More than 114,000 people have signed a petition calling for Netflix to cancel "Insatiable." (Netflix)
LOS ANGELES – After more than 114,000 enraged fans petitioned on Change.org to have “Insatiable” canceled, claiming the show promotes fat-shaming, a Netflix executive is standing by the series.
Vice President of Original Series, Cindy Holland, rebutted the claims from fans and defended the streaming giant's series against petitioners on Sunday during the 2018 Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour at The Beverly Hilton.
“Lauren Goose, who is the creator felt very strongly about exploring these issues based on her own experiences, but in a satirical over the top way,” she told reporters.
“Ultimately, the message of the show is that what is most important is that you feel comfortable in your own self. Fat-shaming itself, that criticism, is embedded in the DNA of the show.”
Actress and singer Debby Ryan, who plays the role of Patty, also defended the program last week in a note posted on Twitter, saying she “cares deeply” about women’s bodies and how they are “shamed and policed in society.”
The show focuses on a teen who goes through a dramatic weight loss and looks for revenge against her bullies. (Netflix)
"Over the last few days I've seen how many voices are protective and fiercely outspoken about the themes that come to play in this story.”
She continued: "I was drawn to this show's willingness to go to real places about how difficult and scary it can be to move through a world in a body, whether you're being praised or criticized for its size, and what it feels like to pray to be ignored because it's easier than being seen"
"I hope fans will wait and watch the show before passing judgement."
The series focuses on Patty, who goes through a dramatic weight transformation and goes on a mission to get revenge against her bullies.
Ryan wears a fat suit at the start of the series before going through her weight loss. The character is punched in the face and taunted by her classmates because of her appearance.
Petition organizers said the show was toxic by promoting the bad diet culture and objectifying women’s bodies.
Fox News' Katherine Lam contributed to this report.
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