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A new AI filter known as the ‘Chubby’ filter has taken TikTok by storm, igniting substantial controversy. Many users are voicing concerns that it perpetuates negative body image issues.
Developed within the CapCut video-editing application, this filter alters users’ appearances to create an illusion of drastic weight gain. Although some participants find the trend humorous, a significant number of critics deem it inappropriate and offensive.
The TikTok challenge usually features a stark contrast between users’ unfiltered selves and their modified, “chubbier” versions after employing the filter.
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Participants often pair their visual transformation with humorous commentary about fitness routines or past meals, resulting in viral videos that rack up millions of views and frequently appear on the platform’s For You Pages.
Supporters of the filter argue that those criticising it are overreacting. One such defender commented, “It’s just a joke,” while another dismissively remarked, “It’s not that serious, snowflakes.”
AI Filter Criticized on TikTok
Nevertheless, the phenomenon has faced significant backlash, with many denouncing it as damaging. Comments such as “Why is body shaming still a thing in 2025?” highlight widespread frustration. Another user expressed their outrage by stating, “This is so insanely offensive and insensitive. People are literally turning a struggle or an insecurity into A TREND and describing it as ‘disgusting.’”
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Several TikTok creators have publicly opposed the filter and its widespread adoption. One user, stellasolodventures, addressed the issue while sharing a video of herself at the beach, captioning it with, “Nah, just my real life body that you’re taking the mick out of.”
Another creator, sadiebass16, conveyed her disillusionment by stating, “This is people’s reality, and you’re taking the p*ss out of it. Why have we gone back so many years? Are we going back to the 2000s?”
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Many detractors argue that this trend reinforces damaging stereotypes and insecurities, particularly for individuals who naturally conform to the exaggerated body types portrayed by the filter.
Despite the ongoing criticisms, the popularity of the ‘Chubby’ filter persists, alongside a so-called ‘Skinny’ filter, which offers a similarly altered portrayal of body images.
This isn’t the first instance of a viral filter drawing ire on TikTok. Previously, the ‘Bold Glamour’ filter faced backlash for allegedly encouraging skewed perceptions of body image, as highlighted by numerous creators.
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Source
www.dexerto.com