In a candid interview with The Guardian, singer and actor Reneé Rapp has revealed her ongoing battle with an eating disorder that was exacerbated during her time performing in Broadway’s “Mean Girls.” Rapp, who rose to fame for her portrayal of Regina George in the Tony-winning adaptation of the popular show, recently departed from HBO’s “Sex Lives of College Girls” to embark on her solo music career. As she navigates this new phase of her journey, Rapp reflects on her history of mental health struggles and opens up about her LGBTQ identity.
During her stint on Broadway, Rapp faced distressing experiences with her co-stars, who made hurtful comments about her body while she was already grappling with an eating disorder. She described how these experiences took a toll on her mental health, reaching a point where her parents had to intervene to convince her to leave the show. Despite her departure, Rapp’s struggles persisted, and she emphasized that eating disorders are ongoing challenges that require constant attention.
As she steps into the spotlight once again with her upcoming role reprisal and debut album release, Rapp’s parents remain concerned about her well-being given the pressures of the entertainment industry. Rapp acknowledges that the younger generation, especially LGBTQ individuals, are becoming more open about their experiences and identities, which is helping to break down societal barriers.
Reneé Rapp’s journey includes not only her battle with an eating disorder but also her struggles with mental health and embracing her LGBTQ identity. Her decision to be more outspoken and authentic reflects a shift in societal attitudes, as she aims to empower those who resonate with her experiences. Through her music, Rapp is unapologetically embracing her sexuality, and her recent single “Pretty Girls” and its accompanying queer music video directed by Cara Delevingne serve as a testament to her journey of self-discovery and self-expression.