Josh Gad, the actor renowned for voicing Olaf in the Frozen franchise, is candidly sharing his weight loss transformation, attributing much of his success to medication. During the January 27 episode of the Armchair Expert podcast, he revealed he's been using GLP-1 medication to shed 40 pounds.
"I’m on a GLP-1...this is the first time I’ve opened up about this," Gad stated. He explained how this medication has assuaged what's often termed psychological hunger—those cravings fueled more by the mind than the body's genuine need for sustenance. "It has suppressed, in a great way, the noise," he added, detailing how he used to wake up feeling hunger pains, which this medication effectively dampens.
The 43-year-old actor’s weight loss process hasn’t been without its challenges. "I lost 40 pounds on the first GLP-1 I tried but unfortunately had to change to a different medication after developing diverticulitis," he explained, noting the adjustment took some time. Thankfully, he has found efficacy with his new regimen, calling it "life-changing." Yet he has emphasized it shouldn't replace forming healthy relationships with food and exercise.
Gad has openly discussed the internal conflict he feels about using medication for weight loss. "Sometimes I feel like I’m cheating myself by doing this," he confessed. He’s aware of the societal perspectives on body image and the medication's role within them. "I know a lot of people who aren’t overweight like I am who are taking it, and then I feel like, ‘Okay I should be able to do this because I need it for health.’”
His wife, actress Ida Darvish, has shared her reservations about his weight loss approach. Gad reflected on her concerns, primarily around whether the medication might distract him from addressing the root causes of his weight gain. While he respects her opinions, Gad has underscored his priority of being healthy for his daughters, Ava, 14, and Isabella, 10. "My primary goal is, I want to be there for my kids. Everything else is bulls--t," he bravely stated, highlighting his family’s importance over industry expectations.
Even as he achieves his weight loss goals, Gad can't shake worries about how this might alter his career. He’s long held the title of the 'funny fat guy' and now finds himself pondering whether he can shift to being perceived as the 'funny skinny guy' or even the 'hot leading man.' "Can I be the hot leading man? I don’t know if people would accept me as those things," he asked, articulately capturing the struggle many people face when grappling with public identity and body changes.
Despite any doubts, Gad remains committed to his fitness regimens and the benefits they're bringing to his life. He emphasizes the need for balance, expressing the belief surrounding healthy living shouldn't be solely about weight but also encompasses mental well-being, exercise, and food relationships. This weight loss endeavor does not define him; rather, it's part of his broader aim of health and sustenance for himself and his family.
Gad's willingness to share such personal details adds to the conversation surrounding weight loss for health, mental wellness, and the societal expectations tied to physical appearance. His story resonates as it presents not just the triumphs but the struggles involved in recalibrations of identity—an experience many endure quietly. By bringing this dialogue to light, Gad is helping not only himself but countless others who may feel trapped by expectations.