overweight?!?
Like I said I like the show and I don't agree that it should be dropped like a big piece of "dung' as you so nicely put it.
Stop thinking about yourself and think of others. Judge others how you would like to be judged and don't make rude assumptions.
Yes, I am an overweight 38 year-old but my status for cholestorol, blood pressure, and non-diabetes, are fine. I have tried all the diets and 'life-style" changes it has to do with portion control and exercise. I have other issues that makes exercising daily [besides walking]. If I could afford to got the GYM – I would. My spouse was out of work for 20 months. He finally got a job recently and now we are getting things back on track. A Gym membership fee would not be a good reason why I couldnt pay my mortgate. 8-(
Consider the impact of the media on American culture over the past few decades and it's hardly surprising. It's virtually impossible to watch a movie, read a magazine, view television or see a billboard with average-size people. Instead, we are bombarded from birth with an unhealthy, unrealistic, unattainable and ultimately damaging ideal: Size 0.
Frankly, I think most of Hollywood looks as abnormal as grossly obese people. When we – all of us – start seeing Size 0 as being as unhealthy and unattractive as Size 32? THEN we will make progress. The Size 32s gave up long ago trying to compete with unrealistic beauty standards. It's time we start protesting and realize that the Size 0s are contributing to the problem. Get REAL! Hollywood (and you, too, CNN) need to quit imposing starvation as a requirement for screen time. You are damaging our daughters.
The survival of the human species once depended upon strength and leanness. We farmed and performed manual labor from dawn to dusk. With the advent of technology and urbanization, humans no longer need to be a fit as we once did. Do we need to be healthy? Of course. Do we need to maintain a lean physique able to withstand long hours of manual labor and prolonged periods of food scarcity? No.
Me? I'm a middle-aged woman, size 8.
I guess I don't understand why it is ok for people to make fun of and talk about overweight people the way they do, but it is not ok to talk about other races or religions without it being a big debate. I am not racist and do not think it is ok to discriminate because of these reasons, but people think it is ok to discriminate if someone doesn't fit the mold society has made.
People who think that a size 15 can't be healthy are ignorant. There are people of various sizes (some surprisingly large) who are extremely healthy. I really wish there could be a show where everyone looked more like the average sized person (sizes 12-18). When I was at my healthiest weight I was still a size 12, any skinnier and I would have looked like a skeleton. Everyone needs to look beyond the outter shell and see the person for who they are. It's disgusting to see people so judgemental when they don't even know the person. No wonder I'm terrified of joining a gym and do my best to work out at home when no one is looking.
Great look at all the comments non acceptance.
Nice message you are sending to the younger generation. No wonder there is such high teen suicides in this country. We teaching them they are not acceptable. Love has no size.
Shame on you!
The show is supposed to be about overweight people who should be proud about themselves, but after watching a few episodes, i found out that the characters on the show do not like being fat, and they feel unconfortable being naked in front of each other. they also attend a over eating support group to show them how to loose weight. my point is that they contradict themselves by saying it is okay to be fat, but it is not okay because they dont like being fat either.
I'm 32 lbs overweight. My blood pressure is 98/68. My cholestral is 127. All of my stats are better than my co-worker. He's at a "perfect" weight and is an exercise fanatic who bikes 10 to 15 miles a day. He's on high blood pressure medicine and Lipitor for his cholestral. If your going to comment about the health of fat people versus skinny people on TV, know your facts. Not all fat people are unhealthy qnd not all skinny people are.
WOW a size 2...I'd have to be Anorexic & Bulimic to be a size 2...
I do agree that obesity is an epidemic and I have found all the campaigns to "accept and love" your body no matter the size to be a little hard to swallow. I also think concepts like large seats on airlines to accomodate obease people is only enabling our society to stay at an unhealthy weight. That being said, I also don't feel grossed out or cold towards people that are overweight and don't think having a show that features overweight people on TV to be an issue. I do think it's extrememly difficult emotionally to be an obease person in today's world, especially when there are people talking about how "disgusting" the obease are. That line of thinking is shallow and inconsiderate of the person underneath outside appearences. Just b/c a person is overweight doesn't mean they're not worthy of love or compassion. I think having a show that demonstrates a plus size couple to be a kind of support system for people that may be feeling dejected about their appearence. It's important to love you for you, and I think that show promotes empowerment. I just don't ever want to see someone allow empowerment to enable them to remain at an unhealthy weight.
I was actually glad to see that the humans from the movie Wall-E finally got their own show.
I am a size 18. Am I happy with that size? No, I'm not. Which would explain my gym membership and the yogurt and egg whites I had for breakfast. For me weight loss is a struggle – a very real, difficult, daily struggle made harder by the fact that I have PCOS. It's not *the* reason I'm overweight, but it's a contributing factor. That being said, my cholesterol is perfect. So is my blood pressure and my heart rate. I don't have diabetes or circulation issues or any other alarming health issues people automatically fling onto the plus sized. In fact, I have a friend who is a size 8, which is normal for her height, and she has Type 2 Diabetes. Go figure. The point is you never know what someone is struggling with, and we're all struggling with something. You included. Think about that before you rush to judge others. A little compassion goes a long way. And compassion ≠ condoning destructive behavior. It's simply a sign that you're a decent human being.
Like the comment about compassion not being equal to condoning destructive behavior. Well said.
Thanks for bringing up PCOS. It is more common than most people know, and it makes it VERY difficult to lose weight or maintain weight loss. I'm a size 12-14, I love to cook and am a very healthy cook. We eat fast food maybe 5 times a year and only if we're on a road trip and nothing else is available. Granted, working full-time and with a house to clean, child to raise, etc... I don't get to the gym as often as I would like, but I do exercise and have no other weight-related issues (like you, great choleterol levels, blood sugar and blood pressure, etc...). I know what it takes for me to lose weight: no more than 1200 calories a day and one and a half of combination cardio and and weight training 5 days a week. That is VERY difficult to maintain for more than 6 weeks when you have a life. Thanks for your great post!
I just wonder when they will put out more shows that actually have women that are "average" size, i.e. That are size 8-14. It seems the media always gears towards the extreme. But I guess most of the actors that were in that size range find themselves working out in the extreme to get to be size 0-4 or putting on some weight for the plus-size roles. There's no inbetween to portray us "average" people. Hm.
I am a "fatty" and decided to turn over a new leaf. I started walking a mile during my lunch hour. I had done this for about three weeks and I was happy with it. I would get out of the office and in the fresh air. One day, two girls veered their car toward me to make it look like they would hit me and yelled from the window "All fat people should die". So according to these girls I am not worth anything and should just be dead. Never mind the fact that I am a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, etc... My life has no meaning at all because I am fat??? Really? Why would any fatty want to go out thier door when they have that to greet them.
I am SO glad she wrote the article. Fat people are abusing their bodies in the same way as an addict. I'm not talking about someone with an extra 10 – 25 lbs. If you are 30+ lbs overweight, YOU ARE FAT. You don't LOOK as good. You don't FEEL as good. You can't DO the things you Should be able to do. And don't LIE to yourself about "Accepting" who you are. You eat too much. You are fat. You struggle with poor self image. AND YOU SHOULD. Why? Because YOU KNOW it is up to YOU and only YOU to make a change. So YOU are responsible. Just stop eating so many calories. Stop being so lazy and cook a proper, healthy meal. It IS that simple. "Plus Sized"? What a lie. YOU ARE OBESE. Loose the weight or accept that looking at you is NO DIFFERENT then looking at a addict stumble down the street.
Chris, you are ignorant and misinformed. Where did you get your medical degree? You must have one in order to so positively tell someone that has 30 or more pounds to lose that they're lazy and eating too many calories. If losing weight was as simple for everyone as eating better and exercising more, there would be far fewer overweight people. There are medical issues and mental issues – eating disorders aren't limited to anorexia and bulimia. But I'm sure you learned that in medical school. People who are struggling need compassion, not condemnation. Don't be an ass. Not everyone has it as easy in life as you.
Sarah – It really IS that simple for 95% of the people. What it's not, is easy. And that is exactly the reason why more people aren't fit, because it takes a lot of will and effort to pick my a$$ up and go for a run, and resist that second slice of cheesecake. Don't you be condescending. You don't make that effort. The task in itself is pretty straight-forward.
You know, two years ago I weighed 265 lbs...I was seriously overweight at 5ft 3......but you know what. I was still a person with the same feelings, desires, cares and ambitions as my smaller counterparts. Comments like she made are hurtful and harmful. You would never say something so cruel to anyone else. Even + 100 lbs lighter now and running 5 miles a day I still get flack from my overweight days. I get comments like "oh you look so good, but you know I had a friend who gained all her weight back" all the time. Like it is OK to tell someone "you did great, but you probably will fail”. For whatever reason, being associated with being overweight seems to give others the ingrained right (and need) to down you or to try and stomp on you. Many times overweight individuals suffer from such low self esteem they are truly afraid to try to loose weight because they might fail. Maybe if we encourage more than discourage we can truly start making positive changes in people’s lives instead of negative. Obesity is at epidemic rates right now, we need to start trying to find a way to help people, not attack them.
I'm average height 5'8 , athletic build, decent looking guy and personally I've always kinda digged girls who were a bit on the rubenesque side, not obese to the point where it's a health issue but I don't mind a girl who is 150lb. plus as long as they've got everything proportioned nicely it's all good. Bigger girls are often a lot funnier, a lot more fun to be with and not delicate little flowers.
This show is funny because of the actors not because they are overweight. But it is wonderful that they are people that are not size zero. Amazing how much bullying there is of people who are overweight and how accepted it is everywhere. Time to accept all people.
Anyone remember Roseanne? Roseanne and Dan Connor were bigger people, and that show was loved for years!
I loved Roseanne!!!
good article till the end – why would you write "like a fat kid likes cake" – grow up.
People come in all shapes and sizes, all colors, different beliefs, different tastes, the list goes on. What seems to be the problem. Move on people.
Why does everything have to be such a big deal? Skinny.....fat....black.....white... Who cares if the show is about an overweight couple. It is funny.....and that is why I will watch it. TV/movies should be an escape from the everyday life and hopefully not a mirror image. There is not a show on TV that I would wish my own life to reflect. Get a grip America.
Some people are disgusting. But you can be overweight and not be disgusting, and disgusting but not overweight. Being disgusting has more to do with not taking care of yourself and behaving in an obnoxious manner (see your average guest on the Jerry Springer show).
Each person is free to do what they want and live how they want. I won't say anything to anyone, thats their business. However, having said that, I will not accept the push to socially accept obese as the "new normal".
Here's an idea: All you people who are so deeply offended by watching fat people on TV, why don't you make a list of all the things that are wrong with you, starting with Vanity, and an undeserved sense of Superiority. Then maybe you can discuss your ego with a professional, and determine why it is so important for you to feel better than someone else becuase you may or may not have the weight problem they have. George W. Bush is not overweight, but I'd much rather be me than him. You people are idiots.
Even if normal-sized women are on TV, like, say, a size-12 or size-14 woman (size 14, BTW, is the size of the average American woman), they would be considered too fat. If fat women are considered abnormal and disgusting by many, let me put my two cents in about the kind of scrawny women seen all over TV and print ads. That's what causes so many eating disorders among young women - they think all women are supposed to look like that. I thought that Dove ad campaign with women of all sizes had some of the best and most real and natural photos I've seen in a long time.
When did we as a human race become so intolerant of others?
I don't know. They make fun of others to feel better about themselves. They really need to work on self worth.
I don't think obesity should be looked at favorably. Many obese people are just lovely, but its a health problem that needs to be dealt with. Being a size 22 is just as bad as barely fitting into a size 000. If you eat healthy and exercise regularly, then fine. But both overeating and anorexia are horrible things that should not be accepted
I just don't get why people are being so mean and hateful. I also truly believe that these hateful comments are coming from people that are either struggling with their weight or are obssesed with their weight. Who gives you the right to judge people? You don't know every obese person or why they are obese. You don't even know if they are actually eating properly or excercising. You are assuming if a person is big it's because they are lazy but that's not the case.
I guess with me I'm actually on the other side because I am a naturally thin person. A size 2 and I'm 30 years old. I've always been thin and never had to workout or eat properly. I was constantly given food so I could gain weight and all that did was make me extremely lazy. I ate 5 big meals a day, never worked out and went to sleep after lunch every day. If a person saw me they would think "wow she's in shape" but hello I wasn't and I had high cholesterol at 15. 15, me the skinny girl who was no more than 90 pounds had high cholesterol but I was thin. Now I work out and I was able to put on weight. Thankfully. I guess because I am naturally thin I've never had an obssesion with weight and let people be them. I don't expect everybody to be a size 2 like me.
This is the point. Just because a person is thin doesn't mean they are healthy. And until you know every person's story don't judge them. If you hate your body, that's no reason to lash out at other people. Start working on yourself before you start trying to fix others.
Hello...this is nothing new...Dan and Roseann were the first overwieght TV couple.
Obese peple are disgusting! They are lazy, unhealthy, and unproductive. They are always very hungry, breathing heavy, and making comments like " I dont know why my feet always hurt". A real eyesore on the human race.
While being fat isn't something that should be made ideal, it is wrong to berate someone for that fact. That doesn't help that person at all. In fact it is that same crap that happens to kids in school that makes them even bigger than they were then. Hatred doesn't motivate people to lose weight and it is stuff like the Marie Claire article and the comments to the previous article that leads people to eating disorders. You know just because black people were (and still are) hated by some other races doesn't mean we can change it. And for those who don't want to watch a show with fat people, what about Roseanne. I'm not saying Roseanne was big, but John Goodman definitely was. They had so much romance, I bet you people would just get sick. Yet Roseanne was an award winning show that at one point was the number one show in America and stayed in the Top 10 for its first 7 seasons. So where is the difference from then and now. Someones weight should have no bearing on what you think of them because you don't know them.
