The Tragic Real-Life Story Of Cass Elliot

A 1941 article confirmed that slow metabolism or hormonal deficiency can contribute to "obesity" in children. Cass Elliot herself once revealed, "I've been fat since I was seven, and being fat sets you apart," quotes The Guardian. Notable is that her parents worked at an ice cream fountain, according to the 1950 census. They also loved opera, and Elliot's mother played piano. Growing up, Elliot took piano lessons and learned to play the guitar, says Encyclopedia. In high school, she sang in the choir and also appeared in the school's theater productions.

After high school, Cass Elliot auditioned for parts in New York's Broadway shows. It was after she lost a part to another budding star, Barbara Streisand, that Elliot decided to pursue a singing career, according to Bustle. Wherever she was, Elliot conducted herself with style. "She was overweight, but she carried it off like she was a beauty queen," her former manager, Bobby Roberts, once said (per Rolling Stone). Yet Elliot was obviously uncomfortable. In 1969, she wrote an article for Good Housekeeping (via Hillstock), explaining that her weight "was an excuse so that I wouldn't have to compete with other women."

If you are struggling with an eating disorder, or know someone who is, help is available. Visit the National Eating Disorders Association website or contact NEDA's Live Helpline at 1-800-931-2237. You can also receive 24/7 Crisis Support via text (send NEDA to 741-741).

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