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LENA DUNHAM WEIGHT GAIN: “NOW I’M ABLE TO VERY PROUDLY BE IN THE BODY I’M IN”

Actress and writer Lena Dunham has been a vocal advocate for body positivity throughout her career. She’s also been open about her own struggles with body image and weight. Now, Dunham is sharing a message of self-acceptance and celebrating her weight gain. Let’s dive into her journey and how she’s found joy and freedom in her own skin.

WHO IS LENA DUNHAM?

Lena Dunham is an American writer, director, actress, and producer who’s known for her outspokenness on body positivity.  She rose to fame creating, writing, and starring in the hit HBO series “Girls,” which explored the lives of a group of millennial women navigating love, careers, and self-discovery in New York City. Dunham’s work has been praised for its raw honesty and feminist perspective, but she’s also courted controversy for her willingness to tackle uncomfortable topics.  Through it all, she’s remained a powerful voice for self-acceptance and embracing your body at any size.

IS LENA DUNHAM SPEAKING OUT ABOUT HER WEIGHT ISSUES?

Dunham shared side-by-side photos of herself, one from April 2017 when she had lost a considerable amount of weight, and a recent one where she appears heavier.

In 2017, Dunham was occupied with promoting the final season of her television series while also dealing with serious health problems and chronic pain due to endometriosis.

The star reflects on her smaller frame in the caption by writing, “On the left: 138 pounds, complimented all day and propositioned by men and on the cover of a tabloid about diets that work. Also, sick in the tissue and in the head and subsisting only on small amounts of sugar, tons of caffeine and a purse pharmacy.”

The 32-year-old Golden Globe winner then addresses her weight gain.

“On the right: 162 pounds, happy joyous and free, complimented only by people that matter for reasons that matter, subsisting on a steady flow of fun/healthy snacks and apps and entrees, strong from lifting dogs and spirits,” she writes.

Dunham has always been candid about her struggles with anxiety, depression, and OCD. During an appearance on “The View,” she publicly attributed her weight loss to the 2016 election of Donald Trump as President of the United States.

“I know that the right wing media had a field day with that and said, ‘Liberal So Weakened That She Can’t Eat Food Because of Donald Trump,’ but what I was trying to express is this has been triggering for many of us in so many different ways,” she said. “And I know that if I’m not hungry, then we have a real freakin’ problem.”

DOES LENA DUNHAM HAVE ANY MORE HEALTH PROBLEMS?

The star also experienced complications after undergoing an elective hysterectomy to treat her endometriosis and split from her longtime boyfriend, music producer Jack Antonoff. These major life changes are ones that Dunham is still healing from.

“Yes, I am body positive, but I am also a young single woman working in Hollywood, and I can’t just pretend that weight is not a thing. It’s a thing,” Dunham told the publication, before revealing that by the tail-end of her relationship with Antonoff, she had lost a worrying amount of weight “in double digits.”

“Sadness is the only thing that’s ever made me lose weight,” she explained. “Two years ago, during the last gasps of my six-year relationship, I lost weight. Not a little weight. Not the kind of weight where your bras feel kind of generous and you marvel at your subtle but oh-wow-it’s-definitely-there-now clavicle. No, it was a lot of weight.”

Later in her interview with Elle, Dunham also revealed that her weight loss was partially driven by an addiction to prescription drugs — something she went to rehab for. That said, she said that she’s doing a lot better now and uses a food diary to maintain a healthy weight and hold herself accountable, as “accountable people don’t gain thirty pounds in a single month.”

Dunham has previously addressed her dramatic weight loss through a powerful side-by-side Instagram post, showing her at 138 pounds and 162 pounds.

While she wrote that she was “complimented all day and propositioned by men and on the cover of a tabloid about diets that work,” she was also, “sick in the tissue and in the head and subsisting only on small amounts of sugar, tons of caffeine and a purse pharmacy.”

