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

A Star-Studded Shift in Public Perception

Sports legends and screen icons are redefining the conversation around GLP-1 medications—drugs originally designed for diabetes and weight management—by sharing their personal journeys. Shaquille O’Neal, the 7-foot-1 NBA icon, has added his name to the growing list of high-profile users. At 54, the Hall of Famer isn’t slowing down. Between running a dunk league, endorsing Reebok, and pursuing a degree in criminology, his packed schedule demands peak performance. Zepbound, the GLP-1 drug he’s using, helps him manage obstructive sleep apnea—a condition marked by snoring, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

But this isn’t just about weight loss. Doctors are uncovering broader applications for these drugs, from reducing addiction risks to easing polycystic ovary syndrome and even improving sleep disorders. The conversation is evolving—no longer confined to shedding pounds, but expanding into holistic health solutions.

The Double-Edged Sword of Fame and Health

The rise of GLP-1 drugs has sparked a controversial trend: when fame and physical transformation collide. Critics argue that thinness, once praised in celebrities, now invites scrutiny. Social media has weaponized terms like "Ozempic face" and "Ozempic feet", framing side effects as flaws rather than trade-offs for better health. A Rice University study revealed a troubling bias: people judge GLP-1 users more harshly than those who lose weight naturally—even when the drugs treat serious conditions like sleep apnea.

Shaq is challenging this narrative. By speaking openly about his health journey, he hopes to normalize medical interventions and reduce stigma. His transparency could help others feel less alone in their struggles.

Yet, public disclosure comes at a cost. Tennis legend Serena Williams faced backlash after a Super Bowl ad showcased her 34-pound weight loss with the tagline “moving better on Ro”—a campaign that omitted her 23 Grand Slam titles. Fans took to comment sections, lamenting the shift from a symbol of strength to a weight-loss success story.

Beyond the Scale: The Complex Reality of Health

Experts warn that fixating on individual transformations—whether glorifying or condemning them—misses the bigger picture. Health is shaped by genetics, metabolism, and societal pressures, not just diet and exercise.

Mental health advocates caution that celebrating weight changes for appearance could undermine the body neutrality movement, which champions self-acceptance beyond physical changes. The message is clear: One-size-fits-all solutions rarely work. What works for a celebrity may not—and shouldn’t—define the standard for everyone.

The bottom line? Health is personal. And the conversation around GLP-1 drugs is only just beginning.