To all the posters excusing being overweight with statements to the effect of "People come in all shapes and sizes"....
This view should ideally refer to the naturally-occurring variation among people – for example, a tall slim Eastern European girl compared to a short, squat, powerhouse Mexican girl. Or a person with a huge frame compared to a diminutive person with narrow shoulders.... for example.
It, in no way, should ever be a rationale for the insane widening of that natural variation that is currently occurring at the hands of fat, overeating, under-exercised people OR the other side which consists of folks with eating disorders.
Lisa France, you are plus-sized in girth and ego. No one read your piece before MC, so stop trying to take credit for it. Even if a fat tree falls in the forest, if no one is there to hear it, it doesn't make a sound.
I think there should be awareness when it comes to health and body.
It is not ok to be fat, not because it is aesthetically but because it is very unhealthy and dangerous for a person's physical, emotional and mental state.
So no, it is NOT ok to be obese or fat. And the media should not promote being unhealthy as a natural state.
Having said that, losing weight is hard and it's harsh. It's a struggle that begins first and foremost in one's mind.
But it is possible and people should and must make the effort! Not because of anyone's judgement. Who cares?!
But for their own self, for their own improvement. To change their life and their beloved one's life to the better!!
Have you seen obese babies and children?!!! come on!! NOT OK!
I agree with a person who said that a sitcom should not revole around FAT or SKINNY people. Just people, human beings, personalities, real life.
I love "the biggest loser" . It shows that with will, with perseverence. You CAN change. And people at the end are so so happy. wonderful show really.
Sport, proper diet, awareness is a MUST!!!
No to Anorexia, ugly skinny models. Obese people who are "ok" with it, Junk Food, Poisonous foods, Bulimia, Obsessions, BBD.
It's enough. Really. It's enough.
@SR Totally agree with you. I hope they don't pull your remark because I accidentally hit "Report Abuse" instead of "Reply." It truly was an accident and I really did like your comments.
The underlying issue through all of the mudslinging and name-calling these articles have spurred, is that obesity in America is a growing trend and shows absolutely no signs of stopping. To me, that's a scary thought. Whether people want to believe it or not, these "plus-size" actors and actresses are above all other things, unhealthy. I won't bore you with a list of diseases they are more prone to get, we've all heard it before, but I will tell you is this: the fact that American movies, television, books and pop culture are becoming more accepting of the morbidly obese (accepting enough to coin a 'politically correct' term like plus-size) is not a step in the right direction. Take for instance the other end of the spectrum. A short time back, models were considered fat if they were anything more than a size two. This translated into everyday America and we have seen an increase in eating disorders across the country. That, without a doubt, is absolutely horrible AND unhealthy. So to counteract this, across the nation there has been a slow movement of change. The message is clear: Just be healthy. Love your body. But we have now taken it too far. We have taken it to the point where we are letting ourselves become increasingly overweight and, yet again, unhealthy. We hide behind statements like, “I don’t need to be a size four to be beautiful.” That is absolutely, without a doubt true. You don’t have to be a stick to be beautiful. But what most people fail to realize is this: If we continue the trend of acceptance towards morbid obesity within pop culture, we are doing no better than what was done years ago when a size two wasn’t considered good enough. We are, again, harming ourselves and perpetuating the idea that an unhealthy lifestyle is, by all accounts, acceptable.
I find this story truly interesting, especially when one of the most popular shows ever, "Roseanne", had two heavy actors as the stars and thinner actors as well. That show was wildly popular. People need to get past the weight issue. If someone has a few more pounds that is their business, we are all individuals. Someone can be slim but have a big nose. Someone can be pretty but extremely short. Who cares??? Just love yourself, take care of your health, and enjoy your life!
Last time I checked, having a big nose or being short does not shorten your lifespan. "If someone has a few more pounds that is their business" and "take care of your health" are utterly contradictory statements. If you want to be "thik", that is indeed your own choice. Just don't expect to enjoy a long and healthy life.
The joke in all of this is, there really IS recovery at Overeaters Anonymous, the group they refer to but whose principles they do not talk about at all. I know. I have one of those "medical conditions"; I weighed 208 at my top weight. Today I weigh 138 lbs, and have maintained 60-70 lb weight loss for fourteen years.
Doable? Yes. Easy? No. Did OA give me the support I needed to help me? Absolutely. Do I pass this gift onto others? You bet. Would I go back "there"? God willing, not if I have any say about it.
OA is not about pickups and dating. It is not about "compare and despair". Losing weight is not the end of the process: It is the beginning, of healing physically, emotionally and spiritually. One day at a time. Did I mention that OA has no dues or fees? Welcome home!
It is resentful as well as hurtful to anyone who is not "perfect" sized to be accused of running for cakes, donuts or twinkies. That is a narrow minded assessment. It is well and proper to promote healthy lifestyles, but accept the fact that people will come in all sizes, diet not withstanding. Pre-Roseanne there was a delightful show on network tv called "The Dumplings" starring the fabulous actor James Coco, and I do not recall any running diatribe in the rag sheets of the day about the actor's size, it was simply an entertaining show. Leave Mike and Molly to that, enjoy it or tune away.
It's as if America has no middle ground on perceptions of obesity. One size 2 woman might cry about gaining 3 pounds, while at the same time another obese person blissfully feeds their expanding waistline with another super-size McD diabetes special.
It's no secret that America is getting collectively fatter, and this is gradually changing what is perceived as "normal". But changing perceptions do not change the health consequences of obesity. Yes, there are real medical reasons for *some* instances of obesity, but an alarming (and delusional) percentage of obese Americans cite "medical reasons" as a bogus crutch for their lazy and unhealthy lifestyles. "It's genetic!". No, more often than not they're just fat, lazy, and make consistently wretched dietary choices. I have to wonder whether a good dose of shame and derision might actually save someones life, as opposed to telling them that it is OK to be obese.
If there is an upside to the obesity epidemic in America it is this: it provides a counter-balance to medical advances that are extending lifespans of healthy Americans. Because there is slim chance that many of these lazy "I'm OK, You're OK" fatties will see the other side of 65.
"slim chance". HA.. I kill me...
America – the land of the obese, In Sloth We Trust
So this marie writer can't say what she believes? When did this become so unpopular in this country? Oh no you can't say that! You might offend the muslim or the overweight person! Since when is it a crime to be honest?
Thats the problem with our society, "mind my own business" is what we say. Its all of our business and responsible to make life better for not just ourselves, but others also. Took ignore problems solves nothing. To ignore obesity, the economy, energy, etc is not the right thing to do. We all have to pay for others decisions. So no, I will not mind my own business.
isn't this kind of the same reason juan williams got fired from npr? He basically said that muslims make him uncomfortable. At the time, I thought npr had overreacted, but when I see the marie clare quotes–i believe that writer should be fired. Her comments demonstrate a profound disconnect with the reality if her readers' lives, and a deplorable contempt for their feelings. It strikes me now that muslim viewers must have felt very similarly when they heard williams air his personal feelings using such dismissive language–as though there were no muslim viewers, or as though their feelings and their right to be treated respectfully by nationally-reknowned news analysts doesn't exist.
I have always said you can see a 'beautiful' person and just be stunned by their beauty...but once you add their personality they may become the ugliest person you have ever seen! Its what's on the inside that counts!
Btw I'm a size 6
Overweight, obese people who don't care about themselves enough to control their eating and who don't exercise will be a major cause in bankrupting our country in the future. Their fatness is the core of so many diseases and conditions which will lead to increased medical care for our entire society. The cost of their fatness will be socialized and everyone will have to pay it. When I see obese people, I can feel my wallet getting lighter
When you talk, I feel myself getting dumber. I think my door knob has a higher IQ. Do us all a favor, invest whats in your wallet, into more schooling.
When a man and a woman of the right size huddle and kiss, or a right-sized gay couple kiss on-screen I just watch and I would be thinking "OK, be quick already, let's get on with the story."
When two heavy weights of whatever orientation huddle and kiss, or when a very young man/woman huddles and kisses with a 90 year old, I must admit a'la Juan Williams, it makes me cringe. It's like "hmmm ... that violates the law of nature, please don't show that again." Sorry, it's a reaction a'la Juan Williams'. It's like my schizophonically hearing lawn-mowers at midnite during summer because of all the lawnmowers operating during the day, it's a florescent imagery that disturbs me and I try hard to rid that just won't go away. Sorry.
Shallow, mean, greedy and hate-mongering. Welcome to America.
Exactly.
People get grossed out watching obese people be intimate because it just isn't natural to be that huge. Obesity is an overdose of food and is just as serious of an addiction as alcohol or drugs. Of course not everyone can be a size 6, but we also live in a country where 2/3rds of the population is overweight and we have sky rocketing healthcare costs. Wake up, we shouldn't be glamorizing this sickness as being okay!
Do you get 'turned on' by watching big name studio p0rn where the actors are more plastic than flesh? Do you get 'turned on' by a large number of people in the entertainment industry? If so, you are enjoying the promotion of a standard that is unrealistic and dangerous.
I'm so glad that we have people like this ^ who have no clue to why our deficit is what it is, to speak for America. Do us all a favor and keep your mouth closed until you do some research.
^ Amen Frank.
Shows that portray obesity as being alright and asserting that fat people should accept themselves as they are, are disgusting. That's like saying that junkies should accept themselves as they are.
I must add that it's sickening to see others and especially the media devalue the lives of plus size people as if they're simply worthless and not human. Meanwhile the media pushes an inhuman unrealistic and unreachable standard of 'beauty' on us to make us into drones and to get us to fork over our cash. What you see in the media is fake, anyway. Photoshopped and airbrushed out of the realm of reality. You might as well be looking at animation.
This show is not groundbreaking. What about Roseanne?
AAAAAAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh! Get out of the way of the obese stampede. AAAAAAAAaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!! They are all headin' for donuts.
Does the show "Roseanne" ring any bells for anybody? It is one of the most successful sitcoms in history, partly because it did its best to portray real life. That was 20 years ago. I can't believe our society has made no progress in 2 decades.
@Carol Ann,
I'm pretty sure you have no idea what you're talking about. To be quite honest, I think there is no possible way you have any right to talk down to anyone regardless of their size. I hope to God that you are fat as h e l l sitting there at your computer. But hey we will all be judged someday, and you will be judged just as harsh as you judge others. Leave people alone and let them do them, and you do you. And when you say "Boo hoo, its not your fault," let me ask you this, who got you to be so "healthy and thin"? Was it your parents? Because I'm pretty darn sure that when you were a child and presented with two choices: junk food, or broccoli, you'd pick the junk food. Don't even try to act like you wouldn't. I'm saying that people have more than one underlying cause that correlates to whether they are healthy/unhealthy/fat/skinny. Parenting styles included. So, kudos to your parents for having sense enough to shove good food down your throat. For the rest of us who started the real part of our lives with food related consciousness as overweight or obese, we're going to have to erase everything we knew and have been taught for the last (*Enter age here*) years of our lives? SO F*U*C*K* all of you that think you're superior.
You're not.
I swear this whole world has totally lost site of the whole big picture. Diversity people! How boring it would be if we were all size 6. Then what would we whine about? Those abnormal redheads, the freaky under 5 footers, the grotesque over size 7 shoe wearers. You're all so hung up on perfection you can't see the the world as it should be seen. Guess what, you can be over size 6 and be healthy. You can live a decent healthy life. Young so called healthy folks die all the time or don't you read the news. Look what this whole body image thing has done for the poor sad folks with eating disorders like...hello...anorexia. There are so called normal people with arthritis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, liver disease, and vericose veins just to name a few. So open your eyes and maybe your minds and hearts a bit more and see the world and it's people for what it is.......a beautiful ever changing planet full of diffences that make us all the same.....human.
Beautifully said. =) If we were all meant to be the same... we'd all be the same color... same size... we'd all look like a colony of ants.
For those of you who do not think there are medical reasons for being overweight or obese, you are ignorant and uneducated. The diseases that can cause obesity are rare but exist none the less and are NOT caused by drugs.
As for being overweight, the media and society has duped the public into thinking that being overweight (BMI 25-29.9) is bad and deadly. Not true according to the CDC. Actually, being overweight was better or the same as being bormal weight (BMI 19-24.9). Being obese does raise the RISK of disease but does not mean that ALL obese people will have problems. Just like all normal weight people are healthy is not true.
Weight is not the end all be all in health. It may be for those so shallow to think that outward appeatance is everything. Stop believing hype and the social media as they rarely portray the true science and facts because it does not serve them well.
Fat kids shouldn't be allowed to have cake and it is the lazy often fat themselves parents that are at fault. Stop reading Marie Claire and taking the time to be outraged and instead take you and your chubby kid out for a walk.
What is the matter with people today? We should all know by now that people come in all shapes and sizes. How can you say a person that is bigger is unhealthy? What if that person works out and eat properly? Some people might just be big boned. I feel that the people that are making such a fuss are the people who are so concerned with their own weight they are lashing out on every else. It's actually pathetic. This is the problem with this country. People are too concerned with what others do. Mind your own business, get a life, and don't watch the TV show. But don't go putting others down because you have self esteem issues. Let people be themselves. Not everybody wants to be obsessing over their weight.
Oh and by the way i'm actually a size 2 but i'm one of those hated people that can eat whatever they want and don't gain weight. But I do have heavier friends and these comments are just rude. A TV is not effecting you, how a person looks is not effecting you so lets get lives people.
