Why Vanessa Williams Starved Herself & Got 'Really Skinny' for 'Eraser' Film

Vanessa Williams is popularly recognized for her role as Lee Cullen in the famous action film, “Eraser.” The star revealed how much she had to sacrifice in order to be fit to play her character.

The veteran entertainer appeared on an interview with the daytime TV show, The Talk quite recently, and while there, she openly discussed her landing the role of Lee Cullen on the iconic American action film, “Eraser.”

The film, for the actors’ performances, its action sequences, and the fantastic visual effects, became a huge commercial success and despite being a 1996 release, it is one of Williams’ most recognized works in the film industry.

Very few, however, know just how much the actress and singer had to go through to get to play Lee Cullen. While speaking to the ladies of The Talk, Williams detailed how she was invited to come and read for the part alongside the lead star, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Williams was met with a rather brutal feedback when the filmmakers informed her that weight was going to be a significant issue. At the time, Williams who was new to the film industry was startled by the criticism directed at her weight.

“As a singer, it’s a matter of how well you sing, not if I can fit into the outfit. So, I wasn’t used to being judged by how skinny I was. I remember being asked by the producer, "Well, we’d like you to lose some weight.” – Williams

To the demands, the 56-year-old star honestly disclosed that she considered the easiest and fastest way possible – getting cosmetic surgery to remove fat. However, she silenced the thoughts and opted for an extreme diet and exercise plan.

"I literally went on a diet. I considered lipo, just to be able to be on screen. I lost a lot of weight. I did a lot of cardio. I did a lot of Pilates, and I haven't been that thin since. I got really skinny,” Williams animatedly said.

Albeit saddening the incident might have been for the youthful entertainer, it has done a lot to help Vanessa be more confident in her body image. While boldly declaring that she has never been as fat as that ever since then, the former beauty queen explained that no one can ever convince her to go on an extreme diet.

“I don't care what you say and, to quote the great Tyra Banks, if you say anything, you can kiss my fat a**!" – Williams

Williams also mentioned that she uses her past experiences to teach her children about body image issues. The famous entertainer is a mother of four grown children, and her youngest child is 19 years old.