News Anchor Called Fat in Email, Responds on Live TV (VIDEO)
Unfortunately, one of the downsides to working in the media is that those who read, listen to, or watch your work know your name and maybe even what you look like – though they themselves can hide beneath a cloak of anonymity. One TV news anchor, Jennifer Livingston, came face to.. well, computer screen.. with this issue recently when she received a nasty email from a viewer who felt that he had the right to comment on her appearance.
The viewer, who admitted in the email that he rarely even watches her show, decided to call Jennifer out for being what he describes as “obese”.
“Obesity is one of the worst choices a person can make and one of the most dangerous habits to maintain,” he patronized.
He then suggested that by being overweight, Livingston is not acting as a good example for young girls, saying, “I leave you this note hoping that you’ll reconsider your responsibility as a local public personality to present and promote a healthy lifestyle.”
How very thoughtful of him.
After Livingston’s husband posted a copy of the email on Facebook and received an outpouring of support, Livingston decided to use the email and her position as a TV anchor – the same position that exposes her to hateful and unnecessary criticism – to take a stand against bullying.
She addressed the writer of the email and explained that his behavior was disrespectful and rude. Then, she called attention to the fact that October is National Bullying Awareness Month, and left a message for young people (the same ‘young people’ that she is apparently providing a bad example to) who are bullied about their weight.
“Do not let your self worth be defined by bullies. Learn from my experience that the cruel words of one are nothing compared to the shouts of many.”
Awesome.
