FX’s “The New York Times Presents” returns with a look at America’s complicated relationship with weight loss, specifically focusing on the rise of Ozempic and similar GLP-1 drugs. In this episode, we’re likely to see more hand-wringing over societal pressures and the never-ending quest for the “perfect” body. It’s a topic ripe for examination.
The documentary will track the experiences of three individuals using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Expect personal stories, probably some triumphs, definitely some struggles, and possibly a montage of people staring wistfully at salads. It’s “The New York Times,” after all, so a certain level of gravitas is practically guaranteed.
But beyond the individual narratives, the episode seems set to tackle the larger cultural forces at play. How did we get to a point where a once-niche medication became a cultural phenomenon? The documentary will undoubtedly point a finger at diet culture, unrealistic beauty standards, and the multi-billion dollar industries that profit from our insecurities. Prepare for some pointed commentary on Instagram influencers, celebrity endorsements, and the pervasive message that thin equals happy and successful.
While the episode’s title might suggest a straightforward exploration of Ozempic, expect “The New York Times Presents” to venture into thornier territory. The series has a reputation for in-depth reporting, so it’s likely this episode will grapple with the ethical considerations surrounding these drugs, the potential long-term health effects, and the socioeconomic disparities in access to such treatments. Will there be easy answers? Probably not. Will it be thought-provoking? Almost certainly.
Tune in to “The New York Times Presents: Weight of the World” this Friday, November 22nd at 10:00 PM on FX.
