Annie, the main character in Hulu’s newest comedy series “Shrill”, based on Lindy West’s memoir of the same name, is fat. No, not just “plus-size” or “bigger” — or any of the other, gentler words we try to use to describe fat women — she is fat. And that is perfectly okay.
The show follows Annie in her day-to-day life as she tackles work, family, and romance; all of which are things young female protagonists in TV have been tackling for years. This time, though, our protagonist’s body does not conform to our narrow ideals of beauty. This time, she’s fat. It’s both in-your-face and not, as Annie visibly struggles with body acceptance as a main plot point throughout the six episode of the series. In the quieter moments, though, there are nods to her experience as a fat woman that will only ring true to those who have lived it: the way she eats pre-packaged, “healthy” diet foods, the way her conversations with her mother take on a uncomfortable undertone once they quickly turn to her body and diet, and, in a much darker way, her desire to seek external validation that leads her into an unhealthy romantic relationship with a man.
Shrill’s nonchalant acceptance of its main character as fat is central to the story. For once, a fat character’s narrative is not shaped by her desire to not be fat, but rather is grounded in acceptance and self-love.
The pool party scene that takes place in episode four of the show is one that has resonated with viewers. Fat bodies are far too often excluded from beach or pool scenes in media — instead, it’s as if they should be forced to sit on the corner, pining after the bodies of those that are allowed in the center.
Once again, “Shrill” allows itself to break free of those constraints, giving their fat characters free reign to simply enjoy themselves at the pool. That, in and of itself, is revolutionary.
“Shrill” is emblematic of how television is slowly changing to both cater to and include bodies that exist outside of what has been always considered normal or acceptable. Being fat does not control Annie’s life, not in the way that mainstream media would have you believe it controls the lives of fat girls. She is able to find fulfillment in her adult life because she attempts to forge a path towards self-love and acceptance. We can all take a few notes from her on that.