Whitney Thore, whose web videos “fat girl” became viral hits, is the subject of a new TLC reality series titled My Big Fat Fabulous Life, premiering Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 10pmET/PT. The refreshingly upbeat 
Whitney made a visit to the Television Critics Association (TCA) winter press tour in Pasadena where she reinforced her message that size doesn’t matter when it comes to finding and doing things that make you happy. In her case, it’s her passion and love for dance.
Whitney’s unapologetic approach to her body size is an inspiration. The series is a heartfelt look into her life — including the prejudices and challenges she faces as a result of her obesity. The once 130-pound dancer/prom queen gained over 200 pounds in a short time as a result of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. She’s now 380 pounds.
“Obesity in America is such an issue that no one wants to talk about, and it’s filled with so much shame that even my family and my friends, nobody said anything, and I was too ashamed to say anything, so if we could speak a little bit more candidly about obesity, which is something that I hope My Big Fat Fabulous Life will accomplish,” Whitney said.
The upcoming premiere of the show, as well as her videos, have already generated plenty of support to her “no body shame” way of life. Tearing up at the session, she expressed the hardships of her size.
“I think that fat prejudice is one of the last socially acceptable prejudices that we have in America, and I think that’s really a shame because if you want to pursue a life of happiness and health, you can’t do it when you hate yourself,” she says. “I lived in so much shame and darkness and depression for over a decade that I wasted 10 years of my life, and it wasn’t until I finally learned that I had to love myself regardless. I have to claim my joy and my happiness, because there are people out there who don’t want me to be happy, but I have one life.”
Whitney’s a welcome wake up call and reminder to all on how to treat people.
The nine-part series will follow her life in Greensboro, North Carolina. My Big Fat Fabulous Life airs on TLC Tuesdays at 10pm ET/PT.
Whitney I think you are fantastic .I’ve been over weight for most of my life and also had pcus. I did get diabetes . I did get gastric bypass I wish I had the strength you have.please keep up the good work I love you
Whitney, I watched your show for the first time today. I heard how people were talking about you and found out about your pre-diabetes. I have to tell you that the only reason they are downing you is because you are beautiful inside and out. Those people know that they can NOT be even a little up lifting and help people like you do. You are an inspiration to others. I am 50 yrs old and weight for me is hard to deal with. My weight at one time was 375lbs and am now a diabetic. I would love to give you a big hug and tell you thank you in person for lifting me spirits and making me laugh. With Much Love, D. Henson PS. Tell those DOWNERS to kiss your A_S!!!!!!
Whitney, do you know that Kate Gosselin has had polycystic ovarian syndome since way before she had any kids? And look how slim she is! You can’t keep using that for an excuse. The fact is you just eat way too much. Its bs, youre a fake, you just like to gripe and whine and used that diagnosis to get a show about a fat girl with pcos trying to lose weight. You never should have gained it in the first place. Kate never did. If you wanna lose weight, stop stuffing your face.
Hi Whitney I think your hot and do not let anyone tell you different.
Talk about starved for attention, wow. ‘Nuff said.