Former Disney Performer Reveals Body Image Struggles Due to Casting Feedback

ORLANDO, Florida – A former Disney character performer has shared her personal experience with the company's casting process, alleging that strict appearance standards led to body image issues. Lauren Seeley, who portrayed characters like Anna and Rapunzel at Walt Disney World from 2016 to 2020, described a process known as "relooks," where performers' appearances are evaluated against character standards. Seeley stated that after gaining 10 to 15 pounds during college, she was informed by casting that her arms looked "full." This feedback, she explained, contributed to a prolonged fear of wearing sleeveless attire, a fear she is only now beginning to overcome after losing 30 pounds. "They basically were like, 'Your arms look full, so you need to be conscious of that,'" Seeley recounted in her video. She acknowledged that maintaining a specific appearance is part of the job, especially for characters with distinct silhouettes like Rapunzel, whose costume sleeves are not "forgiving." However, she emphasized the significant emotional toll such evaluations can take, suggesting that casting practices have contributed to body image struggles among some performers.

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