Dawn French issues body shaming plea after PM’s wife targeted online

26 Jul 2026 • 6:30 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Dawn French issues body shaming plea after PM’s wife targeted online

  • Dawn French has issued a strong plea urging people to "stop body shaming" in a video shared on Instagram.
  • Her comments appear to be in response to online criticism directed at Marie-France van Heel, the wife of new prime minister Andy Burnham.
  • Ms Van Heel's appearance at Buckingham Palace with her husband earlier this month sparked remarks about her dress and body, which have been described as "sexist" and "shameful".
  • French defended a woman, who she chose not to name, highlighting her intelligence, business experience, and courage, while condemning the "bullying".
  • Numerous famous women, including Paloma Faith, Suranne Jones, Vicky Pattinson, and Keeley Hawes, publicly supported French's stance.

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