Back in 2007, Maxim magazine sparked widespread debate with its provocative 'Unsexiest Women' list. The feature, which targeted high-profile female celebrities, drew criticism for its harsh and often unfair assessments.
Who Made the List?
The rankings included well-known figures such as:
- Hillary Clinton – Criticised for her 'serious' demeanour
- Ellen DeGeneres – Mocked for her androgynous style
- Oprah Winfrey – Labelled as 'preachy'
- Britney Spears – Included due to her chaotic public image at the time
Why the Backlash?
The list was accused of promoting sexism and body-shaming, with critics arguing that it reduced women to superficial judgments. Many readers and commentators felt the feature was unnecessarily cruel and outdated.
Where Are They Now?
Interestingly, several women on the list have since thrived in their careers, proving that confidence and talent outlast fleeting magazine rankings. Ellen DeGeneres became a beloved talk show host, Oprah remains a media mogul, and Hillary Clinton nearly became U.S. President.
Looking back, the Maxim list serves as a reminder of how media standards have evolved—or in some cases, failed to.
