Featured Image Source
To quote Taylor Swift, Jonah Hill “would very much like to be excluded from this narrative.”
The narrative? His body.
On Instagram, the actor, who’s been in the public eye for over a decade, posted “I know you mean well but I kindly ask that you not comment on my body.”
View this post on Instagram
He added, “Good or bad I want to politely let you know it’s not helpful and doesn’t feel good. Much respect.”
Women’s bodies have been the subject of scrutiny and comments — my god, SO many FUCKING comments — since FOREVER.
We know exactly how Hill feels.
And while I applaud Hill’s decision to speak out, I’m not cheering as loudly as the rest of the internet.
His post received a ton of support and praise, and that’s great!
I’m not a hypocrite.
Men who suffer from body issues asking that their boundaries be respected is valid.
But is it fair that a man speaks out once and is lauded as a hero while women who have been screaming at the top of their lungs for the same respect are ignored?
No, and that’s what rankles me — I’m clapping, but for a slightly different reason.
I’m clapping because Hill’s post has brought attention to an important issue — that men also suffer from body issues.
They just aren’t as vocal about it, but they should be! And THAT is worth talking about.
Men And Body Image Issues
Although rarely discussed, men suffer from body image issues that affect both their physical and mental health.
According to WebMD, “Surveys on male body image found that 20 percent to 40 percent of men were unhappy with some aspect of their looks, including physical appearance, weight, and muscle size and tone.”
David Frederick, assistant professor of psychology at Chapman University in Orange, Calif., and the study’s lead author, said that “men’s body image is an issue that gets overlooked.”
“We know so many women are dissatisfied, so it kind of gets lost that there’s also a lot of men who are dissatisfied,” he said.
Hill’s Journey
In February, the U.K.’s Daily Mail shared a few not-so-flattering photos of Hill surfing, in an attempt to body shame the actor.
Hill called the tabloid out by posting screenshots of the pics on his IG, with a heartfelt caption.
“I don’t think I ever took my shirt off to go into the water until I was in my mid-thirties,” saying that it “probably would have happened sooner if my childhood insecurities weren’t exacerbated by years of public mockery about my body by press and interviewers.”
View this post on Instagram
“So the idea that the media tries to play me by stalking me while surfing and printing photos like this and it can’t phase me anymore is dope,” he added.
“I’m 37 and finally love and accept myself. This isn’t a ‘good for me’ post . And it’s definitely not a ‘feel bad for me post’. It’s for the the kids who don’t take their shirt off at the pool. Have fun. You’re wonderful and awesome and perfect. All my love.”
He wrapped it up with a positive vibe, concluding, “Oh and Daily Mail, not even you can take that smile from my face ;).”
You go, Jonah!
Comfortable In His Own Skin
In August, Hill again posted a body shot to his IG, featuring a slimmer frame while showcasing a new tat that reads “Body Love.”
View this post on Instagram
Hill looks happy and confident in the pic, and his ink is a permanent reminder to love yourself no matter what shape (or size) you are.
The discussion Hill started is valuable, as it is a good reminder not to comment on someone else’s body — and that body shaming affects men as well as women.
What do you think about Jonah Hill speaking out about body comments? Let us know below!
For More Entertainment And Celebrity News Stories, Read These:
Dame Helen Mirren Shares How She Lives Her Best Life With These 8 Quotes
Sarah Jessica Parker Teaches Us How To Process Grief After Losing A Loved One
