Rebel without a plussize cause; faces backlash
Actor Rebel Wilson is facing flak on social media after claiming to be the first ever plus-size female star of a romantic comedy film. The Pitch Perfect star, who recently discussed her upcoming film Isn’t It Romantic on a talk show, said, “I’m kind of proud to be the first-ever plus-size girl to be the star of a romantic comedy.” In the interview, Wilson also talked about her role and how it has shattered Hollywood stereotypes.
However, her claim has sparked a debate on social media, with people pointing out that stars such as Queen Latifah, Mo’Nique and Ricki Lake were some of the first few to appear as plus-size female movie leads. Movie buffs even took to Twitter to cite several examples to prove their point.
One user, tagging Wilson, tweeted: “You’re not the first though, @RebelWilson. Mo’nique, Queen Latifah, Melissa McCarthy, Kathy Bates, Gabby Sidibe, Octavia Spencer, and so many more have done it way before any of us knew who you were.”
Another tweeted: “Rebel Wilson saying she’s the first plus sized girl in a rom-com like this iconic gem doesn’t exist,” referencing Queen Latifah’s The Last Holiday alongside the film poster.
“I love @RebelWilson as much as the next girl, but she isn’t the first plus sized woman to play the lead in a romantic comedy. Queen Latifah and Mo’Nique have both played romcom leads,” said another.
Responding to a user, Wilson posted: “Hey girl! Yeah I of course know of these movies but it was questionable as to whether: 1. Technically those actresses were plus size when filming those movies or 2. Technically those films are categorized/billed as a studio rom-com with a sole lead. So there’s a slight grey area.”
She added: “I fully take all the comments onboard though so thank you.” Wilson plays the female lead in Isn’t It Romantic, which also stars Priyanka Chopra.