Beck Bennett Reflects on Weight Pressure During His Time on SNL

Beck Bennett, a former cast member of "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), has shared his experiences regarding pressure to lose weight during his tenure on the show. In a recent episode of Vulture’s “Good One” podcast, Bennett recounted that during his second season in 2014, he received multiple suggestions to lose weight, conveyed in various ways that he described as “sh–ty.” He emphasized that the discussions surrounding his weight were handled in ways that were “upsetting and frustrating,” which contributed to the challenges he faced during that period.

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

Bennett, who was part of SNL from 2013 to 2021, chose not to disclose the identities of those who addressed his weight, citing the controversial nature of such requests. He noted that the pressure to conform to certain physical standards is a reality in the entertainment industry, stating, “If I’m there to play these certain parts, I want to be able to be that person, to look like that person.”

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

Following his second season, Bennett was offered a role in a short film titled “How To Lose Weight In 4 Easy Steps!,” which motivated him to change his physique. He reported losing approximately 30 pounds in the process. Bennett also mentioned that he began seeing a therapist, which helped him stabilize his mental health during this transformative period.

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

As of now, SNL has not publicly commented on Bennett's claims regarding weight-related pressures during his time on the show. Bennett expressed gratitude for his time at SNL, reflecting on the positive experiences and relationships he formed over his eight-year tenure. He stated, “Love you, SNL. Gonna miss you so much,” in an Instagram post following his departure in September 2021.

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

While Bennett's reflections highlight personal challenges, they also raise broader questions about the culture of body image and weight expectations within the entertainment industry. Critics argue that such pressures can perpetuate harmful standards, affecting not only performers but also the audience's perception of body image.

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

• “I was told by many different people, in different ways — some sh–ty ways,” — Beck Bennett, Comedian

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

• “It’s like you want to be comfortable. You want to be confident,” — Beck Bennett, Comedian

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

• “Thank you for 8 years of remarkable people and incredible experiences that completely changed my life,” — Beck Bennett, Comedian

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways

Bennett's experiences shed light on the often unspoken pressures faced by performers in the entertainment industry, prompting discussions about body image and mental health in a high-stakes environment.

Beck Bennett claims ‘SNL’ told him to lose weight in ‘upsetting’ ways