Kat Dennings reveals that at just 12 years old, casting directors labeled her as ‘fat’ and ‘not pretty,’ describing the experience as ‘very harsh’ (Exclusive)
Kat Dennings reflects on the harsh criticism she received as a child in Hollywood, recalling how casting directors labeled her «not pretty enough» and «fat» when she was just 12 years old. Despite the negativity, Dennings never let it break her spirit.
In an exclusive conversation the 38-year-old *Shifting Gears* star discusses how she learned to brush off such harsh critiques early on in her career.
«The environment was very different back then,» she recalls, describing the industry as «very harsh» with little inclusivity. «There was a lot of extremely negative feedback, and people didn’t hold back.»
Dennings reflects on how casting directors could be «very cruel,» even when critiquing a child.
«It’s crazy to think about now,» she says, «How can anyone say that about a little kid? It’s insane.» She shares an example: «At 12, I’d go into auditions and after, my manager would tell me, ‘They thought you weren’t pretty enough and you’re fat.’»
Despite the tough comments, Dennings developed a strong resilience. «My attitude was, ‘I’ll show them,'» she explains. «Somehow, it didn’t break my spirit.»
She credits her parents for helping her stay grounded. «They’d say, ‘They’re idiots. Don’t listen to them,'» she adds. «And I thought, ‘They’re idiots, I’m not.'»
Dennings acknowledges that while the entertainment industry was «insane» in the past, it has become «much softer and kinder,» with progress in body positivity, inclusivity, and representation.
After years of auditions, she now stars in *Shifting Gears* alongside Tim Allen, playing Riley, who moves back in with her father, Matt. Before landing the role, Dennings felt lost, but after a friend’s suggestion, she received the call for the show the next day.
Working with Allen, whom she describes as «very kind,» was a surreal but positive experience. *Shifting Gears* airs Wednesdays on ABC.
