“Survival of the Thickest” Star Michelle Buteau Says Professor Once Told Her She Was ‘Too Fat to Be on Camera’ (Exclusive)

**Michelle Buteau Reflects on Challenges and Triumphs Ahead of Final Season of ‘Survival of the Thickest’**

Michelle Buteau has emerged as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, renowned for her work as both the creator and star of the Netflix series ‘Survival of the Thickest.’ As the show gears up for its third and final season, Buteau opened up about her journey, the obstacles she faced, and the profound messages embedded in her work.

The 48-year-old actress recently spoke to PEOPLE, revealing that her path to success was fraught with doubt and criticism from various quarters, including academia. One particular instance stood out in her memory: a college professor who dismissed her potential by stating that she was “too fat to be on camera.” Such comments could have deterred many, but Buteau’s determination only intensified.

Reflecting on her earlier aspirations, Buteau recalled sharing her childhood dreams with her mother. “When I told my mum that I wanted to be in a pageant or pursue acting, she simply said, ‘That’s not a real job,’” she said. However, with time, her mother’s sentiments have shifted. “Now she’s like, ‘Oh man, I should have invested,’” Buteau shared, highlighting a common parental theme of skepticism towards unconventional career paths.

Buteau’s experiences extend far beyond personal family interactions, touching on broader societal issues. She expressed frustration at the societal norms that contribute to an environment where individuals face constant judgement regarding their appearance and professional ambitions. “It’s not just the industry; it’s embedded within society and culture,” she stated. Her conviction is clear: the necessity for diversity in media isn’t merely a trend; it’s a vital aspect of representation that affects people’s ability to envision their own potential.

The premise of ‘Survival of the Thickest’ centres on Buteau’s character, Mavis, a Black plus-size stylist and designer, who navigates the complexities of life and work with a body-positive attitude and a supportive community. The show, which draws inspiration from Buteau’s own memoir, first launched in 2023 and has quickly resonated with audiences. As Mavis, Buteau imbues her character with resilience and humour, demonstrating a commitment to showcasing varied representations on screen.

In the upcoming season, viewers can anticipate special appearances from comedic heavyweights such as Wanda Sykes and D.L. Hughley, alongside other guest stars. The series has not only established itself as a staple of inclusive storytelling but has also provided a platform for Buteau to step into new roles, notably that of director.

Describing her directorial debut, Buteau stated, “I thought, this is the safest space I’m ever going to do it in.” The experience was fulfilling for her, as she collaborated with a team that she felt supported her vision. “We created some really important television, and the episode was very near and dear to my heart,” she added, highlighting a sense of camaraderie in the creative process.

Beyond her current project, Michelle Buteau is actively engaging with fans through her ‘Surviving and Thriving’ comedy tour, which includes stops in major cities across Europe and America. The tour continues to showcase her ability to connect with audiences and deliver relatable humour rooted in her life experiences.

As ‘Survival of the Thickest’ is set to premiere its final season on 2 July on Netflix, it is clear that Michelle Buteau’s journey from doubt to success is a testament to resilience. She encourages others to embrace their dreams and offers a voice to those who may feel marginalised—making her work not just entertainment but also a significant cultural commentary.

In a landscape where representation still faces challenges, Buteau’s contributions are a reminder of the power of visibility and the importance of pursuing one’s aspirations, regardless of societal pressures.