On March 28, former “Prison Break” star Wentworth Miller took to social media in order to slam an online meme that criticized his weight gain after his run on the hit television show ended. His message to his haters quickly spread, causing the story to become a hot topic in the news. However, Miller’s message only reignited seemingly never-ending discussions about body image, especially when it comes to celebrities.
When I first heard these news stories about the popular actor, it became infuriating to realize that a story like this even had to exist. I praise Wentworth Miller for courageously standing up for himself when it comes to the change in his weight, but it is frustrating to know that someone out there had taken the time to create an image intended to negatively poke fun at another human being.
The real question is: why should everyone be so concerned with body weight? In the high fashion world, designers require certain measurements from their models. While some models are criticized through the media for being dangerously thin, there are others who are criticized for the opposite reason. Photoshop only helps to fuel the fire by editing the human body and giving people unrealistic expectations of how men and women should look in order to be considered attractive.
Even in movies and television today, actresses are expected to be lean and thin in most productions while men are expected to be muscular and tall. Beauty standards are set through the media, and, as controversial as it is, many people learn to accept these standards as a social norm. If they notice someone in the media with hips too wide or someone who lacks abs then cannot help but comment.
While there may be body positive campaigns from big name brands such as Dove, movies and television have yet to change when it comes to body image. Specific actors and actresses continue to be cast because of their weight or the way they look. Unfortunately, even those who speak out about body positivity still hesitate about discussing weight when it comes to movies.
On certain occasions, the weight of an actor or actress will fluctuate in order to take on a specific character. The action movie genre is infamous for high standards when it comes to body types. Countless time is devoted to strenuous exercise and strict diets when actor and actresses commit to major blockbuster action movies.
Body image in the media influences our perspectives of how people should look in real life. We must learn to avoid judgment and accept the idea that everyone’s body is different. Embrace the thought that unique is beautiful, and if everyone looked the same then the world would be boring. Although it is easier said than done, the industry needs to take stronger action and change stereotypical body images in the media.
Wentworth Miller’s post on social media gave a strong voice to the idea that people should not be concerned with the weight of others. Body shaming only adds to the lack of self-esteem felt by many who feel either overweight or underweight. While the media needs to change its perspective on body image, media consumers also need to refrain from the harsh comments about appearance.
Spreading posts such as the meme of Wentworth Miller not only harm the individual in the image but also anyone who decides to view and share that image amongst social media platforms. Let us all do ourselves a favor and look for the beauty in each other so that we can all embrace what we have.
