Oprah Winfrey is facing renewed criticism as an old interview with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen has resurfaced, recorded in 2004 when the twins were just 17 years old and allegedly grappling with an eating disorder. The interview has sparked controversy as Oprah directly questioned the girls about the rumors and delved into the topic of their sizes. Mary-Kate, who was dealing with an eating disorder at the time, was asked by Oprah, “What size are you, by the way?” The question stunned both sisters, and Oprah, known for her own weight struggles, tried to backtrack, mentioning her own fixation on size.
Ashley came to Mary-Kate’s defense, acknowledging the media’s tendency to comment on their bodies. However, Oprah’s probing question has been deemed inappropriate, especially given the girls’ age and the sensitive nature of their circumstances. Shortly after the interview, Mary-Kate entered rehab for anorexia, shedding light on the potential insensitivity of Oprah’s questions.
Viewers have expressed shock and criticism, questioning the appropriateness of Oprah’s approach, especially considering the vulnerability of the Olsen twins at that point in their lives. The resurfaced interview adds to the ongoing cultural reckoning regarding the treatment of individuals, particularly young celebrities, by the media. Oprah has yet to respond to the renewed scrutiny stemming from this unearthed interview.