Yes, there IS something wrong with a size 32!!!!! I agree with the article writer, its as disturbing as watching a drunk or a heroine addict. And of course the fatso's don't get it, based on the "size 6" comment. Come on, size 32 is a LOT different than size 6, thats just being moronic. You don't have to be size 6 to be attractive, you know, size 12 or 14 or even 18 is OK, but size 32 is DISGUSTING!!
The reality is being too fat or too thin, or the right size but failing to eat properly or exercise, is all bad! In addition, anyone who obsesses over food (too much, too little) obviously has other issues that need to be coped with. It is impossible to say a size 12 is healthy or unhealthy, because there are just too many factors. Yes, we are an obese nation, and yes we need to work on that to be healthy. Instead of focusing on what we can do to change the eating habits of children, we instead instill in them a sense that they are worthless if they do not look like a cover model. If the world spent less time trying to make people conform to some unrealistic ideal, and more time on eliminating processed foods, overeating, etc... we could raise children that stay within a healthy weight range and maintain good eating habits throughout life, rather than children who suffer from depression and other issues associated with being outside this new "norm" society has created for itself.
Does anyone remember 'Roseanne'? It was a big hit and those two sure weren't skinny. It was popular because it was about life, not about weight.
Oh the adventures of being a plus size girl ... love those BBW's 😉 haha. The psychology of it all is amazing.
Being overweight is a lifestyle choice, some are okay with the choice and try to change those lifestyles. I think this is very comparable to smoking, which is a lifestyle choice, and is unhealthy and addictive.
Should smokers get a room.
Although, I haven't seen "Mike and Molly" yet if the show is any reflection of what I've heard then maybe it will help those individuals who are repulsed by overweight people realize that they are "real" people, and that maybe it will shed some light onto the "Don't judge a book by it cover" aspect.
I read a comment about someone being disgusted when coming across the biggest loser, and I just would like to express my greatest appreciation for that show because it has really inspired people in my family that struggle with weight to get healthy.
I'd be more comfortable with the show if it was about 2 fat people trying to get in shape. But 2 fat people who don't care that they're fat? That's not something we should promote or subscribe to in any way. Fat isn't just gross. It's an outward display of character flaws and emotional problems. It shows that you're too lazy to sweat that off, too irresponsible to eat healthy, and so emotionally insecure that you want to delude yourself into thinking it's OK. Thyroid? Please. There is medication for that.
An outward expression of character flaws? Choosing to live in ignorance is also a character flaw.
They are trying to get help.. they're in Overeaters Anonymous (where they met)
@adr – CLEARLY you have never had a thyroid condition. Honestly, you make me laugh. I had my thyroid removed five years ago and ONLY RECENTLY have found the correct dosage/lifestyle/ect to help me maintain a healthy weight. at ANY point my body can go through changes that make a medication dosage change necessary. ITS NOT BLACK AND WHITE.
I'm also lucky enough to have a doctor that works with me on it regularly. There are many MANY people that do not have doctors well versed in thyroid and endocrine disorders and spend years on incorrect meds, dosages, ect and go for years struggling with weight.
Shame on you. Do some research before you spout off about thyroid problems you jerk.
i love the term 'morbidly obese'.. how bad is it when the word 'obese' doesn't quite capture what you are..
Last fall I was ill for several weeks and was unable to move a great deal, let alone exiercise. I was on steroids for weeks. Now I am a size 8/10 pant and 12 blouse/jacket. This illness taught me a lot about myself. I was raised in a family that believed ANY woman who weighed more than 112 lbs was fat and unlovelabe. I've spent my whole life, even when I weighted 96 lbs (I'm 5'6"), thinking I was fat and hideous. I gained 11 pounds when I was pregnant and thought I was fat. My chronic health condition is neurologica and is not caused by me being "fat." I am 49, and for the first time in my life I feel beautiful.
At first i would make litte "jokes" about being fat and was surprised when people told me I had a figure to die for. If anyone talked about "fat" people I thought they were including me in their assessments only to find that they were talking to me as if I were an "insider" who felt the same way about obese people. It has been an eye opener and it has freed me to live a fuller life. For the first time in my life people are calling me beautiful and I can say "thank you!"
We need to just stop negatively judging people for their size, or for any reason for that matter based upon appearance. The two characters on the mentioned show are funny and kind people. Molly is a beautiful woman and if you can't see this then the problem lies within you, not with her weight. In fact, based upon my expeience, if you find obese people to be disgusting just because they are disgusting then I would guess that you are filled with a great deal of self hatred. I hope something comes along in your life that will open your eyes to this and release you. It's so wonderful to eat ice cream ever once in awhile without having to punish myself afterwards for "not being good."
Freudian slip in last paragraph I guess!. "disgusting just because they are fat." Guess I'm still working on that self-image and esteem. Might be working on it the rest of my life. Still life is so much more enjoyable.
"To be brutally honest, even in real life, I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room — just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroine addict slumping in a chair.”
Ok, Ms. Kelly. I'm a huge heroine addict. I love Wonder Woman, Storm, Jean Grey. . . and I slump in chairs all the time. Before you slam people, at least learn how to spell your insults correctly.
Lisa, nobody's being too hard on the Marie Claire writer. She's simply getting a rebuttal. Now you, Missy, go shake what your momma gave ya, and love every curvy moment of it!
Maybe we should start banning shows that feature anorexic and bulemic actresses/actors. If unhealthy people should not be featured, let's get both ends of the spectrum!
If you have some proven medical disorder that makes you overweight, I'm sorry to hear that and it's a shame. Good luck.
As for the rest of you OVERWEIGHT folks (no, I don't mean big-boned people or even the very small percentage of athletes who remain big/husky despite tons of exercise): it sucks for you to hear it and it sounds hateful, insensitive, and I'm sure it's not good for your self-esteem in the short-term, but...... go lose some weight. It's a shameful, embarrassing symbol of first-world convenience to see so many unhealthy people walking around – correction, driving around.
I'm sure 100% of people commenting can agree that putting heroin or meth into your body is disgusting and self-destructive. Why can't you adopt a similar perspective with processed food, refined sugar, fast food, stupid snacks, and the overeating of all of this stuff?
There are few excuses for being overweight. Good for you if you feel comfortable with your large size, but it's unhealthy and any doctor can tell you that. Go for a walk, eat some raw vegetables, stop watching TV, get off the computer (cue ironic replies), ride a bike, play with your kid or dog or something. Stop stuffing your face with so much unhealthy crap peddled to you by corporations who only care if you're alive to buy their products. America is a physical embarrassment. There is NO glory in being fat. It's a health problem caused by bad habits just like drug abuse, or alcohol abuse, or emotional abuse, and should be approached as such. Better yet, the solution for this one is not complex at all: eat lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and if possible not a whole lot of meat (beans, nuts can help you there), stay away from the food with a gazillion ingredients and refined sugars, stop buying basically 95% of all available sweet drinks, and go exercise!
Assuming that someone is healthy or unhealthy based purely on their stature and weight is absurd. True, the overweight are more at risk of suffering from Type II Diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Because of genetics, they may even be predisposed to such illnesses (even if not overweight). Making this assumption is like claiming that all thin, or proportionally correct, individuals are healthy.
Take me for instance. I'm a 44 year-old male weighing 110 lbs at 5' 4". Yes, I am a little thin (within medical tolerance for my height, but on the extreme low end of the scale). I have never done illicit drugs or abused alcohol or tobacco. I have always been active and for the most part have always consumed a balanced diet. Based on what many of you are saying, I should be healthy. Right?
NOT EVEN CLOSE!!!!! I had a heart transplant at age 35, a kidney transplant at age 39, suffer from Type II Diabetes (according to some of the posts aren't only overweight people supposed to have this condition?), have organic mental conditions (meaning the drugs I take have caused them), and daily take about 15 prescription medications.
My heart condition was not based on cholesterol, high LDL, low HDL, sclerosis of the arteries or any other self-inflicted medical issue. My condition was known as idiopathic cardiomyopathy (meaning the doctors have no clue what was wrong). The kidney transplant was a result of both protenuria and poisoning from prescription medications. Diabetes – who knows!
Next time you falsely (or better, ignorantly) accuse someone of being healthy or not, especially based solely on their physical characteristics, be a little smarter. Stop and think of the possibilities. Maybe even inquire to the person directly. That is if you have the cojones to do so!
This is simply another case of blind hate and social racism just like what whites did to the Native Indians, African Americans, and now Hispanics. So why not – obviously only the PERFECT people have rights and feelings. Go ahead and add the overweight to the list of the persecuted (do we remember the Jews?). Who is next?
Wake up people. There is a lot of gray area in this black and white world!!!
I was wondering what sizes people were thinking might be to big? Yes I do think a size 14 is to big but I also think a size 2 is to small (both depending on body structure.)
As I said before, pant size is a pitiful indication of health. Anyone can take a pant with a 35 inch waist and slap a size 4 lable on it and there, poof, are you healthy? Body fat percentage, BMI, cholesterol, resting heart rate.. all these are indicators of healthiness, not pant size. Plus, I've seen lots of people brag about being a size 8.. sure, you're a size 8 with a size 16 muffin top!!
Obesity is a health issue and promoting acceptance of it is misguided. It's not wrong to have standards if there's a good reason for them.
Maura Kelly sounds like an insecure moron. I'm sure there's a lot of people disgusted by the sight of her, too.
I think she wrote that o generate buzz. Good for the magazine.
What a masochistic magazine that must be.
People can feel whatever they want. Personally fat people are gross...what kind of example does that set for our children? Everyone has an opportunity to take care of themselves and be roles models for the youth of today. It really is as easy as taking an hour a day and planning out your meals, planning an exercise regiment, and generally being smart!
What disturbs me most is watching morbidly obese people in wheelchairs because they are too fat to walk, which means they are too fat to work which means they are on benefits and my taxes pay for it. My taxes pay for people who overate their whole lives who become sick and disabled with diabetes and everything else related to obesity..I see fat young women,very fat, loading up at the Seven Eleven with mountain dew, candy, potato chips with a food stamp card my taxes paid for.. now THAT is disgusting. I support anybody's choice to live their own lifestyle, including a lifestyle of overeating, but I shouldn't have to pay for somebody elses obesity problems with my tax dollars
You do realize the disability probably came FIRST, right? Right? What, you never thought of that before? Most obese folks you see in wheelchairs were disabled, which limited their ability to work. Limited income means poorer food choices. Also, many disabilities that restrict movement also affect things such as metabolism, and certainly restrict ability to exercise. Ever thought of that?
the article is supposed to say something, not simply be a hype-mongering technique to get more angry people making comments. lisa france, next time could you offset all of the opinionated rabble of the readers with some of your own professional writing? thanks
I am obese. I have also lost 80 lbs. My spiral into obesity began in a Dr's office. My dad had died. I was 11 and depressed. My mother was worried that I would gain weight. I was not fat, not even chubby. But the Dr wrote on my chart concerns about "obesity" I saw this when he laid my chart on the counter. As an 11 yr old I did not understand why I was at the Dr. I was not sick. So I went home and looked up the word obesity. The definition, "Grossly overweight." In that day "gross" meant disgusting. SO my 11 yr old understanding latched on to the fact that a DOCTOR called me disgustingly overweight.
When people speak their opinions about fat people, remember that your opinion could dramatically impact a child. I'm now winning the battle that started in a Dr's office.
When did it become okay for anyone to make fun of anyone else for weight, or skin color or whatever the case may be, this needs to stop. I am not a thin girl, and I do not see myself as fat either, but I am overweight. But, I am happy with my self, and with my body that is all that matters. I get so tired of seeing comments from people saying how "fat people are gross", let me ask you this, do you think overly thin people are gross also? Everyone needs to realize that not everyone can be size 6, and I am sure not everyone would want to be. And we need more overweight people in tvshows/movies, we need to start showing kids you do not have to be a certain size to be beatiful, they need role models other than stick figure models/actresses.
Woah! Totally disagree. The last thing we need to show our kids is that it's OK to be fat. It's NOT OK. It's unhealthy and will lead to all kinds of diseases. No way should fat be mainstream.
The issue here is that we have blurred the line between "overweight," "obese," and "morbidly obese." I am a runner. I run 4-5 marathons a year and finish very close to Boston Marathon qualifying time for my age (32). I log a minimum of 40 miles of running a week. I am 5'10" and I weight 168 lbs. By my body fat measurements and my BMI my weight is "healthy," I have a body fat of 23% and a BMI of 14.... but I wear a size 14. My doctor says I am fitter than an 18 year old athlete, in terms of BP, Cholesterol, Heart Rate, etc. BUT – by rules of fashion, I am considered overweight.
The picture of the 2 characters above indicates that by my guess, they would be considered obese or morbidly obese. I have noticed that most of the people commenting about how they are "size this" or "size that" are focusing on what size of clothes you wear, but that is not a scientific indicator of current or future risk of bad health. If you are 5'5" and weigh over 180 lbs, you are clinically obese. Not overweight. Obese. It doesn't matter if you wear a size 10, 15, or 20, being clinically obese puts you in a tremendous risk group for heart disease and type II diabetes, no matter how healthy you eat or how many times you walk your dog.
Stop focusing on jean size and start focusing on body mass. That's where the danger lies. Your heart doesn't care what size your pants are.
Crud.. BMI of 24.. not 14... that would be the opposite (and potentially MORE unhealthy) extreme!
