Gutfeld mocks Washington Post on return of fat jokes and self-deprecation
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Summary
The segment opens with Greg Gutfeld's leftovers comedy bits on unrelated topics before turning to a Washington Post article claiming fat phobia is returning via self-deprecating social media trends. Gutfeld argues the premise is idiotic, noting prominent overweight celebrities in the early 2000s and rejecting the term 'phobic.' Panelists including Tom Shillue, Jamie, Sherrod Small, and Tyrus discuss past fat jokes, body positivity marketing, doctors' advice, and how Ozempic has shifted attitudes. They contrast magazine covers promoting larger bodies with celebrities now using weight-loss drugs.
Editorial Assessment
The broadcast correctly identifies the WaPo article's focus on TikTok trends like 'fat Sunday' and self-deprecation but offers no data to counter the anecdotal examples cited there. It supplies valid cultural counterpoints from the 2000s and notes real-world uptake of GLP-1 drugs, yet omits broader health statistics on obesity or evidence of rising fat-shaming incidents. Framing emphasizes media and activist overreach while downplaying potential stigma effects; the comedy format prioritizes punchlines over balanced sourcing. Viewers miss longitudinal surveys on body image attitudes or medical consensus on weight-related health risks.
Key Moments
Washington Post claims fat phobia is making a comeback with jokes and self-deprecation
July 22, 2026 WaPo Style article discusses 'big back,' 'fat Sunday,' fat suits on TikTok and questions if self-deprecating humor signals rising fatphobia
Early 2000s featured many prominent fat celebrities with no phobia
John Goodman, Jack Black, Rosie O'Donnell, Drew Carey, and Al Roker were major TV/film stars during that era
WaPo article offers only anecdotes, no data
Article centers on social media examples and quotes; no quantitative studies presented in available excerpts
Ozempic and similar drugs are replacing body positivity as people lose weight
Widespread reporting confirms rapid adoption of GLP-1 agonists and corresponding shifts in public attitudes and celebrity transformations
Notable Concerns
- Relies primarily on opinion and selective celebrity examples without polling or health data