Jennifer Livingston, TV Anchor, Slams Weight Critic On-Air (VIDEO)
Jennifer Livingston is used to living with criticism; she is an on-air anchor for WKBT in La Crosse, Wisconsin and can take the heat. However, one viewer crossed the line when he emailed Livingston to complain about her "physical condition." But Livingston did something most unusual and addressed her critic while on the air.
"I was surprised indeed to witness that your physical condition hasn't improved for many years," an email from a viewer read. "Surely you don't consider yourself a suitable example for this community's young people, girls in particular. Obesity is one of the worst choices a person can make … I leave you this note hoping that you'll reconsider your personal responsibility as a local public personality to present and promote a healthy lifestyle."
Livingston's husband, a fellow TV anchor, posted the email on Facebook. It quickly generated discussion about boundaries and encouraged Livingston to directly address the email's author. During her broadcast, Livingston spoke about bullying, which is highlighted during the month of October.
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"The truth is, I am overweight. But to the one person who wrote me that letter, do you think I don't know that? You don't know me ... so you know nothing about me but what you see on the outside, and I am much more than a number on a scale," Livingston said.
"To all of the children out there who feel lost, who are struggling with your weight, with the color 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. Learn form my experience, that the cruel words of one are nothing compared to the shouts of many," she continued.
Livingston has received a great deal of support from fans and the general public after her address.
Watch Livingston's broadcast here:
