Irish singer-songwriter CMAT said she feels deep sadness over body-shaming abuse she received after performing at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend [1, 2].
The incident highlights the persistent nature of online harassment and the specific vulnerability of public figures to weight-based attacks. As artists reach larger audiences through major festivals, the scale of social media scrutiny often intensifies.
The abuse followed her appearance at the event in Sunderland, United Kingdom [1, 4]. CMAT said on social media that the harassment focused on her weight [2, 5].
"I feel deep sadness over the body-shaming abuse I’ve received," CMAT said [4].
The singer expressed frustration over the repetitive nature of these attacks. She described the burden of having to repeatedly defend herself against such comments, while maintaining her public image.
"It is literally so boring for me, a gorgeous genius, to keep having to yap on about how horribly I am treated because of my weight," CMAT said [3].
Despite her professional success, the singer suggested a lack of systemic support or protection from the digital onslaught. The comments surfaced across various platforms, including Instagram, following the festival's conclusion [1].
"Nobody can protect me," CMAT said [3].
The singer's experience is not isolated, as many performers have reported similar patterns of abuse following high-profile televised or streamed appearances. The backlash often occurs independently of the quality of the performance, focusing instead on the artist's physical appearance.
“"I feel deep sadness over the body-shaming abuse I’ve received."”
This situation underscores the tension between the visibility provided by major broadcasting platforms like the BBC and the lack of safeguards for artists against targeted social media abuse. It reflects a broader cultural struggle where public figures are expected to navigate high-visibility roles while facing systemic body-shaming, suggesting that professional achievement does not insulate individuals from personal harassment.
