John Goodman stuns in NYC with a 200-pound weight loss transformation at the Empire State Building, promoting Smurfs.
John Goodman left fans both amazed and worried on July 16, 2025, when he appeared at the Empire State Building in New York City to promote the rebooted animated movieSmurfs. The 73-year-old actor’s incredible 200-pound weight loss transformation was clearly visible and received admiration, but equally notable were his untidy hair, ill-fitting suit, and peculiar walking style, which quickly sparked online debate.
Goodman shared the iconic rooftop with fellow cast members Nick Offerman and Natasha Lyonne, promoting the film where he voices Papa Smurf. Digital creator Mickey Blank captured clips from the event, highlighting Goodman’s noticeably slimmer frame, dressed in a navy suit paired with a light blue shirt and tie.
Mixed Reactions to Goodman’s Style and Health
Though many praised Goodman for his achievement in shedding weight, numerous viewers expressed concern over his appearance and mobility. Comments on social media focused on his oversized clothing, untamed hair, and unusual gait, with some suggesting he lacked professional styling at the event. One observer said,
“I’m sad that he didn’t have a stylist, hair and makeup like all the other celebs have. His true self didn’t look bad it was the dressings they could have gotten him straightened right up [sic].”
Another urged,
“Needs to visit the tailor and have the suits adjusted [sic].”
and a third added,
“You look absolutely handsome and healthy and amazing but please get a smaller suit. You have worked so hard dnd you deserve the smaller sized suit [sic].”
Additional remarks echoed similar themes:
“He looks great but would look amazing with a suit that fit better and a cut [sic].”
and a simple, Suit and a haircut. Another comment suggested,
“Might be time to buy a new suit.”
Aside from his outfitting, some viewers also noticed changes in Goodman’s movement, with concerned fans asking:
Image of: John Goodman
“Two things…… what’s wrong with his gait (walk) and why with all his money can’t get buy a suit that fits [sic]?”
and
“He needs a suit that fits. Why is he walking so strange? I hope he is okay.”
Another blunt comment stated,
“He showed up looking dishevelled, needing a new tailor, haircut and knee replacements.”
The Journey Behind John Goodman’s Weight Loss Transformation
Goodman’s remarkable weight loss represents the culmination of a health journey spanning more than a decade, which he began in 2007 with the aid of trainer and health coach Mackie Shilstone. At his heaviest, the actor weighed 392 pounds, but it was not until 2023 that fans saw tangible results of his lifestyle changes, when he appeared dramatically slimmer at the 62nd Monte-Carlo TV Festival.
Throughout the years, Goodman has openly discussed his struggle with weight and the motivation behind his transformation. Speaking to People magazine in 2010, he reflected on how much time and energy unhealthy habits consumed. He said,
“I know it sounds sappy, but it was a waste,”
and added,
“It takes a lot of creative energy to sit on your [expletive] and figure out what you’re going to eat next … I wanted to live life better.”
At that time, Goodman had already shed 100 pounds after quitting alcohol and sugar and committing to a rigorous workout routine six days a week. His trainer then expressed excitement over Goodman’s progress:
“He remembers what it feels like to be extremely heavy and it’s something he doesn’t want again,”
revealing the actor’s determination to maintain his new path.
Obstacles and Determination in Losing Weight
Though Goodman made steady progress, his weight loss journey was far from linear. In 2016, during promotions for 10 Cloverfield Lane, he described to ABC News’ Peter Travers how he struggled with compulsive eating. He admitted,
“I just stopped eating all the time,”
explaining that he had been constantly eating and would mindlessly place food in his mouth.
This behavior he referred to as eating alcoholically, where he would lose large amounts of weight, 60 to 70 pounds over a few months, only to relapse by rewarding himself with a six-pack of beer, which led to regaining the pounds. However, Goodman found lasting resolve, motivated by the physical demands of acting and a growing dissatisfaction with his reflection. He confided,
“I just got tired, sick and tired of looking at myself. You’re shaving in the mirror and you don’t want to look at yourself. It gets dangerous,”
illustrating his emotional struggle and determination to maintain his health.
Upcoming Smurfs Premiere and Future Expectations
Goodman’s appearance at the Empire State Building was part of the promotional rollout for Smurfs, which is set to premiere on July 18, 2025, and also features Rihanna as the voice of Smurfette. While fans continue to celebrate his dramatic John Goodman weight loss transformation, the public conversation reveals ongoing worries about his overall wellbeing and presentation.
This moment underscores the complexity of health transformations, where weight loss alone does not guarantee comfort or confidence, especially as physical and cosmetic details draw as much attention as the achievement itself. Observers will likely watch closely to see how Goodman evolves in public appearances and whether his style and health stabilize in the near future.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are John Goodman and Bruce Willis still friends?
A. John Goodman and Bruce Willis have known each other since 1979. However, they didn’t work together until the action-comedy “Once Upon a Time in Venice.” The movie will be available in theaters and on video-on-demand starting Friday, June 16.
Q. Does John Goodman have any health problems?
A. Goodman experiences depression and believes it has worsened due to his previous drinking habits. He manages his condition by staying physically active.
Q. Is John Goodman a drinker?
A. One of the most admirable things about John Goodman is his openness about his struggle with alcoholism. He acknowledges it as part of his life, yet he is determined to overcome it.
Q. Does John Goodman have health problems?
A. John Goodman realized that being overweight was affecting his physical and mental well-being. He constantly felt tired and had joint pain, which made it hard to enjoy life.
