Chrissy Metz, the actress known for her role as Kate Pearson in the widely acclaimed NBC drama "This Is Us," has been at the center of discussions regarding her character's weight loss journey. This article delves into the complexities surrounding Metz's weight loss, both on and off-screen, exploring her statements on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," contractual obligations, and the emotional underpinnings of her character's struggles.
The "This Is Us" Contract and Weight Loss
Last month, Chrissy Metz revealed that her contract for "This Is Us" included a clause about weight loss. She told TVLine that losing weight would be a part of her character's trajectory. She viewed it as a "win-win" situation despite some criticisms of the show for potentially not being body-positive.
Clarification on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show"
Metz addressed the weight loss issue further during her appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show." She clarified that losing weight was not explicitly mandated by the show. "It wasn’t mandated. It wasn’t like, 'You have to do this.' But if this is the story line, naturally you would lose weight," she explained to DeGeneres.
She reiterated that the decision to lose weight aligned with her personal goals. "I was kind of like, ‘I hope I get to lose weight.’ That’s a win-win for me - motivated in a different way this time," Metz shared. She emphasized that she, as Chrissy, wanted to do things that mentally, emotionally, and physically make her the best that she can be.
Metz drew a parallel to other actors who have transformed their bodies for roles, stating, "Like most actors, we are chameleons, so we have different roles - like Christian Bale lost all that weight for The Machinist."
Read also: Chrissy Metz's Transformation
Kate's Potential Gastric Bypass Surgery
In a recent episode of "This Is Us," Kate considers undergoing gastric bypass surgery. DeGeneres inquired about how Metz would portray the rapid weight loss that would result from such a procedure. Metz remained tight-lipped, not revealing whether Kate would actually go through with the surgery.
When DeGeneres asked Metz how she intended to lose weight quickly enough to reflect the "fast fix" of weight loss surgery, Metz agreed that "It is a fast fix, and it's not always the right answer," but coyly refused to elaborate about what's in store for Kate. "So maybe you don't do it?" wondered DeGeneres. "Who knows?" Metz said, adding that right now frustrated Kate "wants a quick fix."
The Emotional Core of Kate's Eating Issues
Metz emphasized that Kate's struggles with food are not simply about the food itself. She clarified that Kate's eating issues were "not about the food" - her desire to lose weight was really about overcoming the underlying emotional problems. Food is merely a symptom of deeper emotional issues.
Kate's decision to consider gastric bypass surgery came after a difficult plane flight and a split from her boyfriend, Toby, whom she met in Overeaters Anonymous.
Understanding Kate's Character
Kate Pearson, played by Chrissy Metz, is a 36-year-old personal assistant who struggles with her weight. She attends Overeaters Anonymous meetings and is trying to find her way. The character's weight loss journey is intertwined with her emotional growth and self-discovery.
Read also: Metz on Self-Acceptance and Weight
Read also: Self-Acceptance Journey