Fans are fuming after a clip of David Foster calling his wife Katharine McPhee "fat" when they first met on the set of American Idol has recirculated.
In the video, re-shared on TikTok this week, the talented music power couple were seen sharing a joint performance on stage. As they reminisced on their relationship together, McPhee flashed a snap from back in 2006 when she was competing on season 5 of the ABC series which was when the pair first sparked their romance.
As McPhee displayed the photo to the crowd from her days on the show, she poked fun at her own appearance as she said: "You may not know we met 17, almost 18 years ago when I was a little chubby and cheerful contestant on American Idol." To which her husband remarked: "Oh, yeah — you were fat."
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McPhee was clearly taken aback by the comment but played it off as she replied: "I was a little chubby, OK? I was just young.” And while she attempted to make light of the situation, others online didn't share the same reaction. As the clip recirculated many were outraged her husband would say something so hurtful in front of a jam-packed audience.
In the comments of the video, one TikTok user wrote: "This made my heart hurt. This beautiful girl was NEVER fat. You don’t call your wife fat. As a joke or serious.” And another added: "That's so bad. Especially in front of so many people. I want to cry for her." While someone else said: "Those comments are so hurtful.
"Hearing from anyone let alone your partner. No one should comment on anyone's body 'joking' or not." And another fumed: "He’s revolting. I wonder what he says and how he treats her in private if he can be so bold and disrespectful in public.”
Many also brought up the fact that his comments come as she has previously opened up about her own struggles with an eating disorder. During an interview with ABC News, McPhee previously revealed that around 2005 when she auditioned for a spot on American Idol she was struggling with bulimia. At the time she admitted that her eating disorder was "really out of control" and that she later underwent treatment at an intensive inpatient program.
If you or someone you know is struggling with body image or eating concerns, the National Eating Disorders Association's toll-free and confidential helpline is available by phone or text at 1-800-931-2237 or by click-to-chat message at nationaleatingdisorders.org/helpline . For 24/7 crisis situations, text "NEDA" to 741-741.
If you're worried about your health or the health of somebody else, you can contact SEED eating disorder support service on 01482 718130 or on their website, Home - SEED | Eating Disorders Support Service % .
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