Body shaming, whether aimed at everyday people or celebrities, remains a persistent problem online.
Recently, award-winning rapper Cassper Nyovest became the latest target after his performance at the Scorpion Kings Live with Friends concert in August.
Instead of focusing on his stage presence, many social media users mocked his outfit and physique, with some comparing his attire to clothing from Milady’s, a South African retailer known for plus-size women’s fashion.
Nyovest admitted the comments stung.
“The comments over the weekend were harsh. I mean, you hurt my feelings a little bit, but sometimes that’s what you need, right? A little push,” he said in an Instagram video.
Rather than dwelling on the negativity, the rapper channelled it into action, announcing that he had begun training for his upcoming ‘Fill Up Toyota Stadium’ concert on 6 December.
“We’re three months from Fill Up, and I’ve officially started training. I was doing cardio all week. This time it’s a bit more fun because I’m playing tennis. Next week, I’ll be starting weight training,” he told fans.
This is not Nyovest’s first fitness journey.
In 2022, he documented his third weight-loss transformation, admitting it was the toughest yet.
“Mentally, I didn’t feel as strong, and I was demoralised. But I just kept waking up and going,” he reflected at the time.
The ‘Kusho Bani’ hitmaker also criticised the double standards in body shaming, pointing out that men are often mocked with little pushback.
“It is definitely a projection of how you feel about yourself. You don’t even know what I’m going through, but I’m going to take that, take the lemons, and turn them into lemonade,” he said.
Fans and fellow artists rallied behind him.
Rapper Priddy Ugly and music duo Major League DJz praised his resilience, while Instagram users questioned why body shaming appears more tolerated when directed at men.
Experts note that body shaming, regardless of gender, often reflects personal insecurity and can have long-term emotional and psychological effects.
For Nyovest, the criticism became fuel for change, but many others may not find such motivation.
As his training continues, Nyovest says he is prioritising health and fun.
His message:Weight management is personal and should be about well-being, not meeting unrealistic expectations. – IOL Lifestyle
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