Oprah Winfrey’s ‘problematic’ 2004 interview with Olsen twins resurfaces

Oprah’s interview with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen resurfaces, sparking backlash over uncomfortable ‘size’ question.

Oprah Winfrey's 2004 interview with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen has resurfaced, drawing criticism for her uncomfortable questioning of the then-17-year-old actresses.

The interview took place when Mary-Kate was rumored to be struggling with an eating disorder, a battle that would later lead her to seek treatment for anorexia later that same year.

During the sit-down, Oprah, who was 50 at the time, addressed rumors about Mary-Kate’s health directly, saying, "I know a new rumor that has recently surfaced has really upset you, right?" When the twins hesitated, Oprah clarified, "You know, the one about eating." Ashley Olsen quickly responded, explaining that they tried not to engage with public opinions about their weight. 

Despite this, Oprah pushed forward, asking, "What size are you, by the way?" Both sisters appeared taken aback, with Ashley replying, "Size?" Mary-Kate explained that they had always been "petite," but Oprah, who has spoken publicly about her own struggles with weight, responded sarcastically, "Oh, that's so interesting!" The audience laughed, while the twins attempted to smile along.

WHAT WE ARE NOT GOING TO DO IS DISCUSS HOW PROBLEMATIC #Oprah IS WITHOUT BRINGING UP THIS VIDEO / they were 18 at the time.. #expose #Oprah asking the olsen twins about their size #marykate & #ashly pic.twitter.com/K8kZh3x0Gd

— Japheth (@fjpanama97) April 28, 2020

Later that year, Mary-Kate checked into a rehabilitation center for six weeks to seek treatment for anorexia, making Oprah's comments even more uncomfortable in hindsight. The interview, which seemed to trivialize the twins' struggles, has sparked backlash from modern viewers. Many have labeled the exchange as "uncomfortable," with some users criticizing Oprah for asking about the twins' size despite knowing the rumors surrounding Mary-Kate’s health.

While the twins’ publicist had noted that they understood the scrutiny that came with their fame, viewers now find the line of questioning inappropriate and invasive. Oprah, who has been open about her own weight struggles, later became a spokesperson for Weight Watchers (now WW), investing in the company in 2015. She also left the board in February 2024 after embracing weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.

The resurfaced interview serves as a reminder of how celebrity culture often crosses personal boundaries, especially when it comes to issues like body image.