The Skinny Comeback: Why Hollywood’s Body Trends Are Turning Dangerous

A new wave of ultra-thin celebrity images is sweeping Hollywood, sparking concern among experts who warn that the trend is already influencing young audiences.

Recent viral photos of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on the Wicked 2 set showed both stars appearing dramatically slimmer, fueling widespread discussion about the industry’s renewed appetite for extreme thinness.

Researchers say the return of “super-skinny” ideals is tied to shifting fashion cycles, the rise of weight-loss medications, and the decline of the body-positivity movement.

But the real danger lies in how quickly these trends spread online. Studies show that extreme dieting behaviors are highly susceptible to social contagion, especially on platforms like TikTok, where #SkinnyTok and “thinspo” content keep re-emerging despite bans.

Experts report a troubling rise in teen eating-disorder hospitalizations since the pandemic, noting that young people who are continually exposed to unrealistic beauty standards face greater risks.

As Hollywood’s visual landscape shifts once again, health professionals and parents warn that the effects extend far beyond red carpets. The growing pressure for thinness, paired with algorithm-driven exposure, may be shaping the mental and physical health of an entire generation.