UPDATE: Lizzo has opened up about her deeply personal struggles, revealing that she felt “extremely suicidal” at the onset of her weight loss journey in the fall of 2023. In a candid post shared on her Substack on November 23, 2023, the acclaimed artist detailed the emotional turmoil she faced following a public scandal that led to her feeling isolated and abandoned by those around her.
“I became deeply suicidal,” Lizzo, 37, wrote. “I cut off all my loved ones.” The scandal refers to a lawsuit filed by three of her former backup dancers in 2023, which she claims caused a wave of betrayal from those she trusted. “God knows why. I suppose to kick me while I’m down? Fifteen minutes of fame? I guess I’ll never know,” she expressed, highlighting the pain of being targeted during her darkest times.
As she navigated through this intense period, Lizzo sought solace in pilates, stating that although she sometimes cried during workouts, it became a means to process her overwhelming pain. “I found that I had lost some weight in that process, but it wasn’t as significant as it is now,” she explained, emphasizing that her journey began with a desire to heal rather than to simply lose weight.
Lizzo’s motivation to intentionally shed pounds came after extensive therapy sessions where she recognized that her weight had served as a protective barrier in her life. “My weight, like my hair, represented time. It stored energy. And I wanted to release myself from it,” she noted. This shift in perspective helped her view her weight loss as a process of “release” rather than loss.
She acknowledged the emotional weight she carried, stemming from her father’s passing in 2009 and toxic relationships that began in 2011. “I wanted to let-it-the-f*** go,” she stated, illustrating her determination to break free from past burdens. Lizzo clarified that her goal was never to conform to conventional beauty standards but rather to change how she felt in her own body.
Despite her ongoing journey, Lizzo declared, “I will always have the stretch, and the skin of a woman who carries great weight,” underscoring her pride in her identity. “The way I’ve been treated as a public figure… has been borderline emotional abuse,” she reflected, addressing the societal pressures she faces as a plus-size artist.
Lizzo also expressed her frustration with the body positivity movement, noting that some individuals have exploited it for fame. “We have a lot of work to do, to undo the effects of the ozempic boom,” she asserted, calling for more authentic conversations about body image and mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
This revealing post from Lizzo is not just about her weight loss; it’s a powerful reminder of the emotional battles many face behind closed doors. Her message resonates with anyone who has grappled with self-acceptance and the impact of public scrutiny.
Stay tuned for more updates as Lizzo continues to share her journey and advocate for mental health awareness.
