Tess Holliday’s Empowering Response to a Body-Shaming Critic
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In a recent TikTok video, Tess Holliday, the renowned 39-year-old model and body activist, gracefully shut down a critic who suggested she should take Ozempic for weight loss. Ozempic, also known as semaglutide or Wegovy, is an FDA-approved prescription drug primarily used for people with type 2 diabetes, known for its effects on satiety in the brain and its rising popularity for weight management in Hollywood and beyond.
The critic commented, “Just take the Ozempic, nobody will judge,” to which Holliday responded with poise, highlighting the harsh reality faced by plus-size individuals like herself. She expressed, “The funny thing is, you would judge. It’s kind of like when you are plus size and not palatable, you’re kind of screwed either way.” Holliday emphasized the double standards and societal pressures placed on individuals based on their size, lamenting, “You’re damned if you do, damned if you don’t.”

Despite her strong stance against body-shamers, Holliday admitted that the constant barrage of negative comments can take a toll on her mental health. In a previous TikTok video addressing the “fatphobic” messages she receives, she candidly shared the impact of such harmful rhetoric, stating, “One thing I’m learning on this extremely fatphobic app is the minute you mess up, you can count on everyone to tell you how fat you are and that you should die. It’s great.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by many in the face of societal biases, Holliday urged for empathy and understanding, emphasizing that everyone is trying their best and that mistakes should not be met with vitriol and cruel judgment. She underscored the importance of supporting one another and fostering a more compassionate online community that uplifts rather than tears down.

Throughout her career, Holliday has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and self-love, using her platform to challenge beauty standards and promote inclusivity. Despite the hurtful comments she receives, she continues to inspire many with her resilience and unwavering commitment to promoting acceptance and self-confidence regardless of size or appearance.
In response to her critics and in a show of solidarity, Holliday’s followers rallied behind her, echoing her sentiments of empowerment and self-acceptance. As she navigates the challenges of online scrutiny and negative feedback, Holliday remains a beacon of strength and positivity, reminding others to stay true to themselves and to embrace their uniqueness unapologetically.
In a world where societal norms often dictate beauty standards, Tess Holliday’s unwavering resilience in the face of adversity serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love and acceptance. Her ability to confront body-shamers with grace and eloquence reflects her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. As she continues to inspire and uplift others, Holliday’s empowering response to criticism stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to authenticity and self-empowerment.
