Actor-comedian Jamie Lever, daughter of veteran comedian Johnny Lever, recently opened up about the harsh realities she faced growing up — from being body shamed to enduring colourist remarks and hateful online trolling. In a heartfelt interview with Hauterrfly, Jamie shared her journey of self-acceptance and confidence in an industry known for its rigid beauty standards.
“I Was Called a Witch Because of My Skin Tone”
Jamie candidly revealed the cruel comments she received about her complexion. “I get so many comments. Kaali hai (she’s dark), chudail lagti hai (she looks like a witch), chudail jaise hasti hai (she laughs like a witch), you are ugly, you won’t get work in the industry,” she recalled. Some messages even went as far as saying, “Tu marr kyu nahi jaati (why don’t you just die)?” and “Aisi shakal waali ladkiyon ko film nahi milti (girls who look like this don’t get films).”
Highlighting how deeply ingrained colourism is in Indian society, Jamie said, “Growing up, people would ask me to apply ubtans, turmeric masks — all kinds of remedies to become fair. Colourism is a major problem in our country.”
Battling Body Image Issues
In addition to facing discrimination over her skin tone, Jamie also spoke about growing up obese and developing insecurities about her body. “There was a phase when I used to cover up my body with long kurtas. Even my family asked me to cover my posterior because I have a bigger hip. I have a pear-shaped body, so what do I do about it?” she said.
She added that these comments led to feelings of shame and low self-esteem. “My body was an embarrassment for me, and it is only much later in life that I learnt how to own my body and my curves.”
Jamie also mentioned that her mother encouraged her to lose weight, knowing the kind of expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry. She took this positively and began working out, even posting her fitness videos online to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.
A Career Forged Through Resilience
Jamie Lever began her journey in entertainment with Comedy Circus Ke Mahabali in 2013. She made her Bollywood debut in 2015 with Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, and has since appeared in films like Housefull 4, Bhoot Police, Yaatris, and Crakk. Most recently, she was seen in the Telugu film Aa Okkati Adakku. Apart from her acting roles, Jamie is also widely appreciated for her spot-on celebrity mimicry videos on social media, which have earned her a massive fan following.
A Voice of Empowerment
Jamie’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and authenticity. By speaking out about issues like colourism and body shaming, she not only sheds light on the challenges faced by many women in India but also empowers others to embrace their true selves, unapologetically.
Sources By Agencies
