Actor says Hollywood pressure fuelled his body dysmorphia and insecurity

EntertainmentHealth & Fitness
4 Feb 2026 • 9:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Actor Sam Claflin has revealed he struggled with body dysmorphia and insecurity during his early career, particularly concerning topless scenes.
  • Claflin, known for roles in Pirates of the Caribbean and The Hunger Games, recalled being asked to go shirtless unexpectedly for a film, causing him stress.
  • He admitted feeling pressure to achieve a six-pack physique due to Hollywood expectations, which contributed to his body dysmorphia.
  • Speaking on Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast, Claflin described his insecurity as an 'everyday struggle' and said he is 'massively impacted by what other people think'.
  • The NHS defines body dysmorphia as a mental health condition where individuals worry excessively about perceived flaws in their appearance, often unnoticeable to others.

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