How an influencer's weight loss triggered an internet meltdown

is a culture writer interested in reality TV, movies, pop music, Black media, and celebrity culture. Previously, she wrote for the Daily Beast and contributed to several publications, including Vulture, W Magazine, and Bitch Media.
By the time Remi Bader, who built her career as a plus-size influencer with over 2 million followers on TikTok, went on Khloé Kardashian's podcast to address her smaller body, it had been subject to nearly a year and a half of speculation.
Fans were certain Bader had betrayed them, but exactly how and in what way was up for debate: Had she pumped the body positivity movement for cash and then turned her back on it by getting thin? Was the real problem that she owed it to her followers to explain how she had lost the weight?
On Khloe in Wonderland, Bader revealed that she had undergone weight-loss surgery for numerous mental and physical health reasons, including a binge-eating disorder, a 100-pound weight gain, and chronic back pain. She also shared what she describes as the 'brutal' recovery experience after getting a bariatric procedure known as SADI-S, or single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy. The procedure caused weeks of incessant vomiting and even led her to contemplate suicide.
These harrowing revelations failed to stop the backlash; indeed, it had only just begun.
For better or worse, the way we discuss weight loss has changed dramatically. Historically, shedding pounds garnered an automatic congratulations (see Oprah and her wheelbarrow of fat in 1988, or Valerie Bertinelli's Jenny Craig ads almost two decades later). But a conversation that morphed with the body positivity movement of the 2010s — finally cheering women for the bodies they already had — has only grown more complicated with the rise of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.
The use of these Type 2 diabetes medications for weight loss has sparked ethical concerns regarding access to the drug for people with diabetes. It's also prompted an even louder panic around what it means to be a certain weight. For many, the drug's popularity signals a return to the narrow beauty standards of the '90s and 2000s and a reversal of more recent attitudes. While thinness has never truly gone out of style, the previous decade saw the rise of BBLs and a certain type of curvy body being celebrated in mainstream culture.
Now, in a phenomenon born out of rightful frustration that impossible beauty standards are making a comeback, people have seemingly never been more comfortable interrogating people's bodies and the choices they make for them.
When a body belongs to the internet
Despite the backlash — and the raw, upsetting details — Bader's interview arguably makes for a refreshing listen. It's a departure from the more neatly packaged, 'inspirational' weight-loss stories that the public has come to expect from celebrities, including Kardashian. Celebrity weight-loss narratives are often framed as moral accomplishments and acts of discipline, while Bader's was positioned as more of a struggle to survive. It felt extremely on-brand for Bader, whose brutal honesty about navigating the world as a plus-size woman made her internet-famous.
Bader initially gained a following back in 2020 doing 'realistic hauls.' In these videos, Bader tries on clothing from popular brands, demonstrating how awkwardly they fit her body compared to the models on the websites. These funny, personable (if not entirely original) videos propelled her to millions of followers and a profitable but precarious level of fame: the parasocial BFF.
As a plus-size person on an app dominated by size-2 influencers and flooded with the latest weight-loss trends, she was able to cut through the noise. Inevitably, she transcended the role of a personality. A 2023 interview with Bader in People called her the face of the body positivity movement, while Allure hailed her as TikTok's 'hero of plus-size fashion.'
So when Bader began getting visibly smaller last year, posting workout videos without disclosing her surgery, she was met with skepticism. Many of her fans were confused and disappointed, given that she no longer seemed to fall under the category of 'plus-size influencer.' Bader now admits she wasn't sure how to initially address all the speculation and anger from fans. In the wake of her tell-all interview, several followers say that Bader blocked them when they inquired about the drastic weight loss in her comments section.
These are just some of the criticisms being hurled at Bader after disclosing her weight-loss surgery: that she responded poorly to fans' concerns, that she's no longer relatable, that she betrayed her following, that she used an underserved group to gain money and fame.
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Even those defending Bader's right to lose weight have described the entire fallout as a branding disaster. Content creator Franchesca Ramsey said in a TikTok that Bader made a 'crucial mistake' in her lack of transparency and mass blocking: 'She completely abandoned the core tenets of her brand: being honest, being plus-sized, and being relatable.'
