Meagan Starke, widely known online as Mystic Being, faced a wave of intense online criticism and body-shaming after publishing her creative interpretation of the character Emma Frost from the video game Marvel Rivals. Rather than discouraging her, the widespread negative feedback transformed into a broader cultural conversation about inclusivity, body size expectations, and gatekeeping within the global cosplay community.
Who is Mystic Being and how did her journey begin?
Starting her creative journey in 2021, Mystic Being discovered a profound passion for bringing fictional figures to life through costume design and performance. Over the past few years, she has explored more than 100 diverse characters drawn from comics, anime, films, and video games, successfully building a massive digital footprint with a combined following of over seven million users across various social media platforms.
Her transition into crafting her own bespoke costumes began in 2023, expanding her artistic repertoire alongside her popular content creation focused on streaming, anime, and travel. However, her increasing visibility has occasionally exposed her to hostile reactions from internet users who argue that plus-size creators should adhere to specific physical standards when portraying established fictional heroes and villains.
How does she handle online criticism?
Despite encountering thousands of hateful comments regarding her physical appearance during her Emma Frost showcase, Mystic Being has consistently chosen to prioritize the positive encouragement she receives from her supportive fan base over toxic commentary.
"I handle that by focusing on the love. There are people who support me, appreciate my interpretations, and enjoy what I create," Mystic Being explained when discussing her coping mechanisms against online harassment. This steadfast resolve allows her to continue exploring unexpected and unconventional characters—ranging from classic monsters like the Creature from the Black Lagoon and the Bride of Frankenstein to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles icon