UPDATE: Rosie O’Donnell is speaking out against comedian Jay Leno after viewing Netflix’s explosive docuseries, “Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser.” O’Donnell labeled Leno a “mean a——” for his treatment of former contestant Tracey Yukich, igniting a wave of backlash on social media.
In a fiery Instagram post on Monday, O’Donnell criticized Leno’s actions during Yukich’s appearance on “The Tonight Show,” where he unflinchingly read death threats directed at her. “Jay Leno is a mean a—— #biggestloserdocumentary,” O’Donnell wrote alongside images from the docuseries, which highlights the darker aspects of the reality show.
Yukich, who participated in the eighth season of “The Biggest Loser” in 2009, detailed a near-fatal experience during a grueling challenge. “I don’t remember a lot. I remember hearing the helicopter. I just felt like I was floating… I knew, I knew I died that day,” she recalled. Her emotional testimony sheds light on the intense pressure contestants faced on the show, which ran from 2004 to 2016 before moving to the USA Network.
O’Donnell didn’t stop at Leno; she also called out former trainer Bob Harper for his comments in the docuseries. In a separate post, she expressed disbelief over Harper’s assertion that he stands by his actions on the show. “Ok now Bob Harper – can u not say I’M SORRY – seriously- so hurtful- so cruel – come on Bob – #biggestLOSERdoc @netflixuk,” she stated, further amplifying the conversation around the docuseries.
Harper defended himself, claiming he never “put anyone in harm’s way” during his time on “The Biggest Loser.” The Post has reached out to both Leno and Harper for official comments.
“Fit for TV” dives deep into the competition’s controversial weight-loss methods, revealing how contestants were pressured to shed pounds rapidly to remain in the game. Yukich opened up about her struggles, admitting she initially blamed herself for her medical emergency during the competition due to her weight.
The intense scrutiny around “The Biggest Loser” continues to evoke strong emotions among former contestants, as the public grapples with the implications of reality television on mental and physical health.
As viewers tune in to “Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser,” response from the entertainment community and beyond is expected to grow. This story is developing, and further reactions from O’Donnell, Leno, and Harper are anticipated as the docuseries gains traction on social media.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding situation.