Lizzo shuts down troll who said she's popular because of 'obesity epidemic in America' leading to debate on celeb weight
There was a very interesting tweet put out by author, economist, political analyst and social commentator Dr. Boyce Watkins on Monday, December 23. He likened singer-songwriter and rapper Lizzo's popularity to the obesity problem in America.
"#Lizzo popular is because there is an obesity epidemic in America. Rather than encouraging people to do better, we are simply lying to them and telling them that they are just fine the way they are. Unfortunately, many of these people are dying from diabetes and heart disease," he wrote on Twitter.
Lizzo did not waste any time in responding to Watkins. "I'm popular because I write good songs and I'm talented and perform high energy hour and a half shows filled with love," she wrote on Twitter.
"The only person who needs to do better is you. Keep my name out ya mouth and look in the mirror before you come for me," she continued and with a "Here's the attention you ordered," Lizzo dropped the mic.
Fans immediately poured in support for the singer. "Lizzo is popular because she is free. Free being herself in her own skin. No matter what anyone thinks or says; she continues to live her life. She is confident and bold whereas others hide and falsify themselves to be something else. Flawless beauty inside and out," wrote one fan.
Others pointed out the logistics of the issue. "If you want to speak obesity fine. That's a conversation regarding corporate greed, education & nutritional deficiency. And one that doesn't have to criticize or focus on Lizzo or any other person. I think you've lost me with this obsession. Bless."
A large part of this debate also has to do with women unwilling to give men's opinion space in their mind. "Honestly tired of hearing men's opinions on women and girls," a fan wrote.
"Never-ending onslaught of opinions on our bodies, our appearances, our actions, and on the violence against us. I don’t care what letters are in front of your name, learn when to mind your business or how to listen," the fan added, attaching a controversial opinion shared by Dr. Boyce Watkins about the Me Too Movement.
Lizzo's fans, meanwhile, were divided over the issue debating over the bias shown towards other plus size musicians who are men. "Fascinating how I never see tweets like these about DJ Khaled," pointed out a fan.
Many jumped to correct the original tweet saying there are jokes about DJ Khaled and Rick Ross' weight as well.
"Definitely saw Khaled jokes on my timeline for about a month straight. Ross gets jokes too. Tf y'all talkin bout?" It almost seemed like the debate invited people to shame Lizzo further bringing up the Laker's game and her outfit for the match.
"DJ Khaled doesn't wear a shirt with the ass cut out to a lakers game, and he’s sorta actually talented," said one. "Do you see him at the Lakers game with a thong cut-out shirt or shaking his bear ass in Wendy’s?????????" said another.
The debate of how male and female celebrities are at two different receiving ends was at the center of the issue.
"Khaled never made his weight the center of his career, she does. I'm not agreeing with that, but he never said anything about his body being positive, in fact, he worked hard to lose some and that's the first time he ever addressed his weight so that's why I think," said a fan.