Singer-songwriter and actress Ariana Grande posted a TikTok to address the recent internet commentary about her weight. Fans of Grande took to social media to comment on her changing body image. Grande decided to address the growing rumors of an eating disorder.
The talented star is currently working on the film adaptation of the long-running Broadway musical “Wicked”, where she plays Glinda Upland. She recently took a break from rehearsals to record a “Die For You” remix with the Weeknd. Paparazzi images of Grande and her own social media posts had viewers quickly making assumptions about her health.
In the three-minute video, Grande encouraged empathy on social media. She additionally went into detail on the importance of body neutrality in the media. Grande told viewers to “be gentle with each other, and with yourselves.”
@arianagrande ♡
Grande’s response is receiving praise across social media, and sparking important conversations in the process. In the past few years, several celebrities, including Selena Gomez, have called out body-shaming, notably when celebrities have gained weight. Grande’s case is reminding the internet to be respectful of health changes for everyone, regardless of size, and to stay neutral on the topic of body image.
she shouldn't of even had to do this. be better. please. #weloveyouariana pic.twitter.com/enQzYPrkTN
— tay (@envystheleaves) April 11, 2023
The Bigger Conversation
Grande also cited her antidepressants and other lifestyle habits that led to her fluctuating weight, explaining that health is not linear.
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“The body that you’ve been comparing my current body to was the unhealthiest version of my body. I was on a lot of antidepressants, drinking on them, eating poorly, and at the lowest point of my life when I looked the way you consider ‘my healthy’.”
— Ariana Grande pic.twitter.com/DCSwevWXKW
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) April 11, 2023
Some Twitter users are pointing out how similar comments seldom affect male musicians. Women actresses and musicians frequently find themselves at the scrutiny of the male gaze when it comes to body image. Grande’s video, which has now amassed over 2 million views on TikTok, is bringing this stark reality to the forefront.
mind you this would never happen if they were male artists
— ???????????????????? (@hinarimey) April 11, 2023
Meanwhile, others pointed out that while body neutrality is a necessary change in popular media, celebrities should not be forced to publicly address their insecurities in order to be relatable.
we need to apologise to ariana grande and selena gomez for making feel forced into explaining their insecurities pic.twitter.com/0NXxEd3ZLB
— Ron???? (@midnightstrack2) April 11, 2023
defending ariana grande on the internet isn’t enough i need a tank pic.twitter.com/dolF5Z9Iea
— zoe ❦ (@zxebella) April 11, 2023
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Grande has not commented further on the allegations about her marriage and health. “Wicked” is currently set for a 2024 release, and filming remains in progress.
