A new conflict is brewing on Spanish Instagram: fans of curvy influencers who have chosen to lose weight are voicing their disappointment. Communities that once championed support and body positivity are now filled with reproaches and even accusations of betrayal. Women who once inspired others to embrace themselves now find themselves having to justify their changing appearance. Questions about whether Ozempic or other drugs were used are quickly replaced by direct accusations: ‘You’re no longer one of us.’
The strongest reactions come from those who have spent years fighting for self-acceptance. For many curvy influencers, losing weight becomes not just a personal decision but a test of their bond with their audience. They face tough questions: Why did you decide to change, have you betrayed body positivity ideals, are you now ashamed of your former body?
The dilemma of change
Public figures who have built their careers on embracing unconventional body shapes find themselves trapped by expectations. On the one hand, there’s the desire to take care of one’s health and well-being; on the other, the fear of losing trust and support from followers. Some, like Canary Islands Carnival Queen contestant Ceci Wallace, openly talk about training and the need to build muscle mass to compete in shows. Others, like María Rodriguez, face a wave of comments: ‘You’ve become too thin, why are you hiding how you lost weight?’
Comments on posts range from messages of support to open discontent. Some demand explanations, while others remind: “Every woman is beautiful in her own body, no matter how much she weighs.” But even these words do not always quell the wave of negativity. It seems that for some of the curvy influencers’ audience, changes in body shape are seen as a personal defeat or even a betrayal of shared values.
Psychological pressure
For public figures, weight loss becomes not only a physical test, but a psychological one as well. Influencers are forced to explain every change, justifying choices that concern only themselves. For example, Ruth Werga, who is not part of the curvy community, admitted she receives hundreds of messages asking about her weight loss. In the end, she had to reveal personal family matters to stop the flow of speculation.
Marta Caballero, known for her crime story videos, also faced the need to explain every detail of her transformation. After a minor procedure to remove fat from her chin, she admitted she prepares in advance for criticism and feels pressure from her followers. A psychologist and nutritionist became an integral part of her journey to a new body, but even that did not free her from having to explain herself.
Followers’ reaction
Disappointment is increasingly voiced in the comments under posts by former curvy stars. Some write, “You’re no longer a role model for us,” while others demand a detailed report on how they lost weight. Yet there are those who support the changes, reminding everyone: “No one is obliged to stay the same weight for someone else’s sake.”
The issue goes beyond just weight discussions. In a society where beauty standards shift every season, women become hostages to other people’s expectations. Control, criticism, and even insults are all part of public life for influencers who choose to change. But should anyone have to justify their personal choices?
Personal boundaries
The question of why someone else’s body triggers so many emotions remains unanswered. For many women, criticizing influencers becomes a way to vent their own insecurities and dissatisfaction. But no public figure is obligated to meet the expectations of every follower. Their lives are not a contract for eternal loyalty to a certain image.
Still, the wave of negativity doesn’t subside. Every change in appearance becomes a topic of discussion and sometimes even harassment. In this context, support and understanding from part of the audience are especially valuable. A like, a kind comment, or a subscription is the best response to the changes happening in someone else’s life.
RUSSPAIN reminds that María Rodríguez, known as Pretty and Olé, is one of the most influential figures in Spain’s body positivity movement. Her blog has inspired thousands of women across the country to embrace themselves and not fear change. Canary Islands influencer Ceci Wallace became famous for her participation in carnivals and her strong stance on self-esteem issues. Marta Caballero is a popular blogger who shares crime stories and personal transformations. All of them continue to shape public opinion despite criticism and pressure.
