Lizzy Howell, a dancer from Milford, Delaware, unexpectedly became an internet sensation when a video of her performing fouetté turns went viral. This article explores Lizzy's journey, her response to fame, her advocacy for body positivity, and the challenges she faced.
From Viral Video to Internet Sensation
In January 2017, a 10-second Instagram video transformed 15-year-old Lizzy Howell's life. The clip showed Lizzy executing eleven fouetté turns, a challenging ballet move requiring skill and practice. The video resonated with a wide audience, not only because of her impressive technique but also because Lizzy is overweight. Her video has been played more than 380,000 times.
Unexpected Fame
Lizzy was bewildered by the attention her video received. "I guess it’s because I don’t have the typical dancer body?" she mused. The video's virality highlighted a body-positive message: women can pursue their passions regardless of their weight.
Reactions and Recognition
The video garnered thousands of comments praising Lizzy for her bravery and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. News organizations such as BuzzFeed, People magazine, "Inside Edition," and Teen Vogue featured her story, propelling her into the national spotlight.
The Impact of Internet Fame
While Lizzy was grateful for the recognition of her dancing, the sudden fame came with personal challenges.
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Negative Feedback and Bullying
Despite the positive reactions, Lizzy faced a barrage of spiteful messages about her weight and appearance. One particularly cruel joke compared her to a rotisserie chicken, which deeply affected her.
Strained Relationships
Lizzy's newfound fame strained relationships with some of her peers, who she believes were jealous of her success. "I’ve heard them say that it should have been them and not me," she shared.
Navigating the Digital World
Experts like Devorah Heitner, author of "Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World," note that online fame can be disruptive for teens. The pressure to maintain a certain image and the obsession with follower counts can negatively impact their mental well-being. Lizzy admitted to closely monitoring her follower count, highlighting the potential for online validation to become a preoccupation.
Finding Strength Through Dance and Self-Acceptance
Despite the challenges, Lizzy remained resilient, drawing strength from her passion for dance and the support of her family.
Dance as an Outlet
Dance has been Lizzy's outlet for emotions since she started at the age of five, the year her mother died. Her great-aunt, Linda Grabowski, who became her legal guardian, recognized the importance of dance in Lizzy's life. "Dance is her outlet for all her emotions, good and bad," Grabowski said.
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Overcoming Obstacles
Lizzy has faced numerous obstacles, including being bullied for her weight and struggling with pseudotumor cerebri, a medical condition causing excess swelling in the brain. Despite these challenges, she persevered, using dance as a source of joy and comfort.
Embracing Body Positivity
Lizzy's journey has made her a reluctant role model for body positivity. She encourages others to embrace their bodies and reject unrealistic beauty standards. "I guess I am a role model because I am just myself," she said.
Advocating for Change in the Dance Industry
Lizzy is using her platform to advocate for change in the dance industry, calling for greater body diversity and representation.
Challenging Stereotypes
Lizzy challenges the notion that dancers must conform to a specific body type. She wishes to be recognized simply as a dancer, without the "plus-size" label. "I don't want to be labeled. I'm just a human being and I look different than you, which is fine because we all look different from each other," she stated.
Speaking Out Against Fatphobia
Lizzy is unafraid to speak out against fatphobia and performative activism. She recounted an experience at an American Eagle store where she felt body-shamed by a staff member, highlighting the need for companies to genuinely embrace inclusivity rather than simply jumping on the body positivity bandwagon.
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Lizzy's Future Aspirations
Lizzy is determined to pursue her dreams and inspire others along the way. She is currently working towards a move to Los Angeles to expand her career opportunities.
Pursuing Professional Opportunities
Lizzy is actively auditioning for roles and collaborating with brands that align with her values. She has appeared in ad campaigns for companies like Target and Invisalign and hopes to work with artists like JoJo Siwa.
Inspiring Young Creatives
Lizzy wants to inspire young creatives to embrace their individuality and not be complacent with the status quo. "Just because you're different in high school doesn't mean crap in real life," she advises.
Addressing Weight Loss and Health
Lizzy has also addressed the topic of weight loss and health, clarifying misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of overall well-being.
Setting the Record Straight
Lizzy wants people to stop making assumptions about her, including the assumption that she isn't trying to lose weight. She clarified that she is focused on improving her health and becoming a better dancer. "It shouldn't matter how much I weigh, the only thing that should matter is my passion for dance. I am trying to lose weight. I know it will make me a better dancer, as well as make me healthier. Losing weight is hard!"
Managing PCOS and Prioritizing Health
Lizzy has been open about managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can make weight management challenging. She works closely with healthcare professionals to manage her symptoms and prioritizes self-care and therapy.
Net Worth, Height, and Other Facts
As of now, Lizzy Howell’s estimated net worth ranges between $100,000 and $500,000. She stands approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall (163 cm).