Tyla Body-Shamed Over Her Weight After VMAs Appearance

South African Grammy Award-winning singer Tyla has faced body-shaming comments on social media following her appearance at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards.

Tyla attended the awards ceremony on Sunday, 27 September, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where she took on presenting duties alongside other stars at the highly anticipated event.

One of the singer’s standout moments came when she introduced BLACKPINK’s Lisa ahead of her performance. Tyla confidently welcomed the K-pop star to the stage, adding another memorable moment to her growing list of international appearances.

The singer also made headlines with her fashion choice for the evening. Tyla wore a blue snakeskin-print bra with an ultra-low-rise pencil skirt from Mowalola’s Spring/Summer 2027 collection. She completed the look with a matching teal choker and snakeskin-effect pointed-toe stiletto heels.

Tyla attends the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards. pic.twitter.com/zIqwCjgZ3T

— 21 (@21metgala) September 27, 2026

However, pictures of Tyla from the red carpet and during the event sparked cruel comments about her body on X and other social media platforms. Some users claimed that the singer had gained weight, with several focusing specifically on her waist.

@galactafentys commented, “her waist is already fading away…. now what is she gonna do since that was the only thing carrying her career.”

@goddessswomen commented, “i honestly can’t believe that tyla is already getting fat. her career is barely starting and she’s already looking like rihanna in the current days. somebody needs to tell her to lock in asap, cause this girl had the waist of a fucking goddess one year ago.”

Another user, @ThomasIsABarb, wrote, “That waist is getting bigger and bigger chi.”

The comments, however, did not go unanswered. Some social media users defended Tyla and questioned why so much attention was being placed on the singer’s body.

@pop1con commented, “Sorry, but Tyla being body shamed while being genuinely fit is kinda scary because it shows how far back we’re regressing when it comes to body image.”

@mikeynu_sa also came to Tyla’s defence, writing, “Reading these comments makes me realise how soulless people become when they are faceless.
This girl is also human, she’s not perfect. You guys find the smallest things to btch about but yet you’re not perfect either. Post a picture of your perfect body then comment.”

Tyla’s VMAs appearance comes as she continues to establish herself on the international music scene. While her fashion and performance moments attracted attention, the online conversation surrounding her body once again highlighted the scrutiny female celebrities can face over their appearance.