Been there, Shawna. I weigh 154 pounds. Fat, right? But I'm just under 6' tall and have a BMI of 21.5. My body fat percentage is 22. I am very fit, have low BP, high HDL and low LDL. I past age 50 a while ago, so as far as actuarial tables go, I am thin. But I wear a size 6 or 8 depending on the manufacturer, so by Hollywood and fashion standards, I am a blimp.
@TM Diabeeteez "Everyone knows that being overweight is unhealthy." Oh really? Funny how the latest research shows that people that are 20 to 40 percent overweight have average HIGHER life expediencies than people who weigh less. Scientists have also studied rates with genes believed to make them fa. They found these animals eat three times less then the other rats yet, weighed much more. You could be out exercising right now TM why aren't you? You are lowering your life expectancy by worrying about other peoples lives instead of yours, when you could be using this time to exercise. As far as "eating is an addiction just like drugs yadda yadda yadda." Well guess what you are WRONG. Hunger is natural and is built in. You can't just give up food like you canCocaine or alcohol because you will most certainly die. Hunger is the strongest desire built in to ALL animals. As an imperfect Human, you have hundreds of vices and imperfections. Until you can look in the mirror and say that you have NEVER made mistakes or are perfect, than you have no right to judge other people just because they don't look the way you want them to. Because beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To some you are a disgusting ugly creature, so get over yourself and worry about your own life and body.
I cannot imagine having so dull a life myself that I would waste time worrying about how other people look and trying to make myself superior by name-calling and making statements that someone else's looks are something that should be hidden from my sight.
We live in a sorry, spoilt, self-absorbed society if this is what we have come to.
I've been skinny all my life. 42 yrs. Now, I'm getting fat and quite enjoying it!
While what the Marie Claire author wrote was insensitive and brutal, her point is serious. Obesity is a problem. It kills people, and the issue needs to be discussed far beyond "body image, self esteem and perception." When people choose not to address their own serious health issues and remain unhealthy, they are affecting the lives of everyone that cares about them, not just themselves. Obesity leads to chronic health problems, lack of energy, and depression. Our country is plagued with this issue right now, and it needs to be addressed seriously.
I couldn't agree more. I got fit because I have been watching my father die for 10 years. Now I have to explain to my young children why Papa can't play with them.. why his legs are black because of poor circulation.. why he has to wear a mask to sleep.. all because he refuses to take care of himself and doesn't see his weight as an issue to anyone but himself. How do I explain apathy to a 5 year old? Why should I have to??
Her article seemed more like a personal and unprofessional rant tied to her own self loathing than a piece on the effects of obesity. Just because it was the subject of the piece, doesn't mean that was the message. And if by some chance that was the message, her coating it in her bigoted, hateful personal beliefs blew the chance of getting the right message across.
30% of our population is obese or overweight. Welcome to the US. Who cares about the weight. It's all about the writing. THAT'S what wins emmys.
Uhhh....the stats aren't 30% overweight or obese....try almost 70% of Americans overweight and obese. We're 3rd in the world for being fat. It has become normal in the U.S. to be overweight–and we should resist just accepting it, or we can start giving up most of our material luxuries in exchange for the cost of our medical care. That said, there's rarely a need to criticize people who are struggling with their weight. What exactly would be Maura Kelly's objective or purpose in venting her squeamish reaction to the morbidly obese? To prove she's the leader of the click in high school deciding who is in and who is out? Grow up, Kelly.
Eat REAL food, not too much, mostly vegetables. And exercise in moderation. Take a few weeks to jump start your life style, but each day enjoy being healthy in this moment. Take an interest in your choices. RIght now. Yes, you will lose weight, but more importantly, it's what you replace it with: REAL food, healthy choices, being in this moment. That's all you really have to do right now. Weight loss is hardly the focus. But I guarantee you this too will occur.
Comments about overweight people on TV depict an unhealthy lifestyle that is a bad role model for society? TV has LOTS of programs featuring people getting shot, doing drugs, and committing various other crimes. Talk about unhealthy lifestyles and poor role-modeling! As TV role models, I'll take funny overweight people over fashionably slender felons any day.
The difference being that (in general) drug use is not glamorized/portrayed as a normal or good thing. Usually if it is the show warrants a severe rating.
There is a difference between being overweight and obese, just as there is a difference between being underweight and emaciated, and perhaps the author could have differentiated between those two terms. And while there are plenty of obese people who are perfectly healthy or are obese because of medical reasons, the majority of obese people do not exercise as much as a person with a 'normal' BMI, and usually their food intake is less ideal.
I understand what people are saying about obesity as unhealthy and that we shouldn't be promoting it as okay.
However, there are some frighteningly thin actors/actresses/models on TV and in the media also...which, can I say, isn't necessarily healthy either. There have been reports of some people in the entertainment industry having problems with eating disorders. Why is it okay to "promote" that?
Most actors are normal weight. A small few are underweight.
People are fat because that is how they generally cope with stress. Some of you do coke, some are alcoholics, some of you beat your wives or exercise excessively. Being fat doesn't make anyone less of a person, it's just harder to hide than everyone else's additions and emotional crutches. If you 'hate' fat people for being fat, then shut your eyes and remember you're no better a person because you're thinner.
No being fat doesn't make you LESS of a person, it actually makes you MORE of a person. More stomach, more a55, more thighs, etc.
All this more talk is probably making you fatties think "more candy!"
Doesn't anyone remember "Roseanne"?
i use to be overweight,i was a size 6 in hs, then after my 3 kids i was a size 18 now 3 years later after eating rt and walking everyday i am a size 10. i love my curves!!! as for marie c. i will not be buying that any longer...they should fire that writer..no one deserves to be talked about like that no matter what there thoughts are. this is how i see it in a nut shell : if you do not like someone for who they really are then shut ur shallow frakin butt up!
P.S. Viva La Roseanne!
Another PC issue in the US. You can't call blacks, black or fats, fat, they are african american and overweight. NO, they are what they are, black and fat people. I don't know a single men friend of mine who would even look at a woman with rolls. Being overweight is gross, I look myself in the mirror and disgust myself when I'm 10lbs over my normal weight. I disgust myself when I get drunk, when I used to smoke, even when I don't take a shower, so why shouldn't I get disgusted when I see that in public? I just can't stand it.
I think people really need to lighten up on fat people. We obviously know that we are unhealthy and don't look "good" to most people. Some of us don't care but some of us do and can't do anything about it. Dieting and exercising isn't easy for those that don't have the courage for it. Yes, it takes courage. Lots of it. I have yo-yoed all my life between a size 12 and now a size 26. I am an emotional eater which is hard because I do have severe depression and anxiety, so I'm almost always eating because something is almost always bothering me. Making fun of me for being fat or staring at me isn't going to help matters. I'll probably just go home and eat more, so if you think I'll change for the sake of your viewing pleasure then you're wrong. It's counter productive to badger me about it or others like me really. I'm not going to hop on a treadmill to get revenge on anyone because the reality is that I'll get frustrated or depressed and end up eating a candy bar anyways. Yes I realize I am probably killing myself, but sometimes that doesn't bother me because why would anyone want to live like this?
You owe it to your future self to change. Every action you take you have to live with. Within 2 years, you could be jogging, hiking, swimming for fun. You could extend your life, and enjoy the rest of it. Giving up isn't o.k. Fight back, it's easier than ever to win these days. Fitness isn't just about looking good. It's about fulfilling a basic human requirement of activity. We aren't meant to be sedentary. Please just don't give up. You owe it to the person you want to be.
I've been trying for years. I even signed up at the YMCA and that didn't help. Going there was like paying for people to point and laugh at me behind my back. The last time I went there were three teenage girls staring at me and whispering the entire hour. These days I rarely leave the house anymore. Can't exercise in my own home either, I live in an apartment on the second floor. The old people living below me wouldn't be happy to hear my stomping during exercising. Tried yoga, it's worthless in the calorie burning area so no one suggest that.
You have the rest of your life to get fit. Giving up is just that. You could just go walk around outside til bedtime. You can listen to music to ignore others. Giving up is a condition only you can create. Don't give yourself an excuse. Surround yourself with the right people. People can lose more than 100 lbs in a year. Just cut out the binge eating. The exercise will get easier. It starts with one step. Never ever allow yourself to give up. It's like slow suicide. If a man with no limbs can swim. You can reverse a lifetime of bad habits. The human mind is the most adaptable thing on Earth. No excuses are needed, you either quit, or succeed at trying.
i've heard of mike and molly but i've never heard of marie clarie or maura kelly
Attempting to normalize obesity on the virtue that most people are now obese is silly. If everyone jumps off of a cliff, they all die early. Just like the obese. Everyone knows being obese is bad for the health. Food addiction is an addiction, much like pills or heroin and alcohol. Some people are disgusted by an abvious display of addiction. If kids see fat people portrayed as happy and able to dance around without several takes they start to think it is o.k. And then they are doomed too. But when in every scene the actress takes a deep breath before speaking and is always leaning on something, it's time to admit failure and get off t.v. and get healthy. (Think House if Payne). Joking about being morbidly obese is equally as disturbing as watching a junkie casualize their own drug use.
If you are addicted to food, you eat when your sad, or you feel tired from basic activity. Do something about it. Every medical cause of obesity now has a treatment. From Cushings, thyoid issues, and gigantacism, and plain obsessive compulse eating. Heroin addicts don't expect sympathy, neither should any other addict. If your mind is intact it should occur to you that action is needed. Hating Fat people is a little harsh, so is hating drug addicts. But the reasons for it are the same. If your fat and want to change you deserve support, if your fat and bitter and not willing to change; then your misery is your own fault. Everyone can be fat, or fit. It's a choice.
So when is the last time an overweight person who had an extra twinkie at lunch broken into your home and ransacked in an effort to find either more twinkies or money for twinkies? Now do you really think the creators of that show sat down and decided they had a mission? A mission to normalize obesity? Surely you are more logical than that. Let's face it, there are overweight people in the United States. Shocker I know! Did you know, there are even handicapped people? Yes, please contain yourself. Can you imagine the character on Glee in the wheelchair?! I mean he has even had two girlfriends on the show, and they have (containment Sir!) kissed! I guess my point is, there are skinny people, overweight people, people of many ethnic origins and backgrounds, people of different religious backgrounds and people who deal with disabilities, and that is just life. Sweeping it under the rug and pretending it doesn't exist (and not having anyone deviate from the standard acceptable quo on television) doesn't make all of those different people go away. Learn to accept people for who they are. Overweight people aren't any less capable of being good, kind, attractive, intelligent or funny than their thin counterparts.
Not all addicts steal. There is no good excuse to be fat. being fat means you have failed to take charge of your own health. Making jokes about how it's funny to be fat, is soothing to fatties. But it's just as wrong as trivializing anorexia or cocaine abuse. It happens. But that does not make it acceptable. Being fat, is a a failure to self regulate. So no fat people can't be as attractive as normal people, because of highly evident self abuse. Accepting yourself, doesn't mean you yourself are accepted by others. Weakness is the primary reason for exclusion from social groups, obesity is a core weakness. And since i've never even heard of a fat person who liked being fat (and telling the truth) I can only assume it is a condition not to be advocated or taken lightly. Obesity is like giving yourself a terminal disease and ignoring the cure. you deserve what you get. Sorry, but no sympathy for self destructive behaviour.
Regarding: “So anyway, yes, I think I'd be grossed out if I had to watch two characters with rolls and rolls of fat kissing each other ... because I'd be grossed out if I had to watch them doing anything."
What a disgusting thing to say. You know, sometimes the ugliest part of a person's body is his or her mind.
And yes, I have "rolls and rolls of fat". I have a wonderful beautiful wife who is plus-sized. I love her greatly and will never suppress simple acts of affection with her because someone like that finds it repulsive. If you don't like it, stop staring at my big fat ass and get a damn life.
God bless you, Big Guy – your wife is a lucky lady. Thanks for taking up for those of us that are larger. The fact is, every single one us brings both gifts and problems to our lives, but the holier than thou ("I exercise, eat right and never have a problem") will have a wake up call someday, and the karma of the universe can be awesome. There is no need for such mean spirited, hateful comments as have been posted here. I really appreciate the positive ones.
Seems to me that both the people who speak of being grossed out by fat people and the fat people who feel the need to attack back both need to examine why they react that way. If you are happy and secure in yourself and your body, you would not feel the need to attack others or even spend time having an opinion on the bodies of others at all. Maybe ask yourself why you feel that way. To me, it's sad that people feel the need to focus on and hurt others instead of just being happy. May sound cheesy but so does being disgusted by people who look different from you or being hurt by the comments of someone who is so obviously lacking in their own self esteem.
Me want food. You give now. Me get naked and dance Macarena. You watch.
You all people who comment? You all people is very extra stupids. Please be more quiet instantly. Thank you please
Funny how fat people always justify being fat. It's not my fault...I'm way healthier than a skinny person...I'm just big boned...blah blah blah....... I was fat but you know what? I got off my @$$, ate right, and worked my body into shape. Easy? NO. Worth it? Yes. Stop Bsing, if you are happy good for you, but don't pretend that it is good for you. Just because everyone is doing it doesn't make it good or better.
You may be entertained Mr Steven Seagull (ha ha ha), but you are not entertaining, you are a closed minded biggot.
It's spelled "bigot" and I'm not being bigoted. I'm just laughing at how serious everyone gets over something stupid.
Now go back to eating your cake.
Americans are one of the fattest nations in the world Miss Marie Clair.
Some of the people on here are so ignorant. Size 12 is not unhealthy. Marilyn Monroe was a size 8 to a size 10 (some say 12, but the sizing back then was somewhat different). Some people can eat healthy and exercise and STILL not be a size 4. I'm in the health field, and I know this to be true. I also know women that are size 2 and haven't worked out a day of their life. Skinny doesn't equal healthy. Those of you who are criticizing a woman for being a size 12 really need to take a second look at the world and realize we're not all built the same regardless of how we treat our bodies.