Even this OG body positivity warrior sometimes looks at the left picture longingly, until I remember the impossible pain that brought me there and onto my proverbial knees,” she concluded. “As I type I can feel my back fat rolling up under my shoulder blades. I lean in.”

However, Dunham returned to Instagram several months after her Elle UK interview to say that while she supports the larger movement, she’s “never” actually called her “body positive.”

“Because my relationship with my curves and scars isn’t overtly political — it’s wildly personal,” she wrote in March 2020. “And it isn’t always positive. I take enormous comfort in the body positivity movement, but I think of myself as something more like ‘body tolerant.’

LENA DUNHAM EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION

Lena Dunham was born in New York City to artist parents, Carroll Dunham, a painter, and Laurie Simmons, an artist and photographer known for using dolls and dollhouse furniture in her work. Her father is Protestant with mostly English ancestry, while her mother is Jewish. Dunham identifies as culturally Jewish, influenced by the poetry of Yehuda Amichai.

Dunham attended Friends Seminary and later transferred to Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, where she met future “Girls” co-star Jemima Kirke. She briefly attended The New School before graduating from Oberlin College in 2008 with a degree in creative writing. Dunham has a younger sibling, Cyrus, a Brown University graduate who appeared in her films “Creative Nonfiction” and “Tiny Furniture.” The siblings were raised in Brooklyn and spent their summers in Salisbury, Connecticut. The Dunham family is related to the prominent Tiffany family of the jewelry trade.

LENA DUNHAM CAREER

Lena Dunham began her career in the film and television industry with a distinctive voice and a penchant for storytelling that drew from her personal experiences. Her first notable work was the semi-autobiographical film “Tiny Furniture” (2010), which she wrote, directed, and starred in. The film garnered critical acclaim and won the Best Narrative Feature award at the South by Southwest Film Festival, effectively launching her career. “Tiny Furniture” also introduced audiences to Dunham’s unique blend of humor and introspection, setting the stage for her future projects.

Dunham’s breakthrough came with the HBO series “Girls,” which premiered in 2012. As the creator, writer, and star of the show, Dunham depicted the lives of four young women navigating adulthood in New York City. “Girls” received widespread acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of issues such as relationships, career struggles, and mental health. The series earned Dunham several awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. “Girls” ran for six seasons, concluding in 2017, and solidified Dunham’s reputation as a significant voice in contemporary television.

Beyond “Girls,” Dunham has expanded her influence in the entertainment industry through various roles and projects. She directed several episodes of “Girls” and ventured into writing with her memoir “Not That Kind of Girl,” published in 2014. Dunham has also been involved in numerous other creative endeavors, including acting in films like “This Is 40” (2012) and “Happy Christmas” (2014), and producing the HBO series “Camping” (2018). Her work often reflects her commitment to addressing complex and sometimes controversial topics, continuing to spark conversations and inspire audiences.

LENA DUNHAM FILMOGRAPHY

Lena Dunham’s filmography showcases her versatility as an actress, writer, director, and producer. She made her mark in the industry with the critically acclaimed “Tiny Furniture” (2010), a semi-autobiographical film where she portrayed the lead character and also wrote and directed the project. This indie gem served as a launching pad for her career, earning her recognition for her unique storytelling and raw authenticity. Dunham continued to explore her creative talents in various film projects, including “Creative Nonfiction” (2009), “This Is 40” (2012), and “Happy Christmas” (2014), where she displayed her acting prowess alongside her skills behind the camera.

Throughout her career, Dunham has taken on a diverse range of roles, from comedic to dramatic, showcasing her ability to inhabit complex characters with depth and nuance. She has also ventured into voice acting, lending her talents to animated projects like “My Entire High School Sinking into the Sea” (2016) and “Adventure Time” (2014-2016). Dunham’s filmography reflects her commitment to exploring the human experience with honesty and vulnerability, tackling themes such as relationships, identity, and self-discovery.

