It’s unfortunate to hear that Lizzo had to react to such a situation. It’s important for media to be mindful of the impact their portrayals can have on individuals, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like weight and body image. How did she respond in her video?
“My worst fear has been actualized: I’ve been referenced in a ‘South Park’ episode,” she jokingly told her audience. “I’m so scared. I’m going to blind duet to it right now.”
In a recent “South Park” special titled “The End of Obesity,” the show tackled the topic of weight loss drugs and the American healthcare system. In the episode, the character Eric Cartman is prescribed a weight loss drug called “Lizzo” by his doctor.
Lizzo herself reacted to this portrayal on social media, expressing her thoughts on the use of her name in this context.
“She’s a really good singer who talks about body positivity and just being happy with the way you look,” the doctor explains.
“I want you to listen to Lizzo five times a day and watch her videos just before bedtime. Oh, and I’m afraid you’ll have to be on Lizzo for the rest of your life.”
The “South Park” episode also included a commercial for the fictional weight loss drug “Lizzo,” which was presented as an alternative for those unable to afford other medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro.
The commercial claimed that 70% of patients no longer cared about their weight after taking the drug.
“Lizzo helps you eat everything you want and keep physical activity to a minimum,” the voiceover added. “Some patients report constipation while listening to Lizzo … Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, hypothermia and literally s——- out your ears.”
Lizzo shared her reaction to the clip at the end of the video, describing the moment as “crazy.” It’s understandable that she would find it unsettling to see her name used in such a context.
“I’m really that b—-,” she said. “I really showed the world how to love yourself and not give a f— to the point where these men in Colorado know who the f— I am and put it on their cartoon that’s been around for 25 years.”
She reiterated her first point before adding,
“I show y’all how to not give a f— and I’m going to keep on showing you hot to not give a f—.”
Lizzo has indeed been an advocate for body positivity throughout her career, but she has also faced criticism and body-shaming comments.
In recent years, she has expressed a shift in her views towards the body positivity movement, mentioning to The New York Times in March that it has evolved into what she describes as “body neutrality,” moving away from its original conception.
“I’m not going to lie and say I love my body every day,” she said. “The bottom line is, the way you feel about your body changes every single day. There are some days I adore my body, and others when I don’t feel completely positive.”