I'm pretty sure the actress who plays Molly is not a size 12, unless she's about 4'5". She looks more like a size 22/24 to me.
And even then, she still might be perfectly healthy. And even if she isn't healthy, there's nothing wrong with her making out with her TV husband on-screen, and those who think there is something wrong with it ought to change the channel and shut up.
What is "gross" about overweight people is not so much how they look but that they're being fat is a symbol of the laziness and lack of self control in this country. The me first mentality. Unless you have a thyroid or other genetic problem, you get fat by sitting on your ass and being inactive and eating FAR more calories and far more junk than is healthy or reasonable. Then when they get diabetic or suffer heart disease and other health issues, they expect those who live lives that are not sloth like or gluttonous to pick up the tab. And they play the victim. Get off the couch, be active and eat well. And stop whinging that people who are healthy and care about their health don't sympathize.
as far as i know the only perfect person was Christ. so unless you're him, i'd say there are many things about you that people find disgusting. overweight people can lose weight but you'll always have a small penis.
Yet those with "thyroid or other generic problems" get ridiculed and bullied right along with folks who don't. Thanks for nothing.
bananas for all!
I LOVE the show Mike & Molly...super funny! One of the best sitcoms I've seen in a long time. If you don't like it, don't watch it, lol.
Seems to me those who speak out against over weight people, know very little about them! My daughter has a metabolic disorder that came to attention after she ended up taking some meds. No one knows what issues others have and for anyone to come down hard on over weight people, might not be getting the "big" picture. If you are "grossed" out about overweight people then, don't become overweight yourself, and don't watch the shows that gross you out. Please... do everyone a HUGE favor and educate yourself about the overweight issues before you open your mouths and say anything.
How come every time someone is overweight it's not their fault? It's metabolism or thyroid or something other than them eating two three or four times the calories they should each day of junk and then not exercising. I am 43, 5' 11" and weigh 165. I eat the 2000 to 2500 calories a day that I should. And I exercise five days a week. If I stopped exercising and started feeding my face and sitting around all day drinking beer, guess what, I'd get fat. Or at least heavy. The body needs respect and upkeep, especially as one gets older. It's called "letting yourself go" unfortunately even kids these days sit on thei butts playing video games and pigging out.
Hey, James, maybe you just hear from folks with medical conditions on boards like this because we get really, really, really tired of being judged and ridiculed when we're working our butts off- hopefully literally- trying to be a size most people don't have to fight for? We speak up because the ignorance not only is showing, but it is shown in a cruel, nasty, ugly way that needs to be countered by real information and intelligence? Maybe we just understand that folks who judge others based on their weight are ignorant bullies who need to think about possibilities instead of spouting hate and ignorance?
Sorry, but I have to agree with James on this one. Most overweight people I see eat and eat and EAT. I know one woman with a "thyroid problem" who will eat four plates PLUS dessert at her family's barbeques. Meanwhile, I'll have one plate with no dessert. I overdo it at buffets and on special occasions just like the next person, yet I don't do this all everyday. That's why I maintain a healthy weight. It's gotten to where I almost can't stand going to any buffet restaurant anymore because it's so disgusting watching fat people pile plate after plate. Look around – they're usually there when you arrived and still going back for more when you leave. Please don't tell me that's a "metabolic" issue. Oh, and one other major reason the rest of us have issues is because heavy people no longer seem to dress accordingly. It's disgusting watching a truly obese person come in wearing tight shorts and a tank top with bra straps hanging out. That's become the norm though. I'm sorry for those who truly have physical ailments causing obesity, but most people just don't know when to stop eating.
It is a fact that obesity levels have skyrocketed in the last 30 years, and it isn't our genetic makeup nor frequency of metabolic disorders that changed in that time. The vast majority of obesity is caused by energy imbalance; consuming too much and expending too little. That being said, it is not compassionate nor fruitful to blame and scold people for their energy imbalance problems. Clearly with such a large proportion (no pun intended) of our population being affected by obesity, there are things we need to change about our society/environment.
Anybody here remember a movie by the name of "Marty"? This show is almost the same principle.
A movie I wish they'd remake. Modernize it a bit but keep to the same premise.:)
Haters gonna hate.
You have to be truly insecure about yourself to say some of the most horrible things I have ever read. You all should be ashamed. You all will get whats coming to you. It's called kharma. Did you ever think us bigger people think you skinny people are aesthetically disgusting? You should because the mirror goes both ways, beanpoles.
dumb woman. where's you're owner you fat piece of garbage. i hope you get breast cancer
Fat people are lazy and disgusting. You get one body. Take care of it.
you mad bro?
The ignorant aspect of placing such an article in Marie Claire, is the perpetuating stereotype of "thin" in America. Girls growing up will only think that it's okay to be unnaturally thin because of the stupid pushing in magazines that only thin is acceptable. I'm sick of this crap. I'm sick of seeing girls come into rehab because of some eating disorder, having to have tubes forced into them so they can get nutrition. And when you ask them where they get this idea of being thin from, it's always magazines and TV. Editors who allow such articles to be published should be ashamed of themselves.
The big bang theory makes fun of dumb people, how come you guys aren't arguing that?
It's because most of the people that are dumb are too busy arguing about how being fat is healthy.
I think it presents a funny, human and endearing portrayal of the challenges of being "brains."
Big Bang Theory makes fun of everyone, smart and dumb. And it respects the characters too, showing them as flawed human beings, not labels. The chracters who are genius level smart have a hard time understanding people, and subjects outside their area of study, which is very familiar to those of us who know real people like that. There is a difference between that, and the constant insulting humor directed at fat people in Molly and Mike. Big Bang will spend the whole episode setting up a joke about how Sheldon and Penny see a situation differently, while Molly and Mike are just looking for an excuse to break a chair or order a half dozen pizzas.
TBBT does make fun of stupid people but they don't say they are completely disgusted by having to look at a stupid person or listen to a stupid person.
The Marie Claire article was funnier then all those "fat" tv shows. Especially mike and molly. We should just stop making scripts about overweight people and how many jokes we can come up with about them and start getting real people on tv just saying there real feelings towards them. People are mean and that makes me laugh.
It would seem that my wife is right, overweight people are the only group in America where it's ok for them to be prejudiced against.
Marie Claire's editors should be absolutely ashamed & appalled. The editor who let this piece be published should be fired immediately, as should Maura Kelly, for poor editorial judgment & for terrible compassion judgment. If it hadn't screwed up enough last month with its piece on health-conscious bloggers, it's really done itself in now. I suspect Marie Claire won't be long for the newsstands – & rightfully so. Give me my Glamour any day; it's the last women's fashion magazine with integrity & compassion.
I like that the Marie Claire reporter spelled heroin "heroine"...aren't there editors?
I read a article about a group in India that force feed there females. Because only after being at least a hundred pounds over the worlds ideal weight are they considered beautiful. I'm a size 10. What size anyone else is,I could care less. My life is too full to belittle or even worry about some one else's size. I like me and those who don't because of my full figure and curves, their lost not mine. If my size is a factor, then you'll never see my heart.
Though there’s a certain truth in this, character interest precludes everything. At least in my opinion. For example: In the Maltese Falcon, the villain was all the more interesting for his loathsome size, in Citizen Kane, Orson Welles’ heavy-set, late years reinforced his power, and Lou Costello’s rotund shape was the perfect foil for his skinny pal, Bud Abbott.
Besides, who would want a skinny Santa!
I love the show. I don't care if a person is skinny or fat or what a person does...it's their own personal choice (and sometimes it's not). Bottom line...it's none of my business, I think I'm more concerned about the diabetic that sneaks the cookies and donuts in the office. Or the person that had a heart attack eating those Italian Subs with oil, mayo and a side of chips. Or, the person that doesn't eat anything and if they do, they throw it up. Bottom line...just because a person is skinny doesn't mean they are healthy. We all have our problems or will have. I wish people wouldn't be so judgemental.
I am a small woman but I am offended in a BIG way when I hear anyone being nasty about someones size. As for the Marie Claire writer, she should be ashamed. If she thinks fat is gross, how does she feel about the impossibly thin models purging in the toilet? She needs to get over herself and eat a cheeseburger. How could she be so mean?
Go to Facebook and like this group:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oppose-Maura-Kelly-and-Marie-Claire/161819507173754#!/pages/Oppose-Maura-Kelly-and-Marie-Claire/161819507173754
Yeah, that Maura Kelly looks like Donkey on Shrek with that nose and them teeth! I think it would be "aesthetically displeasing" to see her kissing ANYBODY (teeth so big, she might chew your lips off)! If my choice was to look like Maura or have a few extra pounds I would choose the latter!
Obesity & poor general health in the country is out of control & everyone (thin, fat & in-between)is in need of some education about proper life style chgs that can improve health – from yoga to stomach banding, everyone can do something. Physical appearance is personal taste, that's our great freedom – to choose & express. We all don't need to be on the cover of marie claire, but we can all join together & make getting healthy the goal. We'd be a much more tolerable & understanding society.
I would agree. I think the goal is to be healthy and that comes in LOTS of different shapes and sizes. I'm a bigger girl. I always have been though I am currently much smaller than I was in my late 20's. I quit smoking, quit drinking and rededicated myself to working out. I'll never ever be anything smaller than a size 12 nor do I feel the need to be NOR do I think anyone else needs to be. However, one thing that bugged me when I started working out at the gym was the damned if I do, damned if I don't mentality of the thinner people there. I'm pretty thick skinned (one has to be), but I have to say, you make fun of me because I'm fat and then you make fun of me because I'm trying to lose weight AND get healthy? Damned if you do, damned if you don't. You have to be pretty tough to even want to make a change so I applaud the effort of those who do but understand why some don't.
What I really like about Mike and Molly is that the actors on this show are not "kind of chunky" ala a Sarah Rue (who I think was gorgeous before and post her current weight loss) but are actually quite large, especially the actor who plays MIke.
I have just a couple of things to say about people that "appear to be healthy" because they are size 2.
I have had several friends that have passed away at very young ages that were "healthy." I have several older friends, that have some extra body weight to carry around, that have outlived these young ones that. Just because a person spends their days and nights trying to stay physically fit exercising, doesn't mean they can add one day to their lives. Let people live in peace. Stop criti-"sizing" one another.
Whether or not people are overweight are healthy or not is not even the point. The point is not to make others feel bad. The point is not to tear others down because of their physical appearance. The point is that hate breads hate. The point is we all think mean spirited things but we know better not to share it with the world.
I love this show! I like that its funny and has to do with thirty somethings dating....I started watching originally because I like the actress who plays Molly...I remember her quirky humor from Gilmore Girls...Some people are focusing so much on the weight that they are not listening to context of show....remember its television ,its suppose to entertain us,make us laugh...
But the context of the show is what bothers me. I tuned in the first week for no other reason than to support a show and a network that would DARE to have two "juicy" people as its lead characters. We desperately need such things in our society. But then, within 30 seconds I was apalled at the constant fat jokes between the lead guy and his partner. Then I was apalled by the lead gal's mother and sister and how they behaved. Every other punchline was about weight and more than half of them came from the supporting characters. I don't know about anyone other larger people posting here, but as a "juicy girl" I don't allow people who would do or say such things to me into my life. I find this show a HORRIBLE example for young people, because it makes it seem like it's okay for your so-called "friends" or family to make fun of you or sabotage you on a constant basis. If the lead characters were in wheelchairs would it be acceptable to have THEIR friends slamming on their disability every other sentence? The country would be in an uproar! I gave the show three more episodes, hoping it would get better, but it has not and last night I finally removed the series from my dvr. I will not support a show that glorifies bullying and hatred in any form, and that's exactly what "Mike & Molly" is doing. And it's a shame, because I genuinely like the lead actors and think they deserve so much more.
As an obese society, we are definitely in the closet about the issue. Not having a show with big characters until now just proves the point. Our children struggle with weight, as do our loved ones. We know people struggling with weight who have eating disorders, metabolism issues, mental health concerns and we love them. I think having a show, "Mike & Molly" is a step in the right direction. Some reality programming only "appear" to have relevance to society. I hope this show stays on for years to come.
Mike and Molly is not the first TV show with an overweight lead or married couple. Remember the Rosanne show? Or what about Tyler Perry's House of Payne.
Yeah, and what about Rerun and Shirley on "What's Happenin'?"
That is highly inaccurate: "because I can guarantee you that the size 2 person is probably less healthy than someone who's a size 15". I would agree with your statement more if you were to say that they were similar in health. This road goes both ways; just b/c someone is a little heavy, doesn't mean they are unhealthy, ALSO just b/c someone is skinny doesn't mean they are unhealthy either. I am 5'9, 136 lbs., and, depending on the store, I wear a size 2, 4 or 6. I am a healthy person. I have friends who are shorter and little heavier than me, and they are just as healthy as I am. Everyone just needs to back off one another and stay in your own business. Unless someone is extremely overweight or morbily obese, I really don't see why anyone needs to evaluate on someonel else's health or life. Get a new hobby.
I would just like to point out – being overweight isn't being celebrated on this show. They're NOT saying that being overweight is healthy. Both characters are trying to eat right, attending overeater's anonymous, and encouraging each other to be healthier. Obviously, the Biggest Loser is always campaigning for health and lifestyle changes.
