ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

The Body Police Are Back: Scrutiny of Women's Bodies Intensifies

other · 2026-08-17

A recent article in Vogue examines the intensified focus on women's bodies, particularly among celebrities. Anne Hathaway responded to conspiracy theories regarding her pregnancy on Instagram, declaring, "Fake hair, real bump." Meanwhile, Kate Beckinsale encountered allegations related to an eating disorder, Jenna Ortega faced criticism for looking excessively thin in an Esquire video, and Ariana Grande stepped back from the public eye due to negative feedback. The piece connects these issues to the increasing popularity of weight-loss drugs like GLP-1s, which reportedly raise earnings for slim women by 6%. Research indicates that GLP-1 usage enhances job prospects for unemployed women by 26.9% and boosts marriage chances for single women. Economist Rebecca Diamond highlighted the correlation between women's achievements and weight loss. Additionally, the article addresses abortion surveillance, with CDC director Dr. Erica Schwartz stressing its significance amid escalating abortion restrictions impacting over 31 million women.

Key facts

  • Anne Hathaway addressed conspiracy comments about her pregnancy bump on Instagram.
  • Kate Beckinsale was accused of having an eating disorder by commenters.
  • Jenna Ortega faced backlash for appearing too thin in an Esquire video.
  • Ariana Grande announced a retreat from public life due to criticism.
  • Research shows thin women make 6% more money than larger colleagues.
  • Being on a GLP-1 for 18 months increased unemployed women's chances of getting hired by 26.9%.
  • New CDC director Dr. Erica Schwartz promised abortion surveillance as 'absolutely a critical component'.
  • As of 2025, over 31 million women of reproductive age live in states that banned abortion.

Entities

Artists

  • Anne Hathaway
  • Kate Beckinsale
  • Jenna Ortega
  • Ariana Grande
  • Arabelle Sicardi
  • Rebecca Diamond
  • Dr. Erica Schwartz

Institutions

  • Vogue
  • Esquire
  • CDC
  • National Partnership for Women and Families
  • Dazed

Sources