Lisa Kudrow, beloved for her role as Phoebe Buffay on FRIENDS, candidly shared her struggles with body dysmorphia during the filming of the iconic sitcom. The actress revealed the challenges she faced, including unhealthy comparisons with co-stars Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox.
Body Image Insecurities: Lisa Kudrow addressed her battle with body image issues during an episode of the WTF with Marc Maron podcast. She disclosed that she often found herself comparing her physique to that of Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox, feeling like a “mountain of a woman” in comparison. The actress expressed how seeing herself on television led to a distorted perception of her body.
Unhealthy Comparisons: In the podcast, Kudrow opened up about the challenges of being in the public eye and the unfortunate societal norms associated with body image. She noted that societal standards often celebrate being underweight, leading her to feel inadequate compared to her co-stars. “You see yourself on TV, and it’s that, ‘Oh my god, I’m just a mountain of a girl'”, shared Kudrow, revealing the impact of societal expectations on her self-image.
Physical Toll of Thinning: The FRIENDS star admitted that, in an attempt to conform to certain beauty standards, she forced herself to become extremely thin, a choice that took a toll on her health. Kudrow revealed suffering from colds and sinus infections during this period, emphasizing the negative consequences of pursuing an unhealthy body ideal.
Evolution of Body Positivity: Lisa Kudrow highlighted her ongoing battle with body positivity, acknowledging the fluctuations between self-criticism and acceptance. She shared her journey from feeling undeserving of visibility to adopting a more positive perspective, recognizing the value of aging and embracing her body as it is.
Healthy Relationships and Nostalgic Bonds: Despite her struggles, Kudrow maintained strong friendships with her FRIENDS co-stars. The cast often shares nostalgic throwback photos from their time on the set, fostering a sense of camaraderie and fond memories.
Lisa Kudrow’s openness about her experience with body dysmorphia contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding body image and societal pressures. Her journey towards embracing a healthier perspective serves as an inspiration for those navigating similar challenges.