Celebrity weight loss has never been more complicated
While these responses are all a bit reductive and ignore the personal factors that led Bader to getting surgery, they're not surprising. In fact, they demonstrate a collective discomfort around celebrity weight loss that feels especially apparent in the age of Ozempic.
Bader embarking on a press tour, including a profile in Self, to disclose her weight-loss journey is a bit of a rarity nowadays. For the most part, the era of famous people participating in magazine profiles devoted to their weight loss and divulging their diets on talk shows are gone. The few media figures eager to share at least some of the secrets behind their body transformations are Oprah Winfrey and occasionally the Kardashians. Winfrey, specifically, has long dedicated her former talk show, magazine, and other platforms to sharing her struggles with weight gain and her methods for weight loss. Most recently, she stepped down from her decade-long position as a board member for WeightWatchers after she disclosed that she was using an unnamed weight-loss medication. Last year, she hosted a TV special about the impact of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro.
More and more, public figures are adopting a code of silence around their physical appearances. The general rule that 'you shouldn't comment on other people's bodies' has become a way for celebrities — like Ariana Grande, for example — to shut down online speculation and unwanted press. (It's rarely ever effective.) Others, like Adele, have defended their weight loss as a personal choice that doesn't need explanation.
Oprah Winfrey hosting 'An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution' on March 18, 2024. Eric McCandless/Disney
Meanwhile, the occasional celebrity who chooses to share their weight loss is prone to intense criticism. This is evident beyond the backlash to Bader. Lizzo, another voice for body positivity, has publicized her weight-loss goals on social media over the past year and has garnered similar comments to Bader claiming that she's abandoning her previously 'inclusive' brand. In a post-Ozempic climate, weight loss is taken personally by fans, especially those who saw their size represented by someone famous and admired; that size then shrinking is looked at as contributing to a more anti-fat culture.
Related Obesity in the age of Ozempic
Health and culture writer Mikala Jamison, who writes the newsletter Body Type, sees the overwhelmingly negative reaction to public weight losses like Bader's as 'overcorrection to diet culture.'
'It's understandable why people are very up in arms, or just concerned, about diet culture and this pursuit of thinness that we're seeing more of,' Jamison said. 'It's good, and we need that. But people feel as though they're performing some kind of activism by just talking about how this person's skinny now, or [saying] 'I'm worried about this person.''
In Bader's case, the knee-jerk reaction from her following especially feels like a missed opportunity, given all of the information she divulged. Her experience as a plus-size person in the public eye speaks to something Jamison says we all know but find it hard to talk about: 'If you have ever in your life been truly fat, or experienced personal and systemic bias because of your weight, that's incredibly hard.'
Maybe it's because Bader's weight-loss story emphasizes this reality so starkly that it's been difficult for social media to really engage with it. On one hand, she dispelled the dream that she sold to her followers, that she could be both comfortable and successful in a bigger body — although that doesn't mean that it's impossible for others.
She also demonstrated how tough losing weight and treating an eating disorder can be, even with significant resources. In her Self profile, Bader said she tried a laundry list of treatments, including antidepressants, Ozempic, other weight-loss medications, and Overeaters Anonymous meetings. After getting off of Ozempic, she said her binge-eating disorder 'came back with a vengeance.'
Even as Bader speaks about her post-surgery body, she sounds unsure about the future. 'I think it helped me, but will it help me in a year?' she told Self. 'What if I gain all the weight back? What if I get sick from the [lack of] nutrients? I'm not a doctor. I don't have it all figured out.'
Despite claims that she's abandoned her old persona, it didn't feel like Bader was unveiling a new version of herself. It was instead a continuation of the same message she relayed in her try-on hauls: that having a body, particularly a plus-size one, can be hard. Now, making changes to that body publicly — with all the judgment that comes with it — might be even harder.

