Olly Murs has described the public scrutiny of his physique as “disappointing” and “absolute madness” following a surge of responses online and in the press to images showing his physical transformation before and after a dedicated fitness programme.
Users across social media and newspaper commentators have debated whether the British singer and presenter appeared better in his earlier or current form.
After performing to fans in Dublin on Tuesday, Murs addressed the situation in a video on his Instagram story, acknowledging it had been “a weird day”.
“I’m not sure if you’ve seen social media, but there’s a load of strange things being written about me, about my body and everything,” he shared. “Absolute madness.”
He added: “But regardless, thank you for lifting my spirits.”
On Wednesday, Murs posted an image of a Daily Mail article analysing his evolution from a “huggable dad bod” to a more defined physique.
The piece argued that, despite his dedication in the gym, women reportedly favoured his previous appearance.
In response, Murs wrote on Instagram: “Typically I wouldn’t address this, but I feel compelled given what I’ve seen. My personal journey earlier this year was for reasons unique to me, and sparking debate or dividing opinion was never my goal.”
“It’s truly disappointing to encounter coverage like this,” he continued.
He concluded by expressing appreciation for supporters and encouraging anyone pursuing self-improvement and wellbeing to “keep it up” and “ignore the noise”.
The discussion was fuelled by media coverage of an X poll, which indicated that while most male respondents thought Murs appeared better post-fitness regime, female respondents tended to prefer his earlier look.
The 40-year-old Essex native first rose to fame on The X Factor—eventually hosting the series—and went on to enjoy chart success with singles such as “Troublemaker,” “Dance With Me Tonight” and “Up”.
The singer-songwriter and television personality has also served as a judge on The Voice, participated in Soccer Aid, and currently co-hosts Heart Radio’s Saturday morning show with fellow celebrity Mark Wright.
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Originally from Denbighshire, the singer sold five million records with The Alarm and lived with cancer for over thirty years.