Gigi Hadid Hairspray Cover Sparks Thinness Debate

Gigi Hadid’s recent cover of “Hairspray” is making headlines for a rather striking reason: the guest performers are notably thin. The feature, presented by Vogue in their new video, “Gigi Hadid Can’t Stop the Beat,” raises questions about representation and body diversity in a narrative that historically highlights larger bodies.

In the original John Waters film and the subsequent Broadway show, “Hairspray” follows Tracy Turnblad, a teen whose size initially prevents her from joining her local dance show. Central to the story is the theme of solidarity among larger individuals and the broader fight for racial equality. Fast forward to Gigi’s Vogue cover, and we’re met with a musical tribute that, while stylish, has drawn criticism for its lack of inclusion.

Hadid, who has openly expressed her love for musical theater and revealed she played Amber Von Tussle at a young age, takes center stage, channeling the spirit of the beloved production. Styled to reflect Tracy’s iconic look, she performs alongside Cole Escola, who portrays Tracy’s mother, Edna. However, a noteworthy line from the show—celebrating joy in being larger—was omitted from his performance, possibly due to the absence of larger bodies among the cast.

The video showcases a total of 16 dancers and four guest stars, yet disappointingly, no one of a larger size is featured. In a tribute to a narrative focused on body image issues, the absence of diverse body representation stands out glaringly. While viewers have offered positive feedback, many have voiced concerns about the seeming disregard for the very message of inclusion and acceptance that “Hairspray” embodies.

This criticism points to a larger issue within the fashion and entertainment industries, where size discrimination continues to plague representation. Though this production is merely a tribute, the missed opportunity to celebrate body diversity calls into question the intent behind showcasing such a story. A different musical could have perhaps been a more fitting choice if the commitment to inclusivity wasn’t there. It’s a sobering reminder that we still navigate a landscape where ultra-thin ideals can overshadow meaningful representation.