I am a size 12, vegan and exercise 3-4 times per week. I don't eat fast food. So, yes you can be bigger and be healthy. Healthy is not a size, healthy is a lifestyle. Just because someone is "fat" doesn't mean they are unhealthy. Look at the bigger picture. Look at their choices before you lump everyone together.
I am also a vegan, and have been for a few years now. When I switched I dropped a bit of weight, but my health improved tremendously! I'm a size 8 but more active and energetic than most of the size 2-6's that I hang out with.
Being Vegan doesn't make you healthy, and definitely won't make you thin. That is the first thing that's wrong with your argument. It's great that you feel good as a size 12, but please don't make us believe that you lead a healthy lifestyle by eating vegan. Perhaps you should actually lose weight by eating meat which will give your body the ability to build muscle to metabolize the fat you have.
This is why I do not buy Marie Claire! Ignorant just plain Ignorant!!
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Oppose-Maura-Kelly-and-Marie-Claire/161819507173754
Who the heck do you people think you are looking down your nose at overweight people? The difference is that THEY can lose weight but youll still be ugly no matter what size you are (those of you that are saying the hateful fat comments that is). Comparing an overweight person to a friggin herion addict? Get off your shallow pedestal and hope that your hips never get as big as your ego because that will be your karma comin to get you. You make me sick. And by the way, Im not overweight, Im not skinny, Im perfect just the way I am.
This Steven Seagal vile creature that keeps ranting is probably a lonely blogger that no one loves and therefore has to go on an anonymous site to spew hate and other disgusting rants... you are a sad, lonely individual and I hope you get help soon. I really do feel sorry for you! I will pray for you because I think you need it. 🙁
You sound like more of an addict than you think. You've been drinking your own kool-aid way too long, and complacency has gotten you to the enlarged state your currently at. Everyone could use some self improvement, so go out for a jog and lay off the cake big buddy.
MarieClaire.com and Maura Kelly, no difference between you and the bullies. You are bullying! If that makes you feel good, you are sick!
THESE ARE BULLIES!
Marie Claire magazine can go to hell for promoting such ill-will toward humanity.
I think Maura Kelly's nose is kind of bulbous.
I think she should have plastic surgery.
Her nose makes me uncomfortable
http://www.guardian.co.uk/profile/maurakelly
And I think her name, Maura, sounds like "Morbid". As in Morbidly close-minded. And Morally corrupt. What an ass to spread such hate.
(now didn't THAT sound ridiculous!)
One thing I've been reading and need a little clarification. Some keep saying a size 12 is or isn't big but the article is in reference about a TV show with people who are way bigger than 12. 12 isn't necessarily big but it is the beginning of a problem if the weight is not monitored.
antibully – way to show your ignorance. So you're saying a nose that someone is born with is as much a lifestyle choice as stuffing 6 big macs down every day ? Very logical and sensible argument. No one is born fat (except a tiny minority). Everyone, howvere, is b orn with the genetic make-up for a particular nose. They can't gym it away.
I love this show.. Finding that new someone can be terrifying when you aren't a supermodel or a bodybuilder type.. we all have flaws and its nice to see a real representation of what some people deal with. not to mention that this show is just down right funny and sweet. who cares what size they are REALLY!! I think its a really cute show.
None of us is perfect. And karma can be gnarly...:)
I can see thinking larger people are disgusting when you see them being taken out of their homes on truckbeds, but those people hardly make me want to cringe.
All of the other characters on the show are just as funny as Mike and Molly. Who cares what size they are?
I am a plus size person and have had all the test ran...I am healthy as far as everyone is concerned. So, its ok to be bigger if they are healthy. Plus, people are people whatever size they are! They all have feelings, which is something no one takes into consideration when they rant about this type of topic. It hurts to be called disgusting and fat...As Gabriel Inglesias says "I'm not fat, I'm fluffy!" 🙂
Joe, ...eejit=you.
It may feel like the doctors have tested everything under the sun, but if you are eating healthy and are active and not at a healthy weight, clearly they haven't tested for everything because something is causing your body to work the way it does. There are so many different ways the human body can be broken, and very few doctors are interested in doing the extensive diagnostics to find the less common ones. It took my wife over 12 years and over 20 doctors to diagnose her problems (celiac and chronic strep) and she still isn't back to fully healthy.
Sam is right, actually. Not everyone has mysterious underlying issues. Do you not even realize the body has a natural "idle" setting, like sitting in a car in park with it running? Peoples bodies have a NATURAL setting, where they will likely remain the rest of their life unless they make DRASTIC changes, which are difficult and sometimes impossible to keep up with. To claim its somehow the doctors fault if they've tested him for "everything" and found nothing wrong is just more ignorance about how the body works. There is no magical medical formula that will make every person a size 6. We did NOT evolve to be size 6's.
if you're 'overweight' and your BMI is higher than it should be youre not healthy. simple as that.
after reading some of the comments from this author's original articile, I think most of the negative opinions are based off of the ignorant assumption that all fat/overweight/high BMI folks are that way by choice or bad habits. I come from a large (both in numbers and each person's individual size) and have struggled with my weight since the 6th grade. My parents went through a long, drawn-out seperation for 6 years. Due to the stress I internalized and the comfort (food) my grandmother offered me, I ballooned and was nearly 250 lbs (female @ 5'10") by 10th grade. I had no idea about calories, exercise, or other options for emotional outlets until it was too late. I was able to lose most of the weight and am now HWP. Given my experience, I assumed for all adults, it was a choice to be fat...until I met my good friend Shannon. Shannon is 5'1" and weighed approx 210lbs when I met her. I assumed I would see her eating cupcakes out of her purse or hiding fast food wrappers when I got in her car. Come to find out, she was a way healthier eater than myself and walked most everywhere. So what gave? Turns out Shannon had been diagnosed and treated for Thyroid cancer the year before I met her and gained 80 lbs in one year. She didn't find out until 2 years into our friendship that her Dr. had been prescribing the WRONG medication for her given that she didn't have a thyroid left in her. It was insane!! So here she is, this beautiful, vivacious, smart individual that had gained almost a whole other person's body weight in a matter of a year due to a medical oversight. She has since lost 40 lbs, but is still struggling into her late 30's with the last 40 lbs. NEVER judge someone just based on their looks, size, or even personality; but for the grace of God, that could be any one of us that has extra weight, acne scars, second-hand clothes, or low social functioning.
I agree with you.
I was anorexic in high school. I passed out all the time, would not eat hardly a thing. But I am old enough that it was before people knew about eating disorders, so my doctor only did brain scans on me. Fortunately, I slowly got out of it on my own as I left high school and was in university, but it messed my body up. My thyroid is shot, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure at the age of 28, and I get horrible low blood sugara attacks if I don't eat small amounts, throughout the day. And yes, now I am what people would call "fat". I am active, I walk my dog twice a day, for at least an hour. I own my own home, so I garden a lot, shovel all the snow, haul gravel, dig out dirt to plant trees etc. But yes, I wear a size 18. I am sorry that that might offend some people, but it is better than being dead, which is what I could have been. And yes, I do eat healthy. I don't eat much meat, I eat more veggies that I would like to. I have an elliptical even in my home, and yes, I use it.
But the world sees me and thinks I must be lazy, and a pig. But whatever. I know I am a good person, and I know that God loves me. I volunteer a lot, and I donate a lot of money to charity. Sure I want to be as healthy as I can, but there is only so much I can do. I did the damage years ago, and I am just happy to be alive. I am pretty sure that I did shorten my life by being anorexic, but I can't change the damage that was done. I can just be as healthy as I can, and not worry about those who will look at me and judge.
So I am happy to have truly normal people on television. I like this show. It is cute, and much better than some of the junk out there!
Thank you for sharing – it is refreshing to read something positive here. Over the years I've gone from extremely obese (300 lbs) to very thin (160 lbs) and now somewhere in the middle (240 lbs) as a 36 year old male. One thing I've learned over the years is that the people who tend to be the most critical about "fat people" are people themselves who are scared to death of becoming overweight. A little fear is good sometimes...but most of the time it's not the other person personally that's making people cruel...it's the mirror effect that causes them to look within. And for most of these narrow minded individuals...if it's not someone's weight they're critiquing they'll find something else to banter on about.
We all know that being overweight isn't healthy. But being thin doesn't mean you're automatically healthy either. Judging people on their appearance goes both ways...in fact some of the worst I've witnessed with (former) friends was to a girl who was anorexic and must have weighed 80 pounds. Fat, thin – people never seem to be happy.
Don't assume anything by what you see on the surface! As a lifelong martial artist I see surprised looks all the time in my training by thin and fit people who learn very quickly that I can overpower them instantly. The same goes for some very thin experts I've met who don't have big muscles or look intimidating, but they're walking death machines. I think everyone needs to experience some of life with some type of disability or weight issue...learning compassion makes you a better person, most of the time. 😉
Great observations! It is a shame that people judge others based on their own ignorance, rather than minding their own business and worrying about themselves first. For example, I put on a ton of weight suddenly, and in a panic, ran to my doctor. Despite a very strict diet and rigorous exercise program, I just kept gaining. It was horrible, and the comments people make! It is amazing how people feel free to be so rude! It turns out that I had gone diabetic, and few people are aware there are forms of diabetes that actually CAUSE massive and sudden weight gain, rather than being caused BY weight gain. It becomes a vicious cycle. So many folks- including doctors, I'm sorry to say- are so entrenched in the idea that diabetes is caused by weight gain, it got completely overlooked as a possible problem! With a common medication and a diet adjusted not just for calories, but also for carbohydrates and for timing, the scale is going back the other way at last. Is it rare? Yes. Do most overweight people need to look at their eating habits? Well, even I did, with a medical condition- its not just how much you eat, but what you eat, and even when you eat! But to judge someone who is overweight just because you are not? Just count your own blessings, and keep your judgments to yourself, lest your own faults and issues be judged by others.
whoever said that they went from obese (300) to thin (160) to normal (240) needs to realize that they actually went back to being obese. Good job champ... remember to trust your heart to lipitor, you're going to need it.
Yes. I know Im fat. Yes. I have been fat since 12 years old. Yes. I get you are disgusted by me. Yes. I hear the snickering and guffawing when I pass by. Yes. I heard you comment about the earthquake. Yes, I know you think I should eat healthier. Yes, I know you hate all us fatties.
But do you want to know something? I wasnt put on this planet to please you. I wasnt put on this planet to bow down to your beliefs on how I am going to live my life. So in an eggshell, I really dont care what anyone says about me. I dont care if you think Im disgusting when I kiss my fat boyfriend in public. And I dont care if you think we should all be put in fat camps.
But what I care about, is people out there being so hateful that my 5 year old niece already has an eating disorder. Refusing to eat a cookie because she doesnt want to get fat. Refusing to eat much of anything because she cries, afraid that someone is going call her fat. The other day I had to sit with her for 20 minutes and calm her down because she grew out of a pair of pants. She literally cried saying she was getting fat. And yes, we are teaching her good eating habits and she is more active than any 5 year old I have ever seen.
So before you start mooing when some fatty walks by and before you start making hateful comments about fat people, remember that if you are a parent, it is your duty and right to make sure they grow up to be understanding individuals who are NOT raised with that kind of hate in their heart. Because if you teach children to discriminate now. Even on the little things as weight, you are essentially raising a bully that could cause a greater harm as they grow older.
We as fatties arent asking you to start chunking up. We are asking you to let us lead our own lives even if you dont accept it. But dont raise bullies like the bullies I am seeing on this thread.
Thanks for the sympathetic comments. It's refreshing after all the diatribes pouring over this thread. I, too also experienced massive weight gain as the result of diabetes (yes-I was a skinny 128 pounds femaile when I was diagnosed, and I'm almost twice that now, 20 years later) and the meds I have to take, for this and a bone disease, are making it hard to lose the weight. But even though I measure all my meals; eat no sugar or junk food; and exercise every day, I'm still fat. As for healthy? Blood preassure: 110/55, pulse rate 55 bpm at rest, and cholesterol at 155–all with no other meds...sounds pretty healthy to me 🙂
Seriously?
You should be watching the show and not caring about weight. It's ridiculous that there aren't more "Real" people on TV. Yes I love the beautiful people on all the shows but it paints a picture that we "Must" look like them. No I'm not over weight. But I just feel like we need to look at people as people and not "Fatties"... For all the haters take a look at yourself and maybe you should try to get a grip on what's real in life. BTW the show's not bad...
"Real" is a term for denial and trying to justify obesity. More than half of our society is overweight/obese and if we keep trying to make it OK then we are in for a huge financial wake up call even more so than we are in now. Plain English, fatter people have MORE health problems but I guess it is OK now that everyone (or almost everyone) will have health care. Take a pill and make the symptoms go away instead of changing the lifestyle that got you there in the first place.
Carol Ann, I hate to break it to you but you...yes YOU...are going to die just like everyone else. Instead of worry about how other people live their lives, shut up and worry about living your own life to the fullest.
I don't find watching large people 'disgusting'. But I don't think it's a lifestyle we should encourage either. I'm a size 4 and while I don't find larger people 'aesthetically displeasing' in any way, I do know there are serious health issues with that. It's like we go from on extreme to the other. Be sickly thin or sickly big.
You know that Marie Claire article is what is wrong with the world today and she is a part of the reason that girls (younger and younger, everyday now) are starving themselves and going on diets when they are only 12! How could you look at yourself in the mirror and call yourself a good person and then turn around and judge someone because of the way that they look. I guarantee she wouldn't say it to a "fat" person's face. I do believe in living a healthy life, but you don't have to be a size 2 to be healthy because I can guarantee you that the size 2 person is probably less healthy than someone who's a size 15. Get over yourself people and start loving people for who they are and not what they look like because "FAT PEOPLE NEED LOVE TOO!!!"
