Reality TV
Weight Loss Brand Faces Backlash After Claiming They Can ‘Help Love Island USA’s Melanie Drop 15 Lbs’
A weight loss company called Start Willow is facing backlash after telling Love Island USA contestant Melanie Moreno they could help her lose weight.
The brand posted an image via Instagram Stories stating: “Melanie, you may not be able to drop that man, but we can help you drop 10-15lbs in 4 weeks. Call us, Start Willow.”
Melanie appeared on season 8 of the dating show, entering the house the first day and coming third with her partner, Sincere Rhea.
Fans have called the marketing “disgusting,” and whoever came up with the idea should lose their job. In response, Melanie posted a photo of herself to Instagram Stories eating pepperoni pizza.
“I get it’s their brand but who in their right mind thought targeting a public figure to have weight loss would be good.. it’s extremely gross,” wrote a social media user.
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Melanie had revealed on Love Island USA that she was previously a plus-size model and had walked for Miami Swim Week. Her family slammed Ozempic allegations, and her cousin defended her in a statement.
“Melanie is my little cousin, and I can tell you it is her!! And no Ozempic. She worked hard to get her current body!!! She wasn’t insecure when she was plus size, and she’s not insecure now. People are allowed to change, grow, and become healthier,” she said, via Page Six.
“Melanie has always had very high self-esteem, even when she was plus-size,” her sister wrote in a comment, per an Instagram video.
