When Survival of the Thickest first hit our screens on July 13, 2023, it was like a refreshing breeze in the entertainment industry. Inspired by Michelle Buteau’s memoir, the series introduced us to Mavis Beaumont, a plus size Black woman navigating the complexities of life, love, and career in New York City. Now, we’re getting ready for Season 2!
If you don’t know Michelle already, get ready for some edgy conversations, blunt truths and tear-jerking laughs! Just so you can get a taste of her, in Glamour Magazine she touched on authentic representation of plus size women in media.
“I’m so tired of b*tches on TV and film always being portrayed like we should be so thankful somebody finds us attractive. I’m sorry, we still break your d*ck off. So back up!” said Buteau
Her character, Mavis, and her journey of self-discovery and empowerment struck a chord with many, making the show a standout in the comedy-drama genre.
How Survival of the Thickest is Changing the Game
Survival of the Thickest has significantly impacted the landscape of body positivity and representation in media. The series challenges traditional beauty standards by centering on Mavis Beaumont, a plus size Black woman navigating her personal and professional life with confidence and authenticity. This portrayal offers a refreshing departure from the often limited and stereotypical depictions of thicker people in mainstream media.
In Rolling Out, Actress Tasha Smith, who plays Marley, has spoken about the importance of this series.
“[It] celebrates individuals who have historically been marginalized, reminding them that they, too, are worthy of love, success, and self-acceptance.”
BuzzFeed highlights that the series “not only provides much-needed plus size representation but also showcases the joy, confidence, and sex appeal of women who are often overlooked in the industry.”
If you need some more numbers to get why we’re so hype, we got you! Survival of the Thickest has an IMDb user rating of 7.5/10 and holds a Rotten Tomatoes score of 80%, with critics praising its humor, charm, and refreshing perspective on plus-size narratives.
According to Parrot Analytics, the show also maintained 1.8 times the average TV show demand in the U.S., proving that audiences are hungry for content that reflects real-life body diversity.
The positive impact of seeing diverse bodies in the media cannot be overstated. The world got to see how we fell in love with Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty fashion shows. Lizzo pioneered her career in talent and self-love, and now we’re getting our Netflix fave back to binge! A Forbes study states that increased representation boosts self-esteem, improves mental health, and encourages viewers to embrace their authentic selves.
By prioritizing genuine representation and body positivity, Survival of the Thickest is more than just a TV show—it’s a cultural shift. It entertains while empowering its audience, proving that everyone deserves to see themselves reflected on screen.
And based on the stats? It’s clear that audiences are not just watching—they’re feeling seen.
Meet the Crew: Characters We Can’t Forget
Beyond Mavis, the series boasted a cast of memorable characters who added depth and flavor to the storyline:
- Khalil (Tone Bell): Mavis’s loyal friend, always ready with a witty remark and unwavering support.
- Marley (Tasha Smith): The fierce and fabulous confidante who brought both sass and wisdom.
- Luca (Marouane Zotti): The charming love interest who added layers to Mavis’s romantic escapades.
What’s Next: Season 2 Sneak Peek
Circle March 27, 2025, on your calendars because Mavis and her crew are back for more adventures! Season 2 promises to delve deeper into Mavis’s personal and professional life, with some exciting developments:
- Jet-Setting Journeys: Mavis takes her journey of self-discovery overseas, with scenes set in the picturesque locales of Italy.
- Fashion Forward: Our leading lady ventures into designing clothes for plus-size consumers, aiming to make high fashion accessible to all.
- Star-Studded Guest List: This season introduces guest stars like Anderson .Paak, Deon Cole, and Tika Sumpter, adding fresh dynamics to the storyline.
Like Mavis says in the trailer: “Thick girls, we ain’t just the moment, we the movement, honey!“
It offers a narrative where plus size individuals are not just side characters but are at the forefront, living vibrant and fulfilling lives. This shift is vital in promoting inclusivity and reshaping perceptions.
As we eagerly await the return of Mavis and her entourage, the question remains: Will you be tuning in? Join us in celebrating a series that not only entertains but also empowers. Let’s continue the conversation on body positivity, representation, and the importance of diverse storytelling.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, laughter, and inspiration. Survival of the Thickest is back, and we couldn’t be more excited!
For a sneak peek into Season 2, check out the official trailer below:
