Pop sensation Kesha has taken a bold stand against online body shaming, expressing her pride in her body and resilience through years of public scrutiny. In a powerful message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on July 7, the 37-year-old artist addressed the negativity head-on, asserting her strength and self-love.
“I didn’t think in 2024 people still body-shamed,” Kesha began in her post. “But I am so proud of my body. She’s been through a lot. She’s torn her ACL on stage and finished the show. She’s held my f**king broken heart together.”
Kesha’s words resonated with many, as she openly discussed her journey with body image and self-acceptance. Accompanying her message, she shared two bikini photos showcasing her physique, symbolizing her confidence and defiance against body shamers. She added, “To those who think you’re shaming me, you’re actually making me feel very powerful. So, to you, I hope you one day feel whole enough to not tear other women down. In the meantime, hate me harder b**ch.”
The “We R Who We R” singer has been candid about her relationship with her body and her past struggles with an eating disorder. In a 2016 interview with the New York Times, Kesha revealed the severe impact of negative comments about her body, detailing how she nearly succumbed to the pressures of the industry. “Finally I was like, ‘F–k. This. S–t. F–k this s–t. I’m hungry!’ And I am so anxious that I feel like I’m going to explode from all the secrets,” she shared during a 2017 Rolling Stone profile.
Kesha’s anxiety and obsession with her appearance reached a breaking point, leading her to seek help and develop healthier coping mechanisms. In an August 2023 interview with Self, she described how therapy and new routines helped her manage her anxiety. “No one could have told me this 10 years ago, but … freedom from that obsession is there,” she said. “It takes work to get there. But sitting here knowing that I don’t count any calories, I don’t know what my pant size is and I don’t weigh myself is so beautiful.”
The pop star has now made it a priority to maintain her health, even while touring. “I always have three meal breaks, ’cause being in recovery, I need to have time to sit and have a meal,” she explained. “I have about 30 minutes before I go on stage where I meditate, stretch and do breathing exercises. People probably think I’m back there doing shots, and [my routine is] the most zen s–t you’ve ever seen.”
Kesha’s response to body shamers comes as she releases her new single “Joyride,” her first as an independent artist. This track, which dropped on Independence Day, July 4, marks a significant milestone in her career following her departure from her former recordand her lengthy legal battle with Dr. Luke. “I couldn’t have made it through without all of you. Now we joyride,” she wrote on X, celebrating the release.
The singer debuted her new single live at the Planet Pride Fest in Brooklyn, New York, on June 29, proclaiming her newfound freedom to her fans. Kesha’s journey and resilience continue to inspire many, as she embraces her body, her past, and her future as a free and empowered artist.