Big names, big side effects: Celebrities and the GLP-1 debate

Sports stars and entertainers publicly sharing their experiences with GLP-1 medications have turned weight-loss drugs into dinner-table conversation. Shaq O’Neill recently joined the list of high-profile GLP-1 users. At 54, he manages a jam-packed schedule—running a dunk league, repping Reebok, studying criminology—a routine he keeps fueled by the drug Zepbound. Though famous for NBA dominance, his post-career focus is his health. He picked this medication after dealing with snoring, daytime drowsiness, and trouble focusing—classic signs of obstructive sleep apnea. What’s less talked about is that these drugs do more than manage weight or diabetes. Doctors are exploring their use in reducing risks around addiction, easing polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, and even easing sleep issues. That broader potential has shifted the conversation beyond just shedding pounds. Critics though worry about a growing trend where fame and health improvements blur into criticism. Some fans blast pictures of “unrecognizable” thin celebrities, accusing them of letting go of their old strong images.

Another side effect comes from social media buzzwords like “Ozempic face” or “Ozempic feet. ” These labels highlight the physical trade-offs some users face. A Rice University study found people judge GLP-1 users more harshly than those who slim down traditionally. The study showed bias sneaks in even when the drugs treat serious conditions like sleep apnea. Shaq wants to change that narrative by speaking openly about managing his health. His honesty might help others feel less alone. But public disclosure comes with backlash. Serena Williams has faced criticism for promoting a weight-loss drug without naming diabetes as the key reason. Her Super Bowl spot showed her 34-pound loss with the tagline “moving better on Ro, ” glossing over her nearly two dozen Grand Slam wins. Comment sections exploded with disappointment from fans who once saw her as a symbol of strength and fitness. Experts say the focus on individual bodies—whether praising change or shaming it—often misses the bigger picture. Genetics, metabolism, and societal pressures all shape health beyond simple diet and exercise. Mental health professionals warn that celebrating weight changes for appearance can harm the long fight for body neutrality. The bottom line? One approach rarely fits all.

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