Justine Verheul, girlfriend of Off Campus star Antonio Cipriano, publicly shut down fans who body-shamed the actor over his weight following the Prime Video series’ May 2026 premiere. On May 19, 2026, Verheul replied to a fan comment suggesting Cipriano “bulk up” before season 2 filming, stating: “Maybe let’s not comment on people’s weight. All love though”.
Antonio Cipriano’s Girlfriend Justine Verheul Shuts Down Body-Shaming Comments
Verheul, 27, made her statement while sharing Instagram highlights from a Disney World trip on Tuesday, May 19. The comment thread included a fan expressing concern about Cipriano’s “gaunt face” and weight loss, warning he might face “a lot of hate in season 2” if he doesn’t gain weight since “Logan is supposed to be BIG”.
Verheul’s response directly addressed the Antonio Cipriano body shaming controversy, defending her boyfriend against unsolicited commentary about his appearance. She later posted on her Instagram Story that she was taking a “much needed social media break” following the incident.
What Sparked the Backlash: Fans Comment on Antonio Cipriano’s Weight
The controversy began after Off Campus premiered earlier in May 2026 on Prime Video. The show, adapted from Elle Kennedy’s bestselling hockey romance novel series, follows an elite college ice hockey team and their relationships.
A viral tweet highlighted Cipriano’s thin appearance and significant weight loss, prompting fans to express concern about his character John Logan’s portrayal. The fan comment specifically mentioned Logan’s character should be “LARGE” according to the source material.
This sparked the Antonio Cipriano weight comments Off Campus conversation across social media platforms, with fans debating whether the actor’s physical appearance matched the book character’s description.
Justine Verheul’s Powerful Response: “Maybe Let’s Not Comment on People’s Weight”
Verheul’s direct reply cut through the speculation: “Maybe let’s not comment on people’s weight. All love though”. Her measured response emphasized respect for personal boundaries while maintaining a respectful tone toward fans.
The performing artist, who choreographs high school theater productions and works in off-Broadway productions, has been Cipriano’s supportive partner since their relationship began. She accompanied him to the Off Campus premiere in May 2026, marking their first major public appearance as a couple.
Antonio Cipriano as John Logan in Off Campus: The Casting Debate
Cipriano, 26, plays John Logan in Off Campus, Garrett’s best friend who secretly harbors feelings for Garrett’s girlfriend Hannah. In the books, Logan is described as large, which fueled fan concerns about the casting choice.
The showrunner Louisa Levy and writers had significant freedom to expand characters beyond the book’s POV-driven narrative. Cipriano told Us Weekly that viewers get to “know Logan as a brother, as a teammate and as a best friend before he finds that love”.
Season 1 focused on Hannah and Garrett’s love story while setting up Logan and Grace (India Fowler) as the next central couple for future seasons. Cipriano expressed excitement about expanding Logan’s character arc, including a potential water tower scene from the books in season 2.
Antonio Cipriano’s Rise: From Broadway to Prime Video Star
Born: May 13, 2000, in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan
Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
Cipriano made his Broadway debut in 2019 playing Phoenix in Jagged Little Pill, which opened at the Broadhurst Theatre and won the Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. He represented Michigan at the 2017 National High School Musical Theater Awards (Jimmy Awards).
His television credits include:
In 2025, Cipriano co-founded Mighty Be Smart Productions with Verheul, offering masterclasses and staging live theatrical performances. He also released a 2025 single “Gets Me” written about his relationship with Verheul.
Antonio Cipriano and Justine Verheul Relationship Timeline
The couple has been open about their relationship on social media while maintaining privacy about intimate details. Verheul provided background vocals for Cipriano’s song “Runaways” and they frequently travel and perform duets together.
Cipriano was previously linked to fellow Broadway actor Reneé Rapp from 2019 to 2021 before beginning his relationship with Verheul.
FAQ
Q: Why are fans commenting on Antonio Cipriano’s weight?
A: Fans noticed Cipriano’s thin appearance in Off Campus and expressed concern via a viral tweet about his weight loss, noting that character John Logan should be “large” according to the book.
Q: What did Justine Verheul say about the body-shaming?
A: Verheul replied, “Maybe let’s not comment on people’s weight. All love though,” shutting down the commentary while maintaining respect for fans.
Q: How long have Antonio Cipriano and Justine Verheul been dating?
A: They’ve been dating since August 2023, making their relationship nearly three years as of May 2026.
Q: Is Antonio Cipriano playing John Logan in Off Campus season 2?
A: Yes, Cipriano is main cast for Off Campus (2026–present), and season 2 is expected to focus on Logan and Grace’s storyline.
Q: What is Justine Verheul’s profession?
A: Verheul is a performing artist, choreographer, director, and educator who directs middle and high school musicals and works in off-Broadway productions.
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