James Corden responds to Bill Maher’s comments on weight: ‘Fat-shaming never went anywhere’

'Fat-shaming is just bullying. And bullying only makes the problem worse'

James Corden has condemned comments made by Bill Maher about fat-shaming, including the affirmation that it "needs to make a comeback".

On Thursday, Corden released a clip on YouTube from The Late Late Show with James Corden in which he addressed the derogatory remarks made by Maher last week.

While speaking on Real Time with Bill Maher, the comedian and political commentator stated: "Being fat isn't a birth defect. Nobody comes out of the womb needing to buy two seats on the airplane."

Maher also said that in his opinion, fat-shaming "doesn't need to end", adding that "some amount of shame is good".

Corden issued a chastising response to Maher's comments, stating that fat-shaming "never went anywhere".

"I mean, ask literally any fat person," Corden said. "We are reminded of it all the time."

Corden continued, explaining that there is a "common and insulting misconception that fat people are stupid and lazy".

The 41-year-old explained that he has struggled with weight management throughout his life and has been "off and on diets" on a regular basis.

"Here's the thing – we're not all as lucky as Bill Maher. We don't all have a sense of superiority that burns 35,000 calories a day," Corden said.

The Cats actor added that while he believes that Maher thinks he is offering "tough love" to people who are overweight, he is in fact "working against his own cause".

"It is proven that fat-shaming only does one thing – it makes people feel ashamed," Corden asserted.

"And shame leads to depression, anxiety and self-destructive behaviour. Self-destructive behaviour like over-eating."

Corden went on to explain the complexities of the obesity crisis, outlining how childhood obesity is linked to growing up in poverty.

The Into The Woods star added that genetics can also increase a person's risk of becoming overweight.

"Until we make healthy food and healthcare more accessible and we properly educate people on nutrition and exercise, maybe we can hold back on the whole 'call fat people virgins until they lose weight' strategy," he said.

Corden concluded his segment with a direct message to Maher.

"Bill, please hear me when I say this," Corden said. "While you're encouraging people to think about what goes into their mouths, just think a little harder about what comes out of yours."

Several Twitter users praised Corden for taking a stand against Maher's stance on fat-shaming.

"This is absolutely brilliant and I love you for it. Thank you for using your platform for this," one person tweeted.

"Bravo James, well said. You reminded us that fat-shaming is bullying and bullying is not OK," another commented.

"Bullies have to be called out, and you handled the whole thing with great sensitivity."