In an age where gluttony is spun as “self love” and obesity billed as a “healthy” alternative to being fit, it comes as no surprise that Marlo Thomas irked Gen Z while commenting on television personality Sherri Shepherd’s weight.
Thomas, who starred in “That Girl,” appeared on Shepherd’s talk show, “Sherri,” and complimented her on losing weight.
“Look how beautiful you are, you’ve lost a lot of weight,” Thomas said, motioning toward the host, who replied, “I did — like 35 pounds. I’m trying. I’m trying so hard.”
“I interviewed you for my AOL show… and you were a big woman!” Thomas recalled.
The remark prompted laughter from Shepherd, who got up and walked over to hug Thomas, who was also laughing while using her hands to suggest a plump body.
“But you’ve still got the boobies! That’s good,” she added, pointing to Shepherd’s ample bosom.
The exchange took place around the 8-minute mark in the video below:
All good, right?
Not so fast.
Page Six reported that “Sherri” staffers failed to find the humor in the exchange and were sent into “mama bear mode.”
The show staff reportedly felt like she “fat shamed” Shepherd on her own show.
“Sherri was a good sport, but people [at the show] are very protective of her,” an inside source told Page Six, adding, “People were not happy that she fat shamed her on national TV. It was a like a slap in the face.”
These critics were said to have been “very vocal” about their displeasure. A sentiment that was seen in some of the commentaries online — here’s a quick sampling of responses to the story from Twitter:
I’ve enjoyed some of Marlo’s work on TV, but this wasn’t ok. It was rude & since Marlo has often spoken about empowerment – “Free to Be You & Me,” etc. – it’s contrary to what she usually preaches.
— Garden State Gal (@GraceSP811) November 1, 2022
You’re invited on a talk show and your go-to bit is to make fun of the host’s body? That’s gross.
— ˖˚˳⌖ ( )ॢ* ੈ ♡‧₊ ˚ (@yrlilpony) November 1, 2022
@MarloThomas Ms. Thomas, why did you feel the need to do an impression of “heavy Sherri Shepherd”? It was uncomfortable to watch. I had so much respect for you. How many of St. Jude’s donors were offended? You are too intelligent and inherently good to have done that. Shameful!
— Bill Strippoli (@WStrippoli) November 2, 2022
@MarloThomas just acted like those elders in the Black church. Just saying stuff that would offend if she were your peer, but you roll with it ’cause she’s an elder! You can say whatever you want after 84 trips around the sun. @sherrishowtv
— BronxRobb (@BronxRobb) November 1, 2022
Wow #MarloThomas how rude of u to insult #Sherry. How would u feel if she said you used to look better before injecting plastic into your face
— Darlene (@Darlenemarie222) November 2, 2022
@MarloThomas Please apologize to @sherrieshepherd for the weight comments. We all know you’re a kind person, but that was disappointing and hurtful.
— Love It Or Lead It (@loveitorleadit) November 2, 2022
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