Fans think John Goodman, 73, looked healthier before losing 200 pounds as he flaunted his slim look on the red carpet.
John Goodman made a memorable appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of “The Smurfs Movie” on Sunday, July 13, 2025, and fans couldn’t get enough of it. The talk was about the actor who voiced Papa Smurf, not the film itself.
The renowned actor appeared radically different after reportedly losing 200 pounds, eliciting admiration and astonishment from admirers as he posed for photos in a dark blue suit. Goodman, who has been in the public eye for decades thanks to parts in “Roseanne,” “The Big Lebowski,” and, most recently, “The Righteous Gemstones,” has been on a gradual and steady health journey.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, he stated that he had shed almost 200 pounds. According to him, the weight loss is the consequence of long-term lifestyle adjustments such as giving up alcohol, limiting his meals, and keeping to regular workouts.
Photos from the premiere spread rapidly on social media, as did views. People Magazine’s Instagram picture received a rush of comments from followers.
In the second photo, he appears completely different. Younger. He needs to wear a better suit, though!!! [sic],” one Instagram user wrote. Another person offered a more balanced perspective, saying, “I’m glad he lost weight, but I think he lost a little too much.” If he enjoys it and is healthy, that’s excellent. ❤️ [sic]” And one netizen commented, “He looks younger.”
However, not everyone was convinced. While some admirers praised Goodman’s metamorphosis, others were less convinced. Fox News shared the premiere photographs on Facebook, eliciting a mixed response.
“Looked healthier when he was bigger,” one individual said. “I would never have recognized him,” another said. Some people were wistful for his prior look, noting, “Honestly, he looked better with more weight on him.”
The similar attitude was expressed in the comments on Just Jared’s Facebook page, with one reader writing, “I am very happy that he has lost all his weight, but I think John is the kind of person who looks healthier when he has a tiny bit more weight on him.”
“Doesn’t look like him,” another person stated simply. Another reader stated, “He sadly looks about 20 years older now, but I’m sure he feels better,” while another concluded, “He looks healthier but not as huggable.”
Despite the conflicting reviews, it’s evident that John Goodman remains very much himself, although in a smaller frame. With his career booming, the icon is unlikely to slow down any time soon. Whether they loved the “old Goodman” or the “new Goodman,” most believe that what matters most is that he is happy and healthy.