The superficial scrutiny of public figures is an unfortunate reality of celebrity culture, a truth that was at the forefront of conversation when actress Selena Gomez faced body-shaming comments during the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. Following her appearance, where many observers noted her apparent weight loss compared to the previous year, ex-boyfriend Taylor Lautner stepped in to defend her with a powerful message on social media.
In an age where social platforms amplify both praise and criticism, Lautner used his Instagram to express discontent with the harmful comments circulating on various media outlets. “It’s a cruel world full of hate out there,” he stated, underscoring the emotional toll such criticisms can have on individuals, especially in light of their personal struggles. This incident highlights an ongoing issue within entertainment, where one’s worth can be unjustly tied to appearance.
Lautner’s response came after derogatory remarks about Gomez’s changing figure swarmed social media, including insinuations about potential use of medication or cosmetic surgery to achieve her look. While the anonymity of the internet provides a shield for critics, it also reveals a deeper societal problem—whereby the physical appearance of women, in particular, becomes fodder for discussion and judgement.
This is compounded by Gomez’s own admission regarding her health conditions. She has previously discussed living with lupus, an autoimmune disease that can induce weight fluctuations, stressing that her body changes are not simply aesthetic but a reflection of her health journey. “When I’m taking [the medicine], I tend to hold a lot of water weight,” she explained in a TikTok video, being transparent about an aspect of her life that is often overlooked in the criticism surrounding her figure.
The moral obligation of public figures to speak out against unkindness is amplified in situations like these. Alongside Lautner, figures such as Whoopi Goldberg and Sunny Hostin publicly supported Gomez, emphasizing that discussion of her body should not serve as entertainment. Hostin highlighted that weight loss in Gomez’s case might not only stem from lifestyle choices but also from medical factors—a sentiment echoed by Goldberg, who asserted that it’s unnecessary for the public to engage in such private matters.
Gomez, a multi-talented artist, has long been an advocate for self-acceptance and body positivity. However, the ongoing cycle of scrutiny she faces is emblematic of the larger culture of negativity that affects many individuals in the spotlight. Celebrities, while in some ways removed from ordinary life, face heightened pressures and scrutiny that most people cannot comprehend.
The narrative surrounding Gomez’s appearance at the SAG Awards is more than just about her body; it signifies the larger discourse about kindness, empathy, and personal battles. In an entertainment landscape saturated with commentary on appearances, it is essential to remember the humanity of those we see on screen and the impact of our words. Lautner’s poignant reminder to “be a little bit nicer” is a resonant call for societal change.
As the public continues to engage with celebrities, it is crucial to foster an environment that prioritizes compassion over criticism. Collective efforts to shift the dialogue from appearance to the acknowledgment of personal stories can help dismantle the stigma surrounding visible changes and remind us all of the beauty that lies beyond physicality.