James Corden criticises Hollywood's depiction of 'heavy people'

'I could never understand when I watch romantic comedies the notion that, for some reason, unattractive or heavy people don't fall in love,' talk show host says

James Corden (Getty)

Although we are beginning to see an increased variety of body types on television and in films, it still remains the case that fixed ideals lend themselves to central “normal” roles in Hollywood blockbusters while plus-size characters tend to be typecast in a comedic or kooky role.

James Corden has established himself as a success in the competitive arena of American late night television with The Late, Late Show. Thanks to viral segments such as Carpool Karaoke and Drop the Mic, he has transformed from being largely recognised as Gavin and Stacey’s lovable character Smithy to a wildly popular, emmy-nominated talk show host.

In spite of him relocating to Los Angeles and becoming a success story, Corden, who has openly discussed his fluctuating weight in the past, says Hollywood still has a way to go in its depictions of plus-size people.

“I could never understand when I watch romantic comedies the notion that for some reason unattractive or heavy people don’t fall in love,” he told Rolling Stone. “If they do, it’s in some off, kooky, roundabout way – and it’s not. It’s exactly the same.

“I met my wife she barely owned a television and worked for Save The Children. We sat down one night and we fell in love and that was it.”

Corden has been married to the Julia Carey for four years and the couple has two children, Max and Cary.

The 38-year-old reflected on his time at school and said as an overweight teen he took the approach to exude confidence in the hope of intimidating bullies away from teasing him

“If you’re big at school, you’ve got two choices,” he said. “You’re going to be a target. If you go to school and you’re me, you go, ‘Right, I’m just going to make myself a bigger target. My confidence, it will terrify them.’ That's how I felt in school. Inside, you’re terrified. But if you’re a bit funny, if you’re quicker than them, they won’t circle back on you again.”