The multitalented artist opens up about her personal experiences with weight, the pressure of Hollywood's beauty standards, and why she's committed to shifting the cultural narrative around obesity.
You've been outspoken about the weight-related stigma and discrimination you've faced, both in the music industry and in Hollywood. Can you share a bit about your journey and how that has shaped your perspective?
Queen Latifah: Weight has always been a topic of discussion, especially in the entertainment industry. I watched as certain artists would dramatically lose weight before album releases, only to regain it shortly after. There was this constant pressure to fit a certain mold of beauty - the size two, blonde-haired, blue-eyed ideal.
As a rapper and then an actress, I had to really find my own path and refuse to compromise who I am. It wasn't easy, as I faced pushback from producers, studio executives, and even some in my own community who couldn't see past the surface. But I was determined to succeed on my own terms and show that talent and authenticity matter more than any physical attributes.
The "It's Bigger Than Me" campaign you've spearheaded with Novo Nordisk aims to reframe the conversation around obesity. What was the impetus behind this initiative, and what have been some of the key goals?
Queen Latifah: The core of this campaign is recognizing that obesity is a complex, chronic disease - not a personal failing or a matter of willpower. For too long, people living with obesity have been shamed, stigmatized, and dismissed by their own loved ones, by society, and even by healthcare providers who should be there to support them.
Our goal with "It's Bigger Than Me" is to break down those harmful stereotypes, educate the public, and empower those affected to advocate for their health without fear of judgment. We want to create a safe space for open dialogue, where people can share their experiences and healthcare professionals can learn how to provide more compassionate, effective care. It's about building bridges between the science, the culture, and the personal journeys. Because at the end of the day, this isn't just about me or Novo Nordisk - it's about uplifting an entire community and sparking real, systemic change.
You mentioned the challenges you faced in the entertainment industry when it came to perceptions around body image and weight. How have you seen the conversation evolve, both in Hollywood and in the broader cultural landscape?
Queen Latifah: I think we're starting to see a shift, but there's still a long way to go. The body positivity movement has helped challenge narrow beauty standards, and more artists and public figures are being vulnerable about their own struggles.
But the truth is, weight and body shape are still used as punchlines, and the stigma and shame persist. I'll never forget the reactions I'd get when people would assume things about my eating habits or health just based on my appearance. It's hurtful and dehumanizing. What's important now is continuing to have these difficult but necessary conversations. Raising awareness, educating people, and giving a platform to those whose voices have been marginalized. Because at the end of the day, you can't judge someone's health or worth by how they look. That's the mindset we have to change.
As you look to the future, what are your hopes for the "It's Bigger Than Me" campaign and the broader movement to destigmatize obesity?
Queen Latifah: My hope is that we can create a world where people living with obesity feel empowered to seek the care and support they need, without fear of judgment or shame. Where doctors are trained to approach this issue with empathy and understanding, not outdated biases.
And ultimately, where we can have open, honest dialogues about obesity as the complex, chronic disease that it is - not something to be laughed at or used as a punchline. It's about restoring dignity, promoting self-love, and building a more compassionate, inclusive society. This is bigger than any one person or organization. It's about coming together as a community and sparking real, lasting change. I'm honored to be a part of that journey, and I'm excited to see where it takes us next.