Actress Chrissy Metz recently shared an astonishing anecdote regarding her iconic role in This Is Us. During an interview on The Jamie Kern Lima Show, Metz recounted a conversation with the show’s creator, Dan Fogelman, who faced an unbelievable suggestion from a network executive during the show’s early development.
The executive asked, “Oh, wait, so the plus-size girl, she’s, like, how plus-size? Like Kate Winslet?” Fogelman was taken aback by the comment, emphasizing that Metz’s character, Kate Pearson, was designed to represent real women who struggle with weight issues throughout their lives. Metz reflected on Fogelman’s response, saying, “First of all, what are you saying? Second of all, no, this is a real woman who’s really dealt with weight issues and it’s plagued her entire life.”
The Importance of Kate Pearson
Metz portrayed Kate Pearson from the series’ inception to its conclusion, a role she holds dear. She revealed that Kate was loosely based on Fogelman’s sister, making the character’s authenticity crucial to the show’s message. “Anytime I think about Dan, it really makes me emotional,” she shared, praising his brilliance and deep understanding of human emotion.
More Read
Throughout its six seasons, This Is Us garnered critical acclaim for its nuanced character development, particularly in its portrayal of a plus-size woman as a fully realized character—a mother, wife, daughter, and sister. Metz’s performance earned her a Primetime Emmy and two Golden Globe nominations, establishing her as a trailblazer in representing body positivity on television.
Metz’s Journey to This Is Us
Before landing her major role in This Is Us, Metz had a challenging journey in the entertainment industry. She spent years working in minor roles on shows like Entourage and American Horror Story. “Everybody on the show had 10, 15, 20 years of acting experience. That was the first show I ever tested for,” she explained.
Feeling a deep connection to the character of Kate, Metz took the initiative to write a heartfelt letter to the executives at Fox and NBC. In her letter, she expressed her understanding of being marginalized and judged based on her appearance, sharing her excitement about the character’s potential impact. “I know what it’s like to be judged solely on the way I look, and I know what it’s like to have bigger dreams,” she conveyed.
Looking Forward
Since This Is Us wrapped up in 2022, Metz has made limited appearances in film and television. Recently, she was revealed as the Poodle Moth on season 11 of The Masked Singer. Looking ahead, she expressed interest in a This Is Us reunion movie, stating, “I think it would be cute…because all of us are so close and the show meant so much to all of us. I’m sure everybody would be up for it.”
With Metz’s impactful portrayal of Kate and the show’s groundbreaking approach to storytelling, This Is Us will always hold a special place in the hearts of viewers, while Metz continues to inspire many with her journey and resilience.
