The New York Observer's film critic Rex Reed had some harsh words for the movie Identity Thief which was released on Friday. The film stars Jason Bateman as Sandy Patterson a man who has his identity stolen by Melissa McCarthy's character Diana. Patterson attempts to track down Diana who tries to escape his clutches.
Reed panned the film but also attacked Melissa McCarthy by calling her a "hippo", "obese" and "tractor-sized". Reed also called McCarthy, "a gimmick comedian who has devoted her short career to being obese and obnoxious with equal success."
Fans of McCarthy took to twitter to post their own comments on Reed's criticism. Many found Reed's comments absolutely appalling and mean-spirited.
Judd Apatow, who produced Bridesmaids which McCarthy starred in, also took to Twitter and tweeted: @DavidPoland I thought [Reed] died in 1978. Seriously. Is he the same guy or is it like Dear Abbie and someone else took over using same name?
McCarthy who has always had issues with her weight commented on her size in an interview with Good Housekeeping last year. McCarthy stated: "It's something I'm always working on." The mother of two also talked about problems that came with being a new mother by stating, "You need to give yourself a break to get your body working again."
There has yet to be any response from McCarthy on Reed's comments but fans have definitely showed their support for her.