I'm so sick of fat opera singers As I'm sure you all know, the stereotype says that opera singers are fat, and sadly this is far too often the truth. I'm so sick of seeing things like this on stage. Like a single swan would be enough to pull him? It is often said that you have to be fat to become a great opera singer. I don't know how this myth started but it's no mystery why the fats use it as an excuse.  Here are some of the greatest singers today, proof that you do not have to be fat: Anna Netrebko - one of the best sopranos Joyce DiDonato - my favorite mezzo Simon Keenlyside - not THE greatest voice, but his acting makes him one of the most convincing singers today. Being able to actually move around on stage helps.  Jonas Kaufmann - the only proof you really need. Kaufmann is the best singer in the world right now.. He is a dramatic tenor/heldentenor which means that he sings the roles that requires the most power and stamina, abilities that are usually associated with being fat.  I am a master at suspension of disbelief (you kind of have to be if you want to be an opera fan), but I just can not accept that thing as the leader of the Valkyries.