The name Thea Vidale might ring a bell, perhaps conjuring images of a sitcom or a particular character from the world of professional wrestling. But her story, particularly concerning her health and weight, extends far beyond the realm of entertainment. This article delves into the experiences of Thea Vidale, touching upon her health challenges, career, and the circumstances that led to a significant turning point in her life.
From Sitcom Star to Wrestling "Mama"
Thea Vidale is an actress and comedian known for her role in the sitcom "Thea." Some may also remember her stint in WWE as "Mama Benjamin," the domineering mother of wrestler Shelton Benjamin. The character was a stereotypical portrayal of a black mother.
The "Mama Benjamin" Character
In WWE, Shelton Benjamin, despite his talent, needed something more to reach the top. The solution, according to the WWE, was "Mama Benjamin." The character, played by Thea Vidale, was introduced to accompany him to the ring, offering encouragement and, at times, embarrassment.
Mama Benjamin's character was depicted as a stereotypical black mama. She would threaten Shelton with "butt-whoopings" if he lost, shout encouragement, and celebrate his victories.
Health Issues and Departure from WWE
The end of Mama Benjamin's run came abruptly. During a match, she interfered, leading to a confrontation with the Big Show, culminating in her clutching her chest and collapsing from a heart attack. In reality, Thea Vidale was experiencing health problems, leading to the staged heart attack to explain her absence.
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The Broader Context: Ms. Pat and Redefining Sitcom Moms
The story of Thea Vidale resurfaces when discussing comedians like Ms. Pat, whose show, "The Ms. Pat Show," aims to redefine the portrayal of mothers in sitcoms. Ms. Pat, like Vidale, challenges conventional expectations. Ms. Pat acknowledges surface-level similarities, noting that people might compare them simply because they are both "fat, Black and our voice carries."
Ms. Pat's journey to getting her own TV show was not easy. After five years of struggle, a pilot was shot, only to be dropped by the network a month before the start of a global pandemic. The show found a home on the BET+ streaming service. Ms. Pat's goal was to shake up the idea of what a multi-camera sitcom mom could be, and she wasn't willing to water herself down to do it.
Ms. Pat's Story: Authenticity and Resilience
"The Ms. Pat Show" is semi-autobiographical, starting with Ms. Pat on stage at a comedy club. Ms. Pat, both in real life and in the show, has been shot before. As chronicled in her 2017 book "Rabbit," Ms. Pat was born into poverty in Atlanta and suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her mother's boyfriend when she was 10. She gave birth to her first and second child at 14 and 15, and began selling crack cocaine to clothe and feed her children. She was shot at age 16, went to jail at 18 and then was shot a second time.
Ms. Pat said retaining the authenticity of her story was a top priority when developing the sitcom, and she is eager to welcome in new fans ready for the level of realness "The Ms. Pat Show" delivers. Now a mother of four, she said her family is supportive and excited to be part of a story that, at its core, is one of resilience and never letting your circumstances determine where you end up.
The Importance of Healthy Relationships
Gastric bypass surgery may be an increasingly popular choice for people struggling with obesity, lasting success requires lifestyle changes that begin with a focus on healthy relationships. Studies have shown a strong correlation between healthy relationships and mental and physical well-being. People are especially vulnerable to addictions, such as food, alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, the Internet, or even work when their needs for emotional and physical connection are unmet. One of the first lessons of relationship and marriage education classes is that since bonding is the only biologically-based need people cannot meet for themselves, it becomes central to the work of relationships.
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