10 Questions With: Todd Masterson of @GayFatFriend
In the Venn diagram of “social media” and “insightful social commentary” sits comedian Todd Masterson. Todd is the creator of (and 6’7” tall body behind) the account GayFatFriend, which imagines what thirsty gays’ Instagram photos would look like if they had a fat friend crashing the party. Hint: it’s hilarious. But it’s also more than that - Todd is challenging what an “acceptable” body looks like in the gay community and addressing such issues as the commercialization of Pride.
I reached out to Todd to see if would participate in an interview (I’m a genuine FAN of his work!), and luckily for all of us, he said yes. So let’s dive in:
What is your favorite part of being big and/or tall?
I can see my house from here! Haha seriously tho, I love being taller than most people (6'7"). It's a great ice breaker and I can always see over crowds. I always know where I'm going!
What is the hardest part of being big and/or tall?
Pants. I can never find pants. It's also really hard to find cute clothes. A lot of stores still think fat and tall men don't wanna wear cute stuff! And almost everything I wear I have to special order online. A lot of brands love to say they're size inclusive and then only carry the big clothes online.
“FYI if you only carry the big clothes online, you’re not size inclusive.”
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I actually dress like a cartoon character already, so this is easy! My favorite outfit is my turquoise Chubbies short shorts, my giant pink sweatshirt from Old Navy, and a pair of TOMS (yes I still wear TOMS, I LOVE THE COLORSSSS) It makes me feel cute and it's the most comfortable outfit I own. Bury me in it PLEASE.
GayFatFriend and Friends
What is one fashion item every person should own?
A nice comfy pea coat or trench. A good coat can instantly dress up any outfit and they never go out of style. And they always have a ton of pockets! They're like a purse you can wear.
What are your go-to stores or sites for clothes?
I am currently the Mother of the Haus of Old Navy. Mainly because they make clothes that fit my giant body, but also their stuff is usually really cute. I love bright colors and bold patterns and they always deliver. I know fast fashion is a hot topic right now, but for me, a gigantic man, it's all I have access to.
What do you wish retailers would do differently?
I said it earlier, but I wish they would sell their larger clothing in stores. It's honestly so frustrating to see something you like and then told it only comes in your size online. That is not size inclusive and I think it's a cop out for brands. I also wish they'd make their bigger stuff cuter. So many brands want to dress their fat male presenting customers in beige and grey and black and we want COLOR. There's such a big market (no pun intended) for it and they're totally missing out.
What does being “body positive” mean to you?
I think body positivity is allowing all bodies to exist in any given space without it being a big deal. Don't reward people simply for being fit and don't criticize people for being fat. All people are different and allowed to exist in any body they choose and one isn't better than the other.
What is your biggest style regret?
Scene hair. Before I went bald, I flatironed my hair every single day. I looked like I was on my way to a My Chemical Romance concert all the time. Big yikes.
Who are your style icons?
My grandfather, for one. He had the best style. And he was a big man too, so I still have some of his things. Ultimately it's Brad Pitt. I think he looks good in everything he wears and he's always styled so well. I wanna be the fat Brad Pitt!
Masterson of GayFatFriend aka the fat Brad Pitt
And yes, if you’re paying attention you’ll see that in my excitement I only asked him nine questions instead of 10. What can I say? Always leave ‘em wanting more. Oh, and obviously follow Todd on Instagram!