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27 Torrid Items To Reinvent Your Style This Summer

A denim trucker jacket because every season deserves a tried and true staple that goes with literally everything. But, don't get it twisted. Every denim jacket isn't just a replica of another. This one features a trucker jacket silhouette and a distressed hem to set it apart from the others. Promising review: "I received this jacket in the mail yesterday and I like it. I feel like to could be styled with dresses, jeans and trousers depending on the look you are trying to achieve. IMO, the fit is true to size. Also, in my opinion, there is not a lot of stretch. I ordered a 2 and that's what i normally order in shirts, jackets and blazers. The sleeves hit right at the wrist. My favorite part of the jacket is the raw hem at the bottom. I will probably also purchase the darker denim. I would recommend." —Lovin All Things DenimPrice: $41.94 (originally $69.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) A sleeveless mini dress featuring pockets that reviewers can't stop raving about. They love the knit fabric and the smoothing effect the dress gives. They say it's great for every occasion because it can be dressed up or down. Bonus: It comes in many colors. Promising reviews: "Love the new colors! I can't help but buy these dresses! These dresses always fit and look good. Can't go wrong." —CJS8082"Comfortable Fit! Love how the flare lays around my belly area. I bought several more colors in this because I'm in love with these! Used this Black one with my Western Torrid Boots for a Mexican Festival 🥳 and got so many compliments 🥰🙌🏻❤️ All I had to do was accessorize it. The stretch and length were a blessing all night long 😍. Love Love Love This Style! Thank you, My Fabulous Torrid!!!!! ❤️🙌🏻" —LaPalomaDelValle95601Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–6X and six colors) A corset tank with a knit fabric that holds you close for a somewhat bodycon effect. Did I mention the tie straps? If you've got an occasion on the books and are rummaging for something to wear, this corset tank combo will always stop the show. And that matching skirt you're eyeing, you can get it right here. Promising review: "Bought this in a two and I'm so happy I did! It's snug on the fit as you'd expect for a corset tank. It's stupid cute! I paired it with a skirt bought from Torrid years ago, and it looks amazing with it. This shirt looks amazing with everything I've tried it with so far, may end up buying it in more colors, I love it that much, the color I did buy was black." —I_love_milk_dudsPrice: $21.54 (originally $35.90; available in sizes M–6X and three colors) A triangle swim top, that's wire-free for your comfort, with matching high-waisted cheeky bottom, ready to ensure you stay photo-ready at the next pool party, even if you never take a dip. Promising reviews: "I bought this bikini top a month ago to help build my confidence in my physical. The color and the shape of the product work really well, and I'm so happy that I found the design pattern I absolutely love. I would totally recommend this product." —Anonymous"Big girl, big fun! Great fit for the summer sun. The waist and cup sizes are just the right fit. Gives support. Looks good wet or dry." —AnonymousPrice: $35.94 for the top (originally $59.90; available in sizes L–6X and three styles) and 20+ for the bottoms (originally $44.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine styles) A leopard sarong ideal for weekend getaways when multipurpose clothing reigns supreme. You can wear it as a skirt or a dress for a barely-there garment on the hottest of days. Promising review: "So, I purchased this in leopard print. And thought it was cute. I have never found a sarong that fits well. I got this and omg! It fits so well in both styles, the dress style and the sarong style. this will be my go-to this summer, I am so glad I bought it!" —theedarkcrystalPrice: $14.95 (originally $29.90; also available in two other colors) A button front overall set on upgrading your usual farmhouse chic attire. These overalls aren't rough like other denim; they're softer for added comfort. And, the haltered top adds a little sauciness that you don't get from traditional overalls. Promising reviews: "These are so dang cute and comfortable! I've never had a pair of overalls that weren't too short in the rise. These are terrific!" —QueenKarin"Total score. I love a good pair of bibs. The ties are awesome and the back is not like farmer bibs. I did get an 18 for more room. I get so many compliments every time I wear them. I am thinking about another pair for some patches." —Kris10starrPrice: $59.94 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 16–22) A drop cherry earring so ~sweet~ for your go-to summer 'fit... whether that's a dress and sandals, or a basic tank, high-rise shorts, and your fave slides. Price: $11.94 (originally $19.90) A V-neck tee in an assortment of 21 colors to be used at your discretion, all summer long. Perhaps you just want to lounge around in an ultra-soft tee. Or, maybe you want to twist it up into a crop top for more stylish flair. And if you want to wear one every day of the week, that's your business. Promising reviews: "Absolutely love the cowhide color! I got so many compliments. And the fit and feel of the shirt is awesome!" —angelmir"Finally, a t-shirt that fits well and looks great on. 