Chrissy Metz of “This is Us” was told to lose weight for the show but here’s why it’s okay
The character Kate on NBC’s This Is Us struggles with weight; Chrissy Metz, the actress who plays her, does too. Kate is actively trying to lose weight on the show. In an interview with TV Line, Metz says that NBC asked her to sign a contract promising that she would lose the weight required to follow the storyline.
“That was a win-win for me,” Chrissy Metz says. “Because it’s one thing to try to do it on your own. But as human beings, it’s an ego thing: We’re more likely to do something for someone else.” Kate’s journey is “parallel to my life,” the actress continued.
We’ve seen Kate overcome her perceived failures in life (not landing the husband and family of which she always dreamed), and deciding to make some major changes. We’ve seen her join weight-loss group and meet a guy named Toby.
And we’re watching her navigate the ups and downs of relationships and health goals.
However, Metz is excited for the Kate’s storyline to begin focusing on other topics. “I, as Chrissy, want to do things that mentally, emotionally and physically make me the best that I can be.”
She’s conscious that some viewers may see her contractual obligation to lose weight as a negative.
She’s quick to point out that it was a very personal decision that ought not be judged.
“Whether or not I lose weight or stay the same, it’s purely a choice of mine for health. Not because I think that plus size, curvy, voluptuous, big bodies aren’t attractive — because I think they’re awesome and sexy.”
Tonight, you'll find Kate displays model behavior 😏 #ThisIsUs 9/8c on NBC🚨 pic.twitter.com/JVTKOxhdr8
— Chrissy Metz (@ChrissyMetz) October 18, 2016
Right on.
