The 2025 awards season red carpets saw a noticeable trend: many celebrities, including Demi Moore, Nicole Kidman, and Mindy Kaling, appeared visibly slimmer. This has sparked discussions about evolving beauty standards and the role of weight-loss medications in Hollywood.
While some attribute this trend to popular weight-loss drugs, experts suggest a confluence of factors, including social media influence, evolving aesthetic ideals, and advancements in cosmetic procedures. Dr. Jason Emer, a Beverly Hills cosmetic dermatologist, points to the combined impact of these elements. He acknowledges the role of weight loss medications but also emphasizes the influence of social media and changing perceptions of beauty.
This shift comes after a period of increased body positivity in the mid-2010s, championed by figures like Kaling herself. Her 2020 Instagram post encouraged bikini confidence regardless of size, reflecting a broader movement towards body acceptance.
However, Dr. David Amron of The Roxbury Institute expresses concern about a potential return to unhealthy thinness, driven by social media's unrealistic portrayals. He warns against extreme weight-loss methods pursued without medical supervision.
The increasing use of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, primarily designed for diabetes management, has coincided with this trend. Although Wegovy is FDA-approved for obesity, other similar drugs are often prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Kaling, for instance, attributed her weight loss to lifestyle changes rather than medication. However, numerous other celebrities, including Kathy Bates and Oprah Winfrey, have openly discussed using these medications. Bates emphasized that while Ozempic played a role, her transformation was primarily due to years of diet and exercise.
Dr. Michael Aziz, an anti-aging expert, observes that the stigma surrounding these drugs is fading as more people embrace them. However, some, like Sharon Osbourne, have cautioned against their use after experiencing side effects.
Conversely, Winfrey views these medications as a positive development, offering relief and a sense of empowerment in managing weight. She believes they address a medical condition rather than a personal failing.