In recent years, Dunham has expanded her creative horizons with projects like “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019), where she appeared alongside an ensemble cast in Quentin Tarantino’s homage to 1960s Hollywood. She has also delved into writing, producing, and directing with films like “Sharp Stick” (2022) and “Catherine Called Birdy” (2022), further establishing herself as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. With each new project, Dunham continues to challenge herself and push boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.

LENA DUNHAM AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS

Lena Dunham’s contributions to the entertainment industry have garnered her recognition and acclaim, as evidenced by the numerous awards and nominations she has received throughout her career. Perhaps most notably, Dunham achieved widespread acclaim for her groundbreaking work on the HBO series “Girls,” which earned her several prestigious accolades. She won two Golden Globe Awards, including Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy, for her portrayal of the protagonist Hannah Horvath. Additionally, Dunham received multiple Emmy Award nominations for her roles as a creator, writer, and director on “Girls,” reflecting the show’s impact and influence on contemporary television.

Beyond her work on “Girls,” Dunham’s talents have been celebrated in various capacities across film, television, and literature. She received critical acclaim for her semi-autobiographical film “Tiny Furniture,” which won the Best Narrative Feature award at the South by Southwest Film Festival. Dunham’s memoir, “Not That Kind of Girl,” also received praise and earned her recognition as a talented writer and storyteller.

In addition to her individual accolades, Dunham has been recognized for her contributions to the industry as a whole. She has received honors such as the Vanguard Award from the Sundance Film Festival, which celebrates artists who push the boundaries of creative expression. Dunham’s impact extends beyond her artistic achievements, as she continues to be a trailblazer and advocate for greater diversity and representation in entertainment. Through her work and advocacy, Dunham has left an indelible mark on the industry and continues to inspire audiences around the world.

LENA DUNHAM PERSONAL LIFE

In a series of personal revelations and milestones, Lena Dunham has openly shared her journey through relationships, health struggles, and self-discovery. 

Beginning in 2012, her high-profile relationship with musician Jack Antonoff lasted until December 2017, culminating in an amicable separation. In 2018, she entered rehab for benzodiazepine addiction, marking a pivotal moment in her journey towards sobriety, which she celebrated in April 2020.

In matters of love, Dunham found companionship with musician Luis Felber, whom she began dating in January 2021 after being set up on a blind date. 

Their relationship culminated in marriage in September 2021, celebrated in a Jewish ceremony. Beyond personal revelations, Dunham discovered a familial link to New York City’s history through an episode of Finding Your Roots in 2024, revealing her lineage to Stephanus van Cortlandt, the first native-born mayor of the city.

FAQ

1. Is Lena Dunham promoting weight gain? 

No, it’s not about promoting weight gain, but rather about body positivity and self-acceptance at any size.

2. Are Jack Antonoff and Lena Dunham still friends?

They remain friends after their breakup.

3. How much is Lena Dunham net worth?

12 million dollars.

CONCLUSION

Lena Dunham’s journey to body positivity highlights the importance of self-acceptance at any size. Her experience challenges societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards. By embracing her current physique, Dunham is a role model for those struggling with body image. Her story offers hope that a more positive relationship with oneself is possible.

KELSEA BALLERINI WEIGHT LOSS: “I’M NOT A MODEL, I’M A SINGER”

Country music star Kelsea Ballerini is known for her powerful vocals and infectious energy, but her body image has sometimes been a target for online trolls. In the past, Ballerini has clapped back at comments focused on her weight, emphasizing that her health and talent are what truly matter. Let’s dive into how Ballerini promotes body positivity and maintains a healthy lifestyle that fuels her successful music career.

WHO IS KELSEA BALLERINI?

Kelsea Ballerini is an American country pop singer and songwriter who’s been turning heads (and topping charts) since the 2010s. She’s a Grammy-nominated artist known for her catchy tunes and empowering message.