Mr. Segal, or Seagal (spelling seems to differ from post to post)...
I gained a lot of weight when I quit smoking, but after 3 years I am much healthier and more active then when I was 70 pounds thinner as a smoker. I know I'm fat, but you, "sir," are a PIG.
I agree. I read that article (and yes, I'm obese, but going to the gym 2 days a week, hiking with family on the weekends and going to Weight Watchers is helping me with that) and could not believe what I read. I'd expect those kinds of things from someone's personal blog, not a magazine article. My niece is 11 and has been dieting for the last 2 years because she thinks she's fat. You can see her bones. She is very thin, plays soccer, is very active but still sees herself as fat. I fear for her when the teen years set in.
Whoever wrote that article in Marie Claire should be fired. I thought that magazine was a decent magazine for women. Apparently not.
I think if people don't want to watch it, then don't! No one is forcing anyone to watch any show. That's the beauty of media – it's an individual decision. The only reason why anyone should care about any television show is if it is a reality show where individuals are being exploited and hurt (i.e. Jon and Kate and those poor little 8). Otherwise, just flip the channel if you don't like what's on. Or better yet, read a book!
This is so stupid. The average woman now in days is a 12. This show is extremely funny and I personally cannot wait to see more. Majority of woman in the U.S. are not a size 6 or 8 so people need to get over it. If you don't want to see so called fat people because they gross you out than don't look. Give me a break.
I for one started watching because it was funny and yes again I will say if you dont' like it don't watch but some of us do like and will continue to watch because it is FUNNY!!!
What gives any of us the right to judge someone else? People's weight isn't the issue, it's our culture greatly exaggerated sense of self importance! Who are you, or I to judge someone else? What gives us the freedom to judge? Here's a novel idea, quit worrying about other people's weight and deal with your own life! "Take the plank of wood out of your own eye before you try to take the speck of dust out of someone else's eye."
Actually, as a tall woman with linebacker shoulders, I was a size 12 at 108 pounds (with a 20" waist). A friend described me at size 12 as "looking like an Auschwitz survivor". After being put on prescription medication with weight gain as a side effect, I gained a lot of weight and now look healthy, at something larger than a 12. Everything is proportional.
"And this whole using 'medical conditions' to excuse being overweight is a farce. the only medical condition that will have any affect on weight is drug use. And I dont mean a little pot – prescription drugs are now more damaging, more addicting, and MUCH easier to get than LSD, Marijuana, shrooms, and Heroin."
OH MY GOODNESS...could you be any more ignorant? Doubtful.
How about actually KNOWING what you are talking about before opening your mouth.
Some medical conditions leading to obesity are varied and scientifically recognized–none that I can think of off the top of my head have anything to do with unneeded prescription drugs.
Sometimes it isn't as simple as getting off the couch and exercising and "eating right". By the way "eating right" for some people is eating VERY wrong for others–which "right" diet do you suggest? If you can't think of a specific diet for each medical condition or for even two or three different body types/people–you have never had the pain of "eating right" and still gaining weight. Therefore, your opinion is moot.
Oh my gosh, they aren't promoting a lifestyle or pushing people to eat, they're just ACTORS! It's a TV SHOW. They aren't trying to be health gurus, for pete's sake. You can teach your children healthy habits and that it's not healthy to be overweight without teaching discrimination against people who don't conform to a certain standard. That's not a healthy lifestyle, it's ignorant snobbery. Accepting a person for who they are doesn't mean you're advocating every lifestyle choice they make. And while we're on the subject, being an average height adult woman and wearing a junior's size 0 isn't exactly healthy, either. I'm sure we've all seen these women who look normal, then get famous (like the Friends ladies), then they do whatever it is they do to drop to near skeletal proportions...if I had a daughter, I certainly wouldn't want her thinking she needed to keep her weight in the double digits to be attractive.
@Amazed. For the record, I have one of those medical conditions that causes weight gain and extreme fatigue....and also for the record, I am 5'9 and 140 lbs. I eat healthy and engage in a form of high intensity exercise called Crossfit. I have no sympathy for those who claim it is a medical condition.
AM, I think it is interesting that you assume a woman who is a size 12 is fat. When I was a size 12, I regularly modeled clothes for the local mall. At 5'11", I was downright bony- a 14 was a healthy size for my body type!
@Shiner421 Have you ever heard the term "kicking someone while they are down"? I sincerely hope you never ever approach that poor homeless woman and open your mouth. Your lack of compassion is sickening on the highest level imaginable. Karma rears her head from time to time, and just being the hateful person you are, I'd be worried. If by chance you do have the nerve to walk up to a homeless person and verbally attack them in the manner you claim to wish to, I hope she grabs a pipe and blows one of your knee caps out. I then hope she bites you repeatedly as you wail on the ground. Yep. Really.
People who are a size 12, 14, 16, etc are often much healthier than someone who is a size 6. Health isn't necessarily based on the amount of fat a person has, but instead, how well the heart works. I am a size 6 and am definitely not of a healthy weight for my body type. Thinner people often have more health problems because of the excessive dieting and lack of appropriate nutrition. Many times I've found myself not eating for an entire day because I wanted to stay the weight I was, even though I know my body will store more fat with the next meal I eat to compensate. And please people, understand there is a huge difference between Overweight and Obese and understand that these categories are primarily based on BMI which isn't a very good tool to judge health. For example, a man who is tall and very muscular is considered obese but clearly, this isn't the case. Finally, why can't we just appreciate the talent of these actors no matter what size they are? Chris Farley anyone? Hilarious!
No, there is nothing healthy about being overweight. There's nothing healthy about being so full of hatred towards people either. Some of you need to see a shrink because those that are filled with hate and disgust towards other people are usually just redirecting the hate and disgust they have about themselves.
The average woman may be a size 12, but the lead actress on this show is not a size 12. She's not even close to a size 12. She may be a talented actress, and she may be very funny, but she is not representing average people. There's nothing wrong with a show about overweight people, and they do live and love. I saw one episode of the show and found it was entirely too focused on "we're fat and dumb" for me to enjoy it, but Roseanne was funny and as others have pointed out, she ain't no size 12 either, or she wasn't back then.
Everone has a different body. Some people respond to diet and exercise. Others have more complex issues going on, but modern medicine isn't interested in figuring that out. If you have symptoms and are overweight, the symptoms are caused by the weight, even if you had the symptoms before you gained the weight. If you can do cross-fit, good for you, but keep in mind, things change. You could wake up tomorrow and find every muscle in your body aches for no good reason and walking across the room takes your wind away.
and if you don't like people being disgusted with fat people, then lose some weight, it goes both ways. Bottom line is, breeding drives people, and fat people are not the healthiest stock for breeding, and so, naturally, we find fat repulsive. Fat is and should be repulsive, however, the people are not repulsive, and should not be treated badly, at the same time, people and industry should not have to go out of their way to accomidate fat people.
Please don't say that being a size 6 is unhealthy! I'm a size 6 and very healthy. I eat reasonably, but don't diet, I exercise moderately 30 minutes 3-4 times a week and I've been this size for 20+ years. My body was meant to be this size, otherwise it would "force" me to gain weight. I have a friend who is a size 2 and she is the same way...she eats and exercises moderately and never diets. She is small-boned and meant to be smaller. Some women are meant to be a size 12. It's all relative...
She's hungry and I'm firsty.
I like the show and acceptance for larger women is increasing. I am not a plus size woman but have friends who are and they agree this show is a positive outlook . However, nothing wrong with being size 32 but the men seem to like women a little less plump. If your fat your fat, if your thin your not fat.
Instead of featuring actors who are either very thin or very overweight, why can't we watch people who are normal sized. There are people who are heavier than the average tv actor without being overweight. Also, the fact that shows about plus sized people are separate from shows about skinny people is bizarre. I don't understand why there is an the concept for a show about obese people in the first place. Why not put a mix of shapes and sizes in the same show?
I will admit that being overweight isnt healthy however thinking its easy to drop the weight and live a different lifestyle is ignorant. The people who think thats all there is to it most likely have problems of their own that they havent addressed or cant overcome either this problem is just more visual. After reading many disturbing comments I know that this is the case with a lot of them because such heartless cruel comments stem from something else entirely. By the way it is very normal to be more than a size six in fact it wasnt until recent decades after centuries of human existence did overweight people become the ugly ones. I do think a mixture of size would be better than one size here and another there but since they can't seem to pull it off with varying races why would we expect it with sizes. As for the person who wants to yell at the homeless lady did you ever think she eats out of depression because she is homeless. Is it to much for people to stop judging others because they themselves have problems too its just easier to harrass others so you forget them. Stop wasting your time talking about fat or thin and start speaking out for lower priced healthy food options instead or classes in our schools on healthy living and eating. I think its unhealthy to sit in front of tv as well so to all you watching and hating get outside and do something else anyway!
Love comes in all sizes, and it's about time that the media caught on to that. I am glad they have shows like Mike & Molly, and the great actors to play the characters. I am sad that all the networks banned the Lane Bryant underwear commercials, but blatantly show Victoria's Secret. but LOVE that Fruit of the Loom came out with one. Slowly people are realizing that people come in different shapes and sizes and that people don't have to kill themselves to be one size fits all.
What a god awful lack of humanity there is these days. Overweight people are indeed at risk for health complications and it would serve anyone who is overweight to seek a lifestyle change that will bring their weight to a healthy level. But people like the majority of you who will sit behind a monitor and spout hatred isn't motivational, it's just hurtful. I've been a fitness instructor for close to 9 years, and I've rehabilitated countless overweight clients. Never have I resorted to the cowardly, spiteful and childish insults I've seen plastered all over this blog. A lack of maturity and intelligence is a more dangerous condition than being overweight, and the only ones deserving of ridicule are the adult-sized toddlers who were never taught how to empathize.
Funny... I remember a show that was very popular a decade ago and stared a couple of over-weight folks... It was called "Roseanne".....
This is not the first time overweight characters have been on TV... Why is it such a big deal now?
Those of your spouting your hatred and disgust of fat people are as much too blame when they don't lose the weight. Who wants to go to a gym or out walking when they know that the real losers of the world - that would be all of you who are touting how unhealthy and disgusting it is to see an overweight person is - are out there? Yes, part of the obesity problem is YOU. If you hate fat people so much then what are you doing to help those people lose weight? Nothing, that's what your doing. As the saying goes, if you aren't part of the solution then you're part of the problem.
What is wrong about seeing two fat people kiss? I just don't know what the problem is. Roseanne was one of the most watched shows for years, and she and John Goodman aren't size 2. Just let people be.
People are people, everyone is different. Size is no different then different hair colors, skin colors, accents, beliefs. Why is this country so superficial. If people spent the time trying to better themselves ( as being kind loving people) instead of judging everyone the world would be a much better place.
I agree, Lori. Great post.
Us "fatties" outnumber the "norms" in numbers, mass and weight.
TV should represent the general population demographics.
The only thing that is disgusting about people is the level of their intolerance.
random ntrygg
http://ntrygg.wordpress.com/
She's a woman and he's man and they're trying to start a relationship. Just like everyone else in the world. What has their weight really have to do with any of this? Overweight people aren't allowed to love? We're all different people. I've been overweight and I've been underweight. It's been a struggle all my life. Doens't mean my entire focus in life should be about my weight. I also work and have children, volunteer, pray and party. In other words "Live". My weight has nothing to do with any of that.
I think it is wrong to pick on one group just because they size, my mom is over and I saw how hard it was for her to lose weight and I have gain weight because of health issues sometimes it isn't the persons fault and not everyone isn't size 2 and I use to be thank god I am not because you can't find clothes to fit. I think that there is nothing watching two who are in love showing it no matter what their size
Well, in all honesty, I think the obsession with grossly skinny women with fake breasts is disgusting, but I tend to keep these thoughts to myself. I mean, even if you look at the models in jeans commercials, I fail to to see how there can be anything remotely attractive about women with absolutely no curves or anything feminine about them other than their lipstick. And then on top of that, they turn around to show their "butts" like there is something there other than bones and the thinnest amount of flesh on top of them. But then again, I realize that these are just my personal views and if (IMHO) others see these disgustingly flat butted, flat chested, no feminine curved beings as attractive, then that is great for them.
If the whole nation were hooked on heroin, which is VERY difficult to kick, would we all just roll over and go on Fat Acceptance campaigns? Try to make the junkie look the New Beautiful? Don't diss me cause I can't kick junk? C'mon. I never make fun of overweight people because I DO know that it is NOT easy to change, but it is possible. I work very hard at maintaining my BMI, which is under 18. I know many are not gifted with my level of resolve, will power, and knowledge of healthy eating. Many people that I love, respect, and value deeply are quite overweight. I am well aware that your size does not determine your intelligence or inner beauty. But that aside, just rolling over, giving up, and accepting obesity is what is disgusting. We must gain control over our bodies and our health instead of just giving up.
For nearly all overweight people, food is an addiction. Now think about it; a person can overcome alcohol or nicotine addiction with tremendous difficulty, as well as narcotics and other drugs. I believe this is because these people can live WITHOUT alcohol, nicotine, or narcotics. Doesn't it make sense that overcoming an addiction to food might be far more difficult? You can't live without food. You constantly have your addiction in front of you and you can't get away from it. Show me any recovered addict who can be around their addictive substance 24/7 and not be tempted. Good luck to all of us who struggle to overcome all of our addictions.
