Kate Winslet Was Deemed the “Wrong Shape” by Hollywood, but Her RECENT Response to That Is Incredibly Bold
Kate Winslet has always been an advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance. She has often spoken out against the unrealistic beauty standards that the entertainment industry can impose on actresses. Recently, the Academy Award-winner hinted at a meaningful action she took in response to her past experiences with body shaming. This revelation coincides with her involvement in the forthcoming biopic Lee, where she takes on the roles of executive producer and lead actress.
The star revealed that she endured constant criticism for her curvier physique when she first entered the industry. In fact, she was advised to lower her career aspirations when questioned about her weight prior to auditions.
Winslet expressed, “I was consistently told I was the wrong shape, I was consistently told I would have to settle for less.” Despite having once considered herself the “fat kid at the back with the wrong shoes on” Winslet found empowerment in a bold decision. She decided to boldly recreate a topless photograph of the renowned photographer Lee Miller, whom she portrays in the film.
The actress emphasized her courageous choice, stating, “You know I had to be really brave about letting my body be its softest version of itself and not hiding from that.” She recounted how even members of her own team suggested she make adjustments, to which she defiantly responded, “Why? [Because of] the bit of flesh you can see? No, that’s the way it’s going to be!”
Winslet continued, “I know better than to waste precious energy on criticizing my physical self. I think any woman is better off just saying: I believe in myself. It doesn’t matter what other people think; this is who I am — let’s get on with it.”
Winslet also recalled enduring body shaming from the media, particularly after her breakthrough role in Titanic. “I think it probably stems from having been subjected to the most awful scrutiny and judgment from mainstream media when I was in my 20s,” Winslet shared.
In December 2022, she had candidly addressed the body shaming she faced following her role in the 1997 James Cameron epic. “Apparently I was too fat,” remarked regarding the long-standing debate over why Leonardo DiCaprio’s character couldn’t fit on the raft at the end of the film. “Why were they so mean to me? They were so mean. I wasn’t even fat.”
She went on to express, “I would have said to journalists, I would have responded, I would have said, ’Don’t you dare treat me like this. I’m a young woman, my body is changing, I’m figuring it out, I’m deeply insecure, I’m terrified, don’t make this any harder than it already is,’ I would say.”
Winslet’s advocacy serves as a reminder to prioritize self-confidence and self-acceptance over external judgments. We deeply admire the work of this great actress, but above all, her great courage to become a spokesperson for the love of real bodies.