THE BODY SHAMING INCIDENT

In 2018, Kelsea Ballerini faced negative comments about her weight after she posted a photo of herself in a bikini on social media. Some individuals criticized her body, prompting her to respond with a powerful message emphasizing her role as a singer and prioritizing health over unrealistic beauty standards. Ballerini addressed the issue directly, stating:

“I am a healthy, normal chick. Yes, I have a small waist, and that’s not my fault. I was born with it. But I work really hard. I work out and eat healthy. So for someone to comment on my weight or size, or whatever you want to call it, in a negative way… it’s like, ‘Don’t you have more important things to worry about?'”

In her response, Ballerini highlighted the importance of focusing on her talents as a musician rather than criticizing her appearance. She also advocated for embracing body positivity and rejecting harmful beauty standards. By speaking out, Ballerini encouraged her fans to prioritize health and self-acceptance over societal pressures to conform to narrow ideals of beauty.

KELSEA BALLERINI WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

In her recently published book of poetry titled Feel Your Way Through, the 28-year-old country music sensation Kelsea Ballerini bravely delves into her personal struggles with body image. She candidly reveals her battle with an eating disorder that plagued her for years, a journey that began when she was just 18 years old. 

In one poignant poem titled “Kangaroo,” Ballerini reflects on a childhood memory where she was nicknamed after the marsupial by a boy, who pointed out her “belly and little legs.” This revelation offers readers a glimpse into Ballerini’s vulnerable moments and underscores the importance of confronting and overcoming societal pressures and personal insecurities. Through her honest storytelling, Ballerini not only shares her own experiences but also inspires others to navigate their own paths towards self-acceptance and healing.

Reflecting on her journey from battling with diet pills and struggling with bulimia as a child, Kelsea Ballerini looks back at the significant progress she has made since those challenging times. In a recent interview with People magazine, the singer opened up about her past struggles, highlighting the distance she has traveled on her path to healing and self-discovery, “It’s a journey, and it’s never-ending.”

That lesson certainly resonated deeply with Ballerini following a performance on Today in 2015. She recalled seeing an article emerge with the headline, “Ballerini debuts baby bump,” prompting her to confront the pervasive nature of false narratives and assumptions in the media.

She recalled, “I reverted back to that 12-year-old version of me but thought: Either you’re going to get triggered by this all the time, or you’re going to get to a point where you’re okay enough to look past it.”

“I don’t work out to get skinny, I work out to be healthy. I don’t eat a salad to be skinny, I eat a salad to be healthy,” she continued. “I’ve re-calibrated what it means to me to just look in the mirror and just be like, ‘Man, I’m healthy. I’m strong. I have good breath support to do my job well.’ Those are things that matter to me now, rather than: ‘I look skinny in a dress.'”

Ballerini also aims to support others by sharing her own personal struggles openly, hoping to inspire and connect with those facing similar challenges.

“When you’re able to talk about things, you either are going to feel shame about it and you’re going to keep it hidden, or you’re going to air it out and be vulnerable and connect with people and take the sting away from it and heal together,” she explained. “And I think that’s just the better option for me at this point in my life.”

HOW KELSEA BALLERINI FACES OPPOSITIONS

Another strategy for cultivating body confidence is by confronting and shutting down body-shamers. In 2018, when someone criticized her weight after her performance at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, she responded with a powerful message, stating, “First of all, I’m not a model, I’m a singer. Second of all, I’m not responding to this to give you attention because you don’t deserve that, I’m writing because I am a healthy, normal chick which I pride myself on and work hard for and want other young girls to see that and know that ‘skinny’ is not always the goal.”

She took a stand against another social media user who assumed she was pregnant after her appearance at the 2020 CMA Awards. “I’m sure you mean well, but it’s incredibly insensitive to ask or assume if another woman is pregnant,” she wrote at the time. “I’m not, by the way. Just carrying around my organs. But if I were, I’d want to share that in my own time when I felt ready. Let’s not judge bloat levels on the internet.”

