In a candid conversation on the "On Purpose with Jay Shetty" podcast, aired on March 24, 2025, acclaimed singer and actress Selena Gomez opened up about the emotional toll of persistent body-shaming comments directed at her on social media platforms. Gomez, who has been in the public eye since her teenage years, discussed the intensified scrutiny women, especially public figures, face regarding their physical appearance.
Gomez, aged 32, shared that despite her efforts to avoid online negativity, she occasionally encounters hurtful remarks about her body. She highlighted the double standards prevalent in societal perceptions, noting, "Nobody cares about these kinds of things with men." This observation underscores the disproportionate emphasis placed on women's appearances compared to their male counterparts. She further elaborated on the challenges of preparing for public events, expressing that her primary concern often becomes enduring public judgment rather than enjoying the occasion.
The "Emilia Pérez" star also addressed the specific criticisms she has faced regarding her weight fluctuations, which are influenced by her ongoing battle with lupus, an autoimmune disease she was diagnosed with in 2013. Gomez explained that the medication regimen required to manage her condition contributes to changes in her body weight. She candidly admitted that the relentless commentary has left her feeling "a tad bitter," a sentiment she expressed with a sense of guilt but emphasized as her genuine reaction.
Despite these challenges, Gomez acknowledged the influential power of social media but described its navigation as "tricky." She emphasized the importance of taking breaks from these platforms to safeguard her mental health, recognizing the necessity of stepping back to maintain her well-being.
In the wake of the podcast release, Gomez's former partner, actor Taylor Lautner, publicly defended her against the body-shaming remarks. Lautner, 33, took to Instagram to highlight the unfair criticisms Gomez has endured, urging the public to exercise kindness and empathy. He emphasized that an individual's worth should not be determined by physical appearance and called for a more compassionate discourse surrounding body image.
Gomez's openness sheds light on the broader issue of body image pressures faced by women in the entertainment industry and society at large. Her experiences underscore the need for a cultural shift towards embracing body positivity and fostering an environment where individuals are valued beyond their physical attributes.