Melissa McCarthy Responds To Critic Who Called Her A ‘Hippo’: ‘I Felt Really Bad’ For Him

It’s been three months since a film critic lashed out against Melissa McCarthy, infamously describing the hilarious star as “a female hippo” (among other insults), and Melissa has finally spoken out.

In an interview with The New York Times, the actress — whose new movie, “The Heat,” hits theaters on June 28 – said her initial reaction to the hateful comments was “Really?” followed by, “Why would someone OK that?”

The scathing words were published as part of Rex Reed’s review of “Identity Thief” for The New York Observer, in which he also called Melissa “tractor-sized” – a move the actress said may have “crushed” her had it happened in her 20s.

Thankfully, the “Bridesmaids” star – a mother of two and Oscar nominee – said she didn’t let the incident get the best of her. In fact, she chose to see the bitter review as a reminder of everything she’s accomplished in recent years.

“I felt really bad for someone who is swimming in so much hate,” she said. “I just thought, that’s someone who’s in a really bad spot, and I am in such a happy spot. I laugh my head off every day with my husband and my kids who are mooning me and singing me songs.”

READ: ‘Bridesmaids’ & ‘The Heat’ Director Paul Feig Slams Critic Who Mocked Melissa McCarthy’s Weight

“The Heat” also stars Sandra Bullock, and features a host of familiar comedic faces including “Saturday Night Live” star Taran Killam, former “Mad TV” actor Michael McDonald, Marlon Wayans and Melissa’s husband (and “Bridesmaids” co-star), Ben Falcone.

— Erin O’Sullivan

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