Olly Murs reacts to “very disappointing” coverage of his body transformation

Strong criticism followed British musician Olly Murs's recent remarks on the "very disappointing" media around his significant weight reduction. A popular survey on X.com revealed that although 42.6% of men appreciated their new, more muscular appearance. Just 7% of women did; many women preferred his old "dad bod" look. This followed his posting of side-by-side "before and after" photos after a 12-week diet and exercise program.

Olly Murs abandoned his usual silence to condemn the "disappointing" and "madness" coverage of his physique that had circulated throughout social feeds worldwide, TV panel shows, and newspapers.

Olly Murs reacts to coverage of his body transformation

A 40-year-old singer-songwriter, Olly Murs, posted a video on Instagram on April 21, 2025, showing the results of a demanding 12-week diet and exercise program he had created to be prepared for his upcoming tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Psychologist William Costello of X user reposted the change images, asking, "Which photo do you prefer?" The results revealed a considerable gender difference: 42.6% of males chose the muscular "after" image while just 7% of women did the same. Twenty-six point eight percent of women found the "before" (softer) image more attractive.

Several social media platforms and news outlets posted before and after photos of Olly Murs, with endless reactions from fans along with their unique captions. The reaction online seemed overwhelming to the point that Murs gave a reaction himself at last. On April 30, he attached a Daily Mail headline screenshot, writing:

“So, it’s very disappointing to see this kind of reporting! Big love to everyone who’s been kind and to anyone out there improving themselves and making adjustments to their wellbeing. Love to you all, keep it up! Ignore the noise!”

Earlier, on 29th April, a day before, he addressed his fans after a concert in Dublin and remarked:

“I don’t know if you guys have been on social media, but there’s loads of weird stuff being written about me, about my body and stuff. Absolutely madness. But anyway, moving on. Thank you for cheering me up.”

Mackenzie Pearson invented the phrase "dad bod" in 2015 to characterize a body type that works out sometimes but still likes a bit more freedom on weekends. Harvard University researchers in 2000 found that women preferred males 15 to 30 pounds less muscular than what men deemed ideal. Experts say some individuals prefer the "dad bod" over hyper-muscular definitions as it reflects qualities like stability, approachability, and comfort.

The argument reflects scholarly concepts on the "male gaze" that objectifies women and the "female gaze" that views individuals as full beings. Murs's transformation drew accidental notice to the difference in aesthetic criteria between the two perspectives.

Olly Murs's change and the "very disappointing" exposure he decries spotlight media focus on seeming minor incidents, the impact of internet polls, and the ongoing gender imbalance in beauty standards. Though the "dad bod" vs "ripped" debate will go on, Murs's call to ignore the clamor is a nice reminder that fitness journeys are private choices, not public forums.

Divya Burman is a journalist at Primetimer 

She has completed her graduation in English Literature, which fuelled her interest in writing. A curious learner, Divya isn't scared to move out of her comfort zone and reviews her work from a critical point of view.

Divya has multiple years of work experience, including at companies like TechWhoop and Vimana. She also worked as a programme facilitator at MyCaptain.

Divya is also fond of research and keeping herself up to date on the latest trends in the world of fashion. In her free time, she indulges in music and reading and loves to watch films.