I agree with Kathy. Love DOES come in all sizes. And if people have a problem with fat people, it's obvious they have problems with themselves. Why worry about the next person, worry about yourself. Why can't we just accept people for who they are. Looks are only skin deep. Mike & Molly is a refreshing show and I think it was a great idea for a show. I'm a normal sized person and I don't care how skinny or fat people are. What's the big deal anyway? Get over it people.
Society has a duty to accept and help those that are less fortunate, those that suffer a disability or serious illness, or are suffering an injustice. However, drug use, criminallity,lack of morality and glutony are self imposed, the writter is wrong to expect society to not make a very clear distinction between people that are afflicted through no cause of thier own and those with no self control or willpower. And Yes Fat people fall into this category, a miniscule percentage can medically substantiate a legitimate "not my fault' claim, most need to get off the couch, go outside and get some excercise and eat sensibly, No mystery and no sympathy.
The backlash was deserved. I read both articles and watch the show Mike and Molly. It was wrong how she said it and there are many references that can be made about various groups of people. But I wont resort to that. What I will say is mike and molly is show about genuine people who are bypassing their issues in the name of love. If the need for them to be slimmier and more pleasing to the eye just for you. Then are you watching the show or just looking for something steamy on screen?
I used to weigh 272. In a year, using no supplements, I am down to 198, all with proper diet and exercise. I work 8-10 hours a day on average, I have a side job as a bartender on 3 days a week, and I still have time for a boyfriend, social outings, studying (for licensing) and most importantly the gym. It is not easy to change your lifestyle like I did, but if you want to be healthier, you HAVE to make moves. You have to try hard and know you are moving towards something better. Discrimination against fat people isn't good, but being fat, is not good either.
I think the annoying thing about Mike and Molly (apart from its lack of jokes) is the lazy humour of the fat joke, which seems to be its only strand. also is a heroine addict someone who can't stop reading Jane Austen Novels 😉
I personally do not watch the show.
The MC writer was expressing her opinion, but should have anticipated a lash back on her article.
My issue with shows depicting obesse people is that they are normalizing a problem in our society. The US obseity problem needs to be addressed as a diease, which it is. I do not think that it should be in front of our kids, who do watch TV and saying that being that way is ok.
I am not obesse and will not allow myself to even start going down that path. I grew up with an obesse step-father and have no tolerance for fat, lazy people after seeing my step-father be obsessed with putting food in his mouth.
Get the help you need to identify what is driving you to eat, don't just accept it.
Robin makes a very good point-you can't argue with complete ignorance. I would like to make a point perfectly clear-SKINNY DOES NOT EQUAL HEALTHY, folks. Plus sized/overweight people wear their addictions on the outside for all the world to ridicule and I'm quite sick of it.
Apparently it is more socially acceptable in this country to be mean than it is to be fat, which is somehow more of a failure than the lack of empathy and tolerance. Since fat is considered a “choice”, the general mentality is, “If you don’t want people to treat you poorly because of your size, lose the weight.” And if we don’t, or if we try to but it doesn’t happen overnight, then our ridicule is somehow deserved by “normal” folks.
Sorry. In my world it’s not normal to be an asshat. You still have to take responsibility for what you say and how you think. Judging people so superficially is your failure alone.
If all you see when you see a fat person is how unhealthy we are, you’re completely missing out if we’re doing the hard (and arduous) work it takes to be healthier. Just seeing someone on the street isn’t enough reason to throw your narrow-minded viewpoint onto the existence of a stranger.
In other words… it’s your baggage. And you can keep it.
I refuse to carry it anymore.
Anyone ever hear of Jackie Gleason? John Candy? John Belushi? Sydney Greenstreet? Orson Wells?
All of them plus-size actors. All of them icons in the industry. It is not the size of the actor these days, but our perception of size and what we think of it. We are being trained to revile fat. Times, they do change.
I love the last line of the article. Perfection!
I think the show will be great. I feel society in general thinks it is okay to be prejudice against heavy people. Who are you or I to judge large women or men? This seems to be an accepatble form of judgment.
So what if they have more flesh than average! It really is who you are about. Good for the show, I say. Keep on keepin' on!
It's important to legitimize the rights of obese people and television is a great way to do this. Most of our customers at http://www.armstrongadultdiapers.com buy bariatric diapers and shows and articles that help us respect heavier people go a long way to making their lives happier and better.
The issue with Mike & Molly is that their weights are a running theme in the show. I watched a couple of episodes and found it annoying how all the story lines were wrapped up in weight/eating issues.
You may remember a little show called Roseanne, which featured two absolutely hilarious and lovable overweight/obese actors in the main roles. People are fine with overweight actors – but not when the stories involve obsessing over weight and beating themselves up over it. That's just depressing and pathetic.
why cant we just advocate being normal size? while being overweight shouldnt draw discrimination it also isnt something we want to advocate as being ok. its bad for your health and reduces your quality of life. so how about we advocate a healthy lifestyle and trying to be fit without making fat people feel bad about themselves?
I agree with having "average", "Normal" and "Healthy" people on TV. It seems that Tv and Media in general have to go from one extreme to the other with this! I am not going to lie, I love watching biggest loser, it inspires me to get off my butt and workout. But, at the same time I think "how could they let themselves go so bad?". I am not a "Skinny" by any means! After 2 kids (which is no excuse), I am stuck at a size 6-8, 5'3 & 133lbs with a lot of muscle, do martial arts, workout alot, and I am considered chunky!
I can't believe that people still find it socially acceptable to express their dislike openly from someone different then them. How much a person way should have nothing to do with their acting ability. The writer at Marie Clarie should get a life!
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This is no different than ignorant and angry views on Mexican, Blacks, Gays, and even going into simple freedoms such as the way people dress and religion. Those old demons of the Nazi brigade are stronger than ever. Everyone in this country is free and equal. This crap with the bullying others into a single frame of mind and way of being is evil. That is why our country is suppose to be free. That is why we are fighting bullies in schools. That is why black people vote and live next door. That is why we helped free the jews in world war 2. That is why mentally disabled people are functioning members of society. That is why womens health care is expanding. That is why our babies are being saved. That is why we have foster homes for children. That is why women can vote and work and wear pants! That is why we help others in natural disasters. That is why we are looking for a cure for breast cancer and aids. Listen, the list goes on. If you have been touched by any issue where people have had respect and compassion for you or a loved one and are grateful for it. If you have ever stood up to fight for your beliefs or even for someone else. Then WHAT the hell is the problem here with "fat people". Don't walk around with that demon hanging out of your a**!
Anyone who shows great disgust for overweight people obviously does not know how and why the problem happens. They are ignorant, to say the least, not to mention discriminatory if they are saying overweight people can not be a part of society or entertainment in society. Intimacy scenes might be difficult for some but that is because most have been brainwashed by the media who exploit women s...xually, not to mention push the thin image to the point of unrealistic terms. A great majority of men and women are overweight. In fact the show Roseanne probably did well years back because the couple were overweight. On the flip side, I can't stand those cooking shows where the woman is stick thin (there are a couple of them). Instead of thinking of the delicious dish they are trying to prepare, I keep thinking about dieting because the cook is so thin!
there is something wrong with being size 32 or the male equivalent - it is not healthy you will get diseases and die before your time - my taxes have to go up to pay medicare for fatties diabetics heart attaks Hover-rounds for fatties - it is wrong for a human to weigh as much as a gorilla
I think this is a total publicity piece used as a tool to get a reaction from people and to increase viewership of the show Mike & Molly or Molly & Mike – whatever. How many of you plan to watch the show now after seeing these blogs? Worked didn't it?
Fat bashing is ok with me! I think part of the obesity problem today is that we accept obesity more than in the past. The fat kid at school doesn't get teased anymore. Maybe they should. Maybe rather than saying "It's ok to be fat" we should get cruel and mean about it if we HAVE to. Being accepting of it is getting us nowhere. Maybe doing a 180 and returning to an older time is the way to go. And this isn't a looks issue to me, this is a health issue. Obesity costs our society in general probably billions of dollars a year. Billions that could be better spent on actual diseases that people have no (or little) control over – unlike being morbidly obese; all the diseases and health issues with that can be solved by just shutting your mouth and keeping the food out of it.
A person who is overweight may or may not have a self-image problem just as a person who is obsessive about maintaining a slim figure obviously does. If they're comfortable with it, the only other consideration is their health, which I'm sure most Americans would agree is a personal matter and not a topic for discussion. Invective-laced preaching toward overweight individuals says more about the mental state of the antagonist than it does about the target of their displeasure.
Ultimately, art – including television – is about presenting a snapshot of humanity in such a way that the audience is able to relate to it and thereby assimilate what they've experienced into their own thought processes. The more we are able to relate to others despite our differences, the less likely we are to buy into negative stereotypes which only serve to distance our opinions from reality.
I love the show. I hate the writer at Marie Claire's article - so closed-minded. I can't believe magazine editors there let that one slip through. As for the show, I think it's funny and the characters are lovable.
My question to everyone is, Why can't people just realize that it is a funny show (Mike and Molly) and take it for that? I love show. I thought the pilot episode was phenomenal!! Size doesn't matter when it comes to a comedy. Look at all the greats, John Candy, Johny Buloshy. If you don't think it is funny then don't watch the show. If you are disgusted then dont watch the show. Dont ban it just because you dont like it. I never thought Seinfield was that funny and look at that show.
Karma is a funny thing...I wouldn't be surprised to read at a later time the fat-bashing woman with the scissor mouth may find herself being fat. I am a middle-aged woman who have been overweight all my life. I find it refreshing that larger people are landing roles in TV and movies. Majority of the so called 'stars' looks are very similar and smurf-like.
Doctors are starting to discover that there are some people on earth that are born to be bigger. With the vast array of languages, color of skin, hair, eyes, or height ranges - why not have weight varients as well. We all are different, but dammit we all are suppose to be thin?! For some of us 'thin' will always be an illusion. I could lose a 100lbs right now, but I would never be considered either thin nor tiny. That concept of 'thin' is untainable for some.
One of the biggest differences in an obese person, a drunk, and a heroin addict in the same room together would be that people wouldn't be afraid to give the drunk or addict a hug. People are AFRAID to touch a fat person. I've just lost 70lbs.. and I certainly am experiencing the difference. It is PATHETIC...people's bias & bigotry...when we should all be helping and loving each other.
Movies and television art art. Art is ment to inspire certain emotions in us. Watching over weight people being intimate will probably not evoke the same feelings as watchin "beautiful people", and that's Ok. If its not your cup of tea DON’T WATCH.
BTW....shoving food in your mouth and sitting on your butt....is not a disiese...its a lifestyle. We dont celebrate smoking...drug use...why should we catorgorize people that clean out buffets and ice-cream buckets as "sick"...
Most powerful word in our vocabulary..."choice"
I am an average american women. 5'6 and a size 8. I absolutely love the show Mike and Molly. It is disgusting to me that someone can be judgemental and vain. To me this show is a breath of fresh air and I love the characters chemistry. While I may be naive I do not think their weight is a focal point of the show. Yes – the jokes are there and that's how they met. But it's about 2 people struggling with their weight and the nuances of dating. It is something a lot of people – including myself – can relate to. I hope this show stays on the air for the long run! I already have it DVRed.
If you don't look like the actors on TV shows (normal ones, not the fatties), you probably are overweight, just not obese. What people in this country see as "normal" weight IS considered obese in most other countries. It boils down to greed, food greed, consuming way more than your body needs. A family of 4 in Sudan could live a week on what some of you heifer’s shove into your pie hole each day. Walking burdens on the US healthcare system....
Biggest Loser, in many respects, should be a wake-up call. Obesity is a major health hazard in modern society. Granted there are medical conditions and medications that can cause excessive weight... but for every individual with such a scenario there are plenty who simply let themselves go, and countless more who won't admit to it (just look at the blame game on Biggest Loser for an example). I realize how difficult weight loss can be, its not as simple as just eating healthy... it is healthy eating, exercise, sleep... basically a lifestyle change that not everyone is willing to undergo.
As society gets bigger, we will continue to have larger actors and actresses portraying our current "average" appearances. There was a time when John Candy seemed larger then life, now some would say he was on the slim side. As to intimacy, to each their own, personally I wouldn't want to see the bedside manner but that's just me. I feel for overweight people, but I can't have sympathy if an individual doesn't want to put the effort into trying to become healthy.
Why is it in the entertainment business we can watch,see or hear heavier set people do jokes about themselves and provide entertainment for others by putting themselves down and we accept that and enjoy it. Comedians like Robin Williams, Rosie O'Donnell, Rosanne..etc are good comedians but they also faced critisim's for their weight issues. Not everyone is a size 5 in this world. It shouldn't matter whether you want to see two overweight people get it on, you should want to watch the show because of the entertainment they are providing. I loved the show and will continue to watch it. Why should we be subjected all the time to the upcoming Baywatch babes on TV when we can actually see a good program. I watch the Big Bang Theory obviously not for the attractive men in the program but because it makes me laugh. Who cares what they look like, I am looking for a varily good show to watch. If people object to the weight issues then change the channel. I do when I come across 90210. Writing an article about it only gives the show more publicity....so write on!
I have to tell you I love the show very much. Good writers–I had gastric-by-surg and lost well over 100 pounds and being a former fattie yes it is very hard to watch these people kiss, run like they did in one episode . I thought a cop could not be that overweight–what gives. On the show the mother and sister have got to go they add nothing but annoyance . What I dont get with all the help out there why dont you fatties get help NOW.
I see that narcisistic behavior is in rare form...can't folks just please remember that no matter the body composition we are still ALL people. Funny Story, I had a boss that thought the same way about fat folks, at the time I was what he considered fat. He was forever with the "I hate fat people"