TV host hits back over weight ‘bullying’

An overweight US TV news presenter has responded publicly to a viewer’s criticism of her figure, calling him a “bully” in a four-minute speech on air that has gone viral online.

Jennifer Livingston said she thought nothing of the email at first but then thought of her daughters who could take such criticism personally.

The Wisconsin anchorwoman for WKBT-TV did not identify the man, who wrote that he was surprised to see her physical condition had not improved for years. He also told her he hopes she doesn’t consider herself a suitable example for young people.

Story on #JenniferLivingstone and a viewer giving feedback on her weight. You gave her feedback and she returned it to him. Loves it.

— L (@yourgirllboo) October 3, 2012

The man who wrote the email, Kenneth Krause, insisted his emails had nothing to do with bullying.

He wrote that “obesity is one of the worst choices a person can make” and urged Livingston to “reconsider your responsibility to present and promote a healthy lifestyle”.

In her response, Ms Livingston, 37, acknowledged she was overweight but said the man’s words were cruel.

“To all of the children out there who feel lost, who are struggling with your weight, with the colour of your skin, your sexual preference, your disability, even the acne on your face, listen to me right now: Do not let your self-worth be defined by bullies,” she said.