KELSEA BALLERINI EARLY LIFE

Ballerini, raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, grew up as an only child in a loving household with her father, Ed, who worked as a sales manager for a country radio station, and her mother, Carla, who held roles in marketing for Thomas Nelson Bible publishing and a sponsorship company. From a young age, Ballerini immersed herself in the arts, taking dance lessons at Premiere Dance Studio in Seymour, Tennessee, and singing in both church and school choirs. She penned her first song at the age of 12, a heartfelt gift for her mother. 

At 15, she made the bold decision to relocate to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue her passion for music. Her educational journey took her through Central High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Centennial High School in Franklin, Tennessee, before briefly attending Lipscomb University, where she nurtured her musical aspirations for two years before fully committing to a career in music.

KELSEA BALLERINI CAREER

Between 2014 and 2016, Kelsea Ballerini burst onto the country music scene with vigor. At just 19, she signed with Black River Entertainment and promptly released her debut single, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” igniting a rapid ascent on the Country Airplay chart. This success paved the way for her self-titled EP, which debuted in November 2014. Recognized as one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, Ballerini made her mark at the Grand Ole Opry the following year. Her debut album, “The First Time,” arrived in May 2015, featuring chart-toppers like “Dibs” and “Peter Pan,” solidifying her status as a rising star in country music.

From 2017 to 2019, Ballerini’s career reached new heights. She earned accolades on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 – Music list and garnered multiple award nominations, including the Academy of Country Music Awards. Releasing her second album, “Unapologetically,” in 2017 further cemented her reputation, with hits like “Legends” and “I Hate Love Songs” showcasing her prowess. Beyond music, Ballerini expanded her horizons, joining The Voice as a coach and collaborating with notable artists like The Chainsmokers.

From 2019 to 2021, Ballerini continued to evolve creatively. Her third album, “Kelsea,” unveiled a blend of vulnerability and boldness through tracks like “Homecoming Queen?” and “LA.” Venturing into literature, she released her debut book of poetry, “Feel Your Way Through,” in 2021. Amidst these endeavors, she maintained a presence in television, serving as a coach on The Voice and co-hosting the CMT Music Awards.

Looking ahead to 2022 and beyond, Ballerini’s trajectory remains dynamic. With the release of her fourth album, “Subject to Change,” she explores new sonic realms through collaborations with artists like Kelly Clarkson and Carly Pearce. Additionally, her short film and EP, “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” attest to her commitment to storytelling and innovation. As her career flourishes, Ballerini’s authenticity and passion continue to captivate audiences, cementing her status as a prominent figure in music.

KELSEA BALLERINI PERSONAL LIFE

In March 2016, Kelsea Ballerini commenced a relationship with Australian country singer Morgan Evans. Their romance culminated in an engagement on Christmas Day of the same year and a wedding ceremony on December 2, 2017, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. However, their marital journey took a turn when Ballerini announced their decision to divorce on August 29, 2022. Following negotiations, their divorce was finalized on November 15, 2022.

Subsequently, in February 2023, reports confirmed Ballerini’s relationship with Outer Banks actor Chase Stokes, with the couple allegedly beginning to date in December 2022.

In addition to her publicized relationships, Ballerini’s life has also been marked by personal challenges. As a student at Central High School in 2008, she experienced the traumatic events of a shooting, which she witnessed. Ballerini has since revealed her struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from this harrowing experience.

FAQ

1. Why is Kelsea Ballerini such a role model for young women?

Kelsea’s confidence, talent, and message of self-acceptance inspire young women to embrace who they are and pursue their dreams.

2. How did Kelsea respond to the body shaming comment?

Kelsea clapped back, emphasizing that she’s a singer, not a model, and prioritizing health is more important than unrealistic beauty standards.

3. How much is Kelsea Ballerini net worth?

$6 million.

CONCLUSION

Kelsea Ballerini’s response to body shaming is a powerful reminder that self-worth goes beyond appearance. She champions body positivity and inspires fans to embrace healthy habits for overall well-being, not just weight loss. By prioritizing her health and using her voice to promote self-acceptance, Kelsea Ballerini empowers others to focus on what truly matters: talent, confidence, and inner beauty.