AceShowbiz - Ashley Graham has openly criticized the rising use of weight-loss injections, calling the trend a “smack in the face” to women who have fought for body positivity. The plus-size model, known for breaking barriers in the fashion industry, described the growing reliance on such medications as “disheartening” in a recent interview.

In recent years, weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have gained popularity. While Ozempic is primarily approved for managing diabetes symptoms, Wegovy and Mounjaro have been licensed in the UK specifically to aid weight loss. Despite their medical roles, Ashley Graham believes these drugs are contributing to a negative shift in how body image is perceived, especially within the modeling industry.

The 38-year-old star, who became the first plus-size model to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated, expressed concern that the progress made toward body acceptance is now reversing. “It’s really disheartening,” she told Marie Claire. “There was a pendulum that swung that was so body acceptance, positivity, everybody be who they want to be. And now it’s going back this whole opposite way that feels like a smack in the face to the women who have felt like they’ve had a voice.”

Despite her criticism, Graham acknowledged the strides made for plus-size women in recent years, emphasizing that change is ongoing. “I’ve seen more movement for plus-size women than some people give the whole industry credit for,” she said. “It goes with the times—and GLP-1s are a time... I know that there are, and there’s gonna still be women who are considered plus size forever. This drug isn’t going to wipe out a whole statistic of women.”

While medication use for weight loss is increasing, Ashley Graham remains optimistic about the future of body positivity. She pointed out the influence of social media creators who promote self-love regardless of size. “Seeing that these girls, who were raised on social media at such a young age, are now coming in and they have a platform to say to the younger generation, ‘Be yourself, be who you want to be. If you have cellulite, who cares?’”

Continuing to champion inclusivity, Graham remains dedicated to advocating for women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. This commitment is reflected in her ongoing collaboration with JCPenney, which is releasing its third collection this year. She plays an integral role in shaping the brand’s vision to reach a broader market beyond a simple endorsement deal.

In addition to her business ventures, Ashley Graham is set to attend the prestigious Met Gala in New York, hosted by Vogue. The theme for this year’s gala, curated by Condé Nast’s Global Chief Content Officer and Artistic Director Dame Anna Wintour, is Costume Art. It coincides with the museum’s latest exhibition, showcasing approximately 400 outfits and artifacts spanning 5,000 years.

The event will be tightly secured with a strict no-phone policy to maintain exclusivity and secrecy. However, Graham will be part of the evening’s activities, supporting attendees throughout the night. The red carpet coverage will be available to watch online via Vogue’s livestream, hosted by Ashley Graham, La La Anthony, and Cara Delevingne, starting at 6 p.m. Emma Chamberlain will conduct interviews with guests during the event.

Ashley Graham’s comments highlight a critical conversation about the impact of weight loss trends on women’s self-image and the ongoing battle for true body positivity. Her perspective adds to the dialogue on how society views and values diverse body types amid evolving health and beauty standards.