Shrill (2019–2021) on Hulu, based on Lindy West’s memoir, is arguably the most important text. Annie (Aidy Bryant) is a fat journalist who wants a career, a sex life, and respect. The show’s first scene involves her having awkward, real-feeling sex with a casual hookup (the excellent Lolly Adefope as her roommate is a bonus). Shrill dismantles the idea that a big girl must first lose weight to deserve love. In one stunning episode, Annie’s mother begs her to try a weight-loss program; Annie refuses, not out of denial, but out of a hard-won self-acceptance. Her eventual romance with a sweet, non-fetishizing man (Ryan) is tender and earned.

: Shows like Netflix’s One to Watch (inspired by the novel by Kate Stayman-London ) follow plus-size heroines navigating reality dating shows, directly challenging the bias that "big girls" are not romantic leads.

The rise of high-quality web sourcing in the late 2010s transformed how niche media was consumed. As internet speeds increased, the ability to stream and capture high-definition content allowed specialized genres to reach global audiences more effectively than traditional physical media. This evolution supported the growth of various independent media movements, ensuring that diverse perspectives and representations were accessible in professional, high-quality formats.

The algorithm rewarded them. Why? Because the thirst was real. Audiences were starving for content that normalized larger bodies in romantic contexts without the usual tropes of pity, shame, or "bravery."

The importance of diverse representation of women in media cannot be overstated. Women come from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and their stories and perspectives deserve to be represented.

The representation of women in media can have a significant impact on women's self-esteem, body image, and mental health. The constant bombardment of images of thin, beautiful women can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

driving the "Big Girls Need Love" movement.