Comedian Michelle Buteau has become a familiar face on Netflix, known for her comedic brilliance and straight talk. From her role in Someone Great to Always Be My Maybe, and now as the host of The Circle, she consistently brings a unique and engaging perspective to her projects. In her latest endeavor, Survival of the Thickest, Buteau takes on a starring role as Mavis Beaumont, a plus-size stylist recovering from a painful breakup. The series, based on Buteau’s essay collection of the same name, follows Mavis as she navigates the challenges of starting over, breaking free from the confines of the “fat best friend” archetype.
Survival of the Thickest succeeds in giving Mavis room to make mistakes, a rare opportunity for a character like hers. Buteau’s portrayal showcases her range, moving beyond her iconic quick-witted remarks to reveal a more vulnerable side. While the show could have easily made Mavis impervious to her ex’s apologies or turned her into a stand-up comedian using her pain as material, it instead allows her to falter and struggle in her new life. This is a refreshing departure from the typical narrative surrounding Black women characters, especially one who is plus-size and in her late thirties. Mavis’s journey is a mix of triumphs and setbacks, demonstrating the complexities of rebuilding after heartbreak.
Survival of the Thickest tackles familiar territory, exploring the aftermath of a breakup, a theme seen in shows like New Girl and Grace and Frankie. However, what sets it apart is its attentiveness to Mavis’s relationship with her own body and how it is influenced by societal beauty standards. Even with her confidence, Mavis is not immune to the messaging that certain bodies are more desirable. The series cleverly addresses this through Mavis’s dialogue, highlighting her conflicting feelings about her appearance and the impact her partner’s actions have had on her self-worth.
The bond between Mavis and her friend Khalil, portrayed by Tone Bell, is a standout aspect of the series. Their friendship, which does not follow the typical romantic trajectory, is a refreshing dynamic to see on screen. Mavis also finds support and perspective from her pragmatic friend Marley, played brilliantly by Tasha Smith. Both characters provide valuable insights on dating and self-acceptance, adding depth to the narrative.
Throughout the season, Mavis relies on her styling career as both a financial and emotional anchor. Her passion for her work is evident in every scene, with Buteau delivering a performance infused with excitement and purpose. From working with a former supermodel to assisting Nicole Byer with a plus-size lingerie line, Mavis’s professional journey is engaging and relatable. It showcases her dedication to making people feel stylish and confident, particularly those who often feel overlooked in the fashion industry.
While Survival of the Thickest packs a lot into its eight episodes, some storylines can feel disjointed. The show occasionally struggles to maintain cohesion, diverting attention to unnecessary plotlines that detract from the main narrative. However, when the focus remains on Mavis’s balancing act and the challenges she faces, the series truly shines. At its core, Survival of the Thickest thrives on Buteau’s charisma and talent, making it a must-watch for fans of her work.
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