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Price: $39.54 (originally $65.90; available in sizes 6.5–13) A mesh maxi skirt with flowers galore that'll look great with your favorite combat boots (because yes, you're edgy year round). Price: $35.94 (originally $59.90; available in sizes M–6X) A smocked crop top and skirt set so you don't have to worry about matching pieces together. The halter top and skirt, complete with leg slit, would like to be your plus one for the beach bonfire this weeend. Promising review: "Get this! I stepped out my comfort zone and with full intention to return it once it came in from it on and LOVED it! Top and bottom is stretchy. Theres 1 slit. Could've added another one ot the one could've been higher. Going to add some wedges, accessories and maybe a Jean jacket if the weather isnt warm enough. I got a 1 bc I'm top heavy. It was perfect!" —TorriddivaJPrice: $20 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 2X–6X) A platform sandal in case you've been on the hunt for a shoe that can withstand hours on your feet with no problem. Promising review: "I bought these in green a month ago and loved them so much I ordered the other colors. They fit well, are not too bulky and are very comfortable. I bought my usual Torrid size and I had no problems." —AngelB05Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 6–13 and three colors) A pair of high-rise pull-on shorts so your denim jorts can take the day off on warm days when you'd prefer to wear a lighter material. Price: $10 (originally $29.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) And! a matching collared top to turn those garments into a travel-friendly ensemble. Plus, if you think about it, you can never have enough loungewear. Promising review: "So soft and feels amazing. I bought this in blue and may *need* to get every color. 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Promising review: "These bike shorts are the perfect length to wear with a T-shirt around the house! They are super soft and super stretchy, perfect for lounging in. And they have pockets!! I bought my usual size 2 and they are a perfect fit, but could possibly even go a size smaller since they have a great stretch." —MandyLue77Price: $15.54 (originally $25.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine colors) A cotton maxidress for a refreshing and breezy dress to wear when you have to ride your bike from the family country house down the road to the bus station so you can stop your childhood crush from leaving town because you haven't had the chance to tell them, "I've always loved you, too." Promising review: "Love love love this dress! It is flowy and not too cool or too warm for summer wear, even in air conditioning or high heat. Looks adorable and I could see wearing it out to honestly, I got it to be comfortable around home or on live calls for work and feel beautiful." —Angel KatPrice: $99.90 (available in sizes M–6X) A tie-front blouse pretty much the definition of work and play. Throw a cami or shell underneath for a 9-to-5 appropriate top, but once you clock out, ditch the cami and tube top for a gorgeous night-out look. Promising review: "I bought this with the matching wide-leg pants and it looks amazing together? I wear it with a tube top under it for more professional settings and without the tube top and with a purple bra for a [gorgeous] look! Go for it!" —CShampPrice: $27.54 (originally $45.90; available in sizes L–6X and two colors) A smoky pair of cat-eye sunglasses because your peepers are craving a retro pair of shades to dim some of the sun's shine this season. 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Promising review: "These are comfy and fit perfectly. Love the coloring and the look. These will be my go-to shorts for all summer long." —Mandi2025Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 10–16 and two colors) A casual skater dress when you're unsure what the day will hold and want to throw on something that won't be too dressy if the vibes are casual, but won't make you stand out if the vibes are more polished. We call this an anything dress. Promising review: "Can't wait for warm weather!!! These dresses are so cute and comfortable. It will be cute with little slip-on sneakers for a super casual dressed up a bit with sandals and some jewelry." —MELD68Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–5X and five colors) A vibrant skort in a 'poppin yellow hue that'll have passerbys yelling, "MUSTAAAAAARD." And if you're wondering if this wonderful piece of athletic wear has a matching top: voila! Promising review: "I love this skort! 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