As pop diva Britney Spears chanted in her hit song ‘Piece Of Me’: “I’m Mrs. she’s too big, now she’s too thin”; She knows what she’s talking about and so do all the other female celebrities in Hollywood. The question is — Are we aware of the impact a few pounds can have on a popstar’s career?

Whether they are actresses, singers, models or just popular for starring in a reality show, remarks about weight seem harsher and more personal when it comes to women in showbiz.

In 2009, singer-turned-fashion mogul Jessica Simpson had to face harsh criticism when a couple of snaps revealed she had gained weight. The sleazy headlines, pregnancy rumors and bad press prompted Jessica to do ‘The Price Of Beauty’, a show based on how a woman’s image is perceived differently depending on the country.

Pop superstars Kelly Clarkson and Mariah Carey also have problems escaping the clutches of media scrutiny. Breakdowns and career lows are often related to alcohol and drugs but also weight issues. In the case of Janet Jackson, it was not until she graced the cover of a magazine after shedding some pounds, that she officially returned to prominence.

In the time of self respect and anti-bullying campaigns, songs that talk about self esteem top the iTunes charts and tell tweens it is okay to look different, think different and ultimately feel different. But we wonder if Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez or P!nk would sell as many records without the slimming garments and air-brushing.

Some people perceive these messages as easy self-promotion and even though good-spirited tunes make everyone happy and get media attention as well, the fact that the most popular idols are telling you “you’re special” no matter what makes a huge difference.

Funny enough, singers who start out looking curvy seem to receive little criticism when it comes to their shape. The best selling artist of 2011 is not the omnipresent Katy Perry, not even the enchanting Taylor Swift but the talented Adele. Raw feelings and pure emotion that have connected with the whole world regardless of the artist’s figure.

The British songstress has proven you can look poised and fabulous and yet have a delish meal in between shows. Adele has appeared on the cover of the most prestigious magazines, flaunting her beauty while looking curvaceous. Would the media be so supportive had she started out looking skinny?

At the American Music Awards, held at the Nokia Theater on November 20th, Christina Aguilera showed up onstage to belt out her number one ‘Moves Likes Jagger’ alongside Maroon 5. Three days after the brilliant performance her style choice and her fuller image have absolutely out-shined her vocals once again.

I wonder if we should send chart-topper Cee-Lo Green, music legend Stevie Wonder and Hip-hop mogul Timbaland off to the Gym as well. What about some equality?

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