Betty White’s Backhanded Compliments: Sally Struthers Recounts ‘Fat-Shaming’ Experiences

When it comes to the late, great Betty White, the consensus is that she was an extraordinary comedian and actress with a warm personality and a wicked sense of humor. However, recent revelations from Sally Struthers, her former co-star on The Golden Girls, have shed light on a more complex and potentially problematic side of White’s legacy.

Struthers’ Account of ‘Fat-Shaming’

In a recent interview, Struthers recounted several instances where White made “fat-shaming” jokes at her expense. “I was only a size 8, but Betty would always say, ‘Oh, look at you, Sally, you’re so big!’ or ‘You’re eating like a pig,'” Struthers shared. “It was something that I always thought was just her way of joking around, but it did hurt my feelings.”

White’s Intentions: Humor or Body Shaming?

It is unclear whether White intended to body shame Struthers. Some dismiss her comments as harmless banter, while others find them both insensitive and indicative of a deeper-seated prejudice against overweight individuals.

Dr. Jennifer Hartstein, a psychologist specializing in body image, explains: “Jokes about weight, even if intended as humor, can have a negative impact on the person receiving them. They can reinforce negative body perceptions and lead to feelings of shame and self-consciousness.”

The Prevalence of Body Shaming in the Entertainment Industry

Struthers’ experience is not an isolated incident. Body shaming is a pervasive problem in the entertainment industry, where actors and actresses are constantly scrutinized for their appearances.

According to a survey by the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), over 50% of actors and actresses report being pressured to change their body size or shape. This pressure can lead to a host of negative consequences, including eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.

The Importance of Respect and Inclusivity

Regardless of White’s intentions, it is clear that her jokes about Struthers’ weight were inappropriate and hurtful. It is essential to remember that body shaming is never acceptable, even if it is disguised as humor.

The entertainment industry, and society as a whole, needs to embrace a more inclusive and respectful attitude towards people of all shapes and sizes. Actors and actresses should be celebrated for their talent and creativity, not their physical appearance.

Conclusion

Betty White’s legacy is undoubtedly complex. She was a talented performer and a beloved figure in American pop culture. However, her recent revelations about her treatment of Sally Struthers raise important questions about the prevalence of body shaming and the importance of respect and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.

As we reflect on White’s life and career, it is crucial to acknowledge both her accomplishments and the ways in which her actions may have inadvertently contributed to a culture of body negativity. By learning from the past, we can work towards creating a more positive and respectful environment for actors and actresses of all shapes and sizes.