Parents' Guide to

My Big Fat Fabulous Life

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Overweight dancer lives life, promotes positive body image.

TV TLC Reality TV 2015
My Big Fat Fabulous Life Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

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age 15+

Based on 5 parent reviews

Candace78
Candace78 Adult
January 28, 2020
age 18+

Vulgar

This young woman lacks class. I actually enjoyed her show initially because I could identify with her insecurities and admire her determination to live her best life. Now I see is not the best kind of role model for young girls. Her language is vulgar at times and some things in her life should remain private. I do wish Whitney well but I'm no longer a viewer.

This title has:

Too much swearing
1 person found this helpful.
feistylilthing
feistylilthing Adult
September 21, 2022
age 18+

Babs was in the shower when she had the breathing attack. This is classic copd. It happens to me all the time. If she's in a very warm area, she'll have problems breathing. Textbook C.O.P.D try breathing treatments before and after shower or bath. That's why all vitals were normal at hospital

See all 5 parent reviews

What's the Story?

MY BIG FAT FABULOUS LIFE is a reality show starring Whitney Way Thore, a radio producer who caught the attention of millions after her YouTube video, "Fat Girl Dancing," went viral. Thore, who was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in her twenties, is committed to being comfortable in her own skin despite her weight, which stands at 380 pounds. Now living at home with her parents to save money, the 30-year-old continues to dance with partner Todd Beasley, work, hang out with friends, date, and actively work on living a healthier life. She also dedicates her time to inspiring others to be comfortable with who they are, regardless of their size.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (5):
Kids say (1):

The series briefly highlights some of the challenges that come with living with PCOS, a common endocrine condition in women that leads to overproduction of testosterone, baldness, facial hair growth, and, in many cases, extreme weight gain that becomes very difficult to take off. But the show's entertainment value comes from Whitney herself, whose self-confidence and effusive personality make for lots of humorous moments, especially with her parents.

It's full of positive messages, as well as ideas that challenge common misperceptions about weight, health, and the notion that large individuals shouldn't be comfortable with their bodies. There also are moments when, despite her efforts, Whitney herself doesn't seem completely comfortable with her size. But overall, it's a show that encourages people to love and embrace who they are, regardless of their weight.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about some of the body-image-related issues raised here. What is fat and body shaming? Is there a stigma against overweight people in the U.S.?

  • Do women get judged more for their appearance than men? Talk to your kids about the pressure some women face to maintain a certain appearance.

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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