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Melissa McCarthy’s husband, Ben Falcone, defends her after fans blast his wife’s size!👏 Find more information in the comments 👇
Melissa McCarthy has received severe backlash for her weight over the years.
Unbothered by criticism, she continues to extract sheer pride and joy from her roles as a loving wife and devoted mother.
Even after so many years, McCarthy’s beloved spouse, whom she has known for over three decades, deems himself fortunate to have her.
Born on August 26, 1970, in Plainfield, Illinois, U.S., Melissa McCarthy grew up on her family’s corn and soybean farm. She embarked on her entertainment journey as a stand-up comedian in New York City, gracing renowned venues such as Stand Up New York and The Improv.
McCarthy initially had minor roles in films and television before gaining recognition as Sookie St. James in the series “Gilmore Girls.” She then appeared in supporting roles in several TV shows before landing the lead role in the sitcom, “Mike & Molly.” The show garnered critical acclaim, leading to Emmy nominations and a win for McCarthy in 2011.
Melissa McCarthy attends Diane von Furstenberg with The Academy Museum Celebrates Female Oscars Nominees at Private Residence on February 21, 2019, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Following the popularity of “Mike & Molly,” McCarthy received more opportunities. In 2012, she bagged an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in the comedy film “Bridesmaids.”
They became friends upon completing their first class together.
Despite not fitting conventional Hollywood standards for leading actresses, McCarthy’s comedic talent propelled her to starring roles in movies. She portrayed an obnoxious scam artist in “Identity Thief” (2013) and a foul-mouthed Boston cop in the buddy comedy “The Heat” (2013) alongside Sandra Bullock.
McCarthy gained recognition for portraying Sean Spicer on “Saturday Night Live,” winning an Emmy Award. She showcased her versatility in films like “Life of the Party” and “The Happytime Murders.”
The “Ghostbusters” alum received widespread acclaim and secured her second Oscar nomination for her empathetic performance as disgraced celebrity biographer Lee Israel in “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”
Moreover, she joined the cast of “The Kitchen” and starred in “Superintelligence” in 2020. Her range as an actress and comedic talent has consistently garnered praise and made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Aside from her acting career, McCarthy ventured into the fashion industry by launching her own fashion line, “Seven7,” in 2015. While the collection was initially labeled as “plus size,” she disagreed with the notion that sizes 14 and above needed separate categorization.
The “Spy” actress aimed to challenge the fashion industry’s limited perspective by offering sizes ranging from four to 28 in her line. However, “Seven7” eventually closed down after a few years of operation.
Besides being slammed by the online community, McCarthy has received disapproving remarks from within the industry. New York Observer’s Rex Reed blasted her for her weight while giving her movie, “Identity Thief,” a negative review.
Reed allegedly referred to McCarthy as “tractor-sized,” a “screeching, humongous creep,” and a “female hippo.” He portrayed her career, which had encompassed winning an Emmy for “Mike & Molly” and receiving an Oscar nomination for “Bridesmaids,” as a case of “being obese and obnoxious with equal success.”
Unswayed by criticism, McCarthy has remained strong and steady, evident from her many public appearances, especially at award events and talk shows.
Back in 2015, the “St. Vincent” alum confidently showcased her 45 lbs weight loss as she sparkled in a sleek black ensemble, including a leather embellished jacket and form-fitting trousers.
Completing the polished look with strappy black heels, a black clutch, and bright red lipstick, she exuded confidence and elegance. McCarthy won the award for Favorite Comedic Movie Actress that night, among tough competition.
On another occasion, McCarthy acknowledged that weight discussions were an inevitable part of her public life. Reflecting on her past concerns, she questioned why she worried about her size when she was actually healthy and fit.
She expressed frustration with societal perceptions and emphasized the need to embrace diverse body types. When it came to her daughters, she prioritized protecting their self-esteem and advocated for body positivity.
McCarthy aimed to counter the damaging effects of unrealistic standards by promoting self-acceptance and emphasizing overall health.
Details about Melissa McCarthy’s Husband & Timeline of Their Relationship
McCarthy has known her husband, Ben Falcone, for nearly 33 years, and the pair have been blissfully wedded for 17 years. Falcone is an actor, comedian, and movie maker whose career began in comedy, which is how he crossed paths with his wife. Here’s a brief look at this sweet couple’s relationship timeline:
The 1990s: Meeting for the First Time
During an interview, McCarthy and Falcone shared that they had initially met in Illinois when she was a college freshman, and Falcone was in high school.
Falcone admitted to feeling intimidated by McCarthy back then, describing her as being very goth. He recalled how his friends had admired her unique style, wishing they could dress like her with their mothers’ approval.
1998: Crossing Paths at a Comedy Class
McCarthy and Falcone crossed paths once more when they both joined a writing class at “The Groundlings,” an improv theater in Los Angeles.
During an interview, McCarthy shared that she found Falcone intriguing after he performed a skit about an inmate who had a liking for his new roommate. She mentioned being immediately drawn to his uniqueness. They became friends upon completing their first class together.
May 2003: Sharing the Screen for the First Time
McCarthy and Falcone had their initial on-screen collaboration in the popular TV series “Gilmore Girls.” She played the memorable character Sookie St. James, Lorelai Gilmore’s closest friend and the inn’s chef where they both worked.
Falcone made a guest appearance on the episode titled “Say Goodnight, Gracie” during the show’s third season, allowing him and McCarthy to share the screen briefly.