‘You Look So Small,’ Users React to a Photo of Gabourey Sidibe’s Slimmer Figure – Before & After Weight Loss Pics

Sidibe’s weight-loss journey was shaped by years of struggles. In her memoir, “This Is Just My Face: Try Not to Stare,” featured in People magazine, the actress revealed that after a decade of unsuccessful attempts to lose weight naturally and being bullied for her looks, she opted for weight-loss surgery in May 2016, taking a significant step toward improving her health.

“My surgeon said they’d cut my stomach in half. This would limit my hunger and capacity to eat. My brain chemistry would change and I’d want to eat healthier. I’ll take it!” Sidibe wrote in her memoir.

She emphasized that the surgery wasn’t an easy fix but a necessary step in transforming her lifelong relationship with food, noting she couldn’t have achieved such results without it.

Sidibe’s decision to undergo laparoscopic bariatric surgery was driven by a desire to take control of her health after both she and her older brother were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. She admitted that the constant fear of complications, like losing her toes, played a significant role in her choice to prioritize her well-being.

Reflecting on her decision in an interview, the “Empire” alum shared that she delayed surgery because she was committed to losing weight naturally, even working with a trainer for years.

Despite her efforts, the results fell short, leading her to recognize that surgery wasn’t an easy way out but a necessary choice. After meeting with her doctor, she underwent the procedure just over a month later, acknowledging it was the right time to take this transformative step.

In another candid moment, Sidibe discussed her inclusion in People magazine’s World’s Most Beautiful list after her breakout role in “Precious.” While the honor was significant, she revealed the difficulty of unlearning years of negative perceptions about her appearance. “My beauty is like my own secret in this way,” she expressed, reflecting on her personal journey toward self-acceptance.

Sidibe’s journey to self-acceptance was shaped by early struggles with her appearance, depression, and bulimia, which she overcame through therapy. She explained that her decision to have surgery wasn’t about becoming beautiful but about improving her health and comfort. Now, she embraces her body and believes her beauty comes from within, regardless of her size.

Building on her journey to self-love, Sidibe shared that confidence is something she actively nurtures. Whether it’s wearing high heels, styling her hair, or embracing her intelligence, she finds strength in the little things that make her feel empowered.

Confidence, the New York native explained, isn’t permanent but requires daily reminders of her value, supported by her humor, friendships, and positive affirmations.

Sidibe attributes her beauty to her heritage and the qualities passed down from her parents. She admires her mother’s intelligence, talent, and self-assured nature, as well as her father’s resilience, wisdom, and creativity.

Proudly embracing her African-American roots, she views herself as a blend of their strengths and affirms that her beauty is rooted in her identity and heritage, not external validation.

Sidibe expressed frustration with people who comment on her body, assuming they care about her health more than she does. She emphasized that, as someone who has lived in her body her entire life, she cares deeply and has worked to overcome fear and reclaim her confidence, a journey she’s been committed to for years.

Since undergoing the procedure, the “Tower Heist” star admitted that her struggles with obsessing over food, weight, and her body persist, though she has learned to manage them better over time.

Reflecting on her progress, she said, “I still am remembering to have faith over fear because my decision is my decision, and it really only affects me.” Overcoming habits like frequent weighing, she now approaches her journey with greater trust and balance.

Sidibe’s post-surgery routine involves eating five small meals daily, relying on meal plans, and cooking more often. She regularly consults her nutritionist and uses apps to track her food intake.

She explained, “I tell her all the things I’m worried about,” emphasizing the importance of staying proactive in managing her health.

The celebrity maintains an active lifestyle by working out with a trainer several times a week, swimming laps, and using a tricycle both at home and on set.

She also tracks her activity with an Apple Watch to stay motivated. Reflecting on her progress, she shared, “I’m stronger, and I’m able to move more, and I’m not worried about losing my [expletive] toes anymore. That’s my life now.”

Sidibe approaches her weight and health journey with balance and determination, setting personal goals and tackling them one step at a time.

While the Hollywood star remains mindful of temptations like craft services and her love of cake, she’s learned to manage her choices.

She explained, “The weight I was, the goal weight, the size I wear, all that stuff — it’s got to stay with me because if too many people are involved, I’ll shut down, and I won’t get anything done.”

The public figure’s perspective on her body has shifted dramatically since her surgery and weight loss. Once viewing her body as an enemy, she now feels at peace and regrets not embracing self-love earlier. As she put it, “I wish I’d made the choice to love my body sooner. But I finally have.”

Since embracing her journey to self-love and health, Sidibe has inspired many, as reflected in the enthusiastic comments on a selfie she posted in March 2017. Her Instagram followers flooded the post with praise, expressing their admiration and excitement.

“You have lost so much weight. Good for you, mama!!” one user cheered. Another exclaimed, “Omg you look so small.” Fans continued to shower her with compliments, saying things like, “Yaaaaaas hunny! I really can’t get enough of your weight loss right now,” and “Wow! Gorgeous!!” One commenter even joked about her clothing size, asking for Sidibe to send along her old wardrobe, while another praised, “You look so fantastic, keep [it up].”

Sidibe’s life has taken a joyful turn as she embraces family life. She secretly married talent agent Brandon Frankel in 2021 after his proposal during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sharing their news, Frankel posted, “SURPRISE! I can finally call her my WIFE publicly!” Frankel, who leads the tour marketing and branding division at Tour Agency 33 & West, has been a supportive partner.

In February 2024, the couple announced they were expecting twins, sharing a heartwarming photo of Frankel cradling Sidibe’s baby bump. Later that year, they welcomed their children, Cooper and Maya.

By November 2024, Frankel proudly marked the twins’ first Halloween, sharing photos of them dressed as Cookie Monster and Elmo with the caption, “Cooper & Maya’s first Halloween!”

Later that month, he expressed his love for his family, writing, “The loves of my life. No matter how tough things get, or how crazy the world becomes, the way you all light up when you see me just warms my heart. I love you all the most,” alongside a sweet picture of Sidibe and their kids.

Gabourey Sidibe’s journey highlights her strength, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing change. From overcoming personal challenges to finding joy in family life, she continues to inspire with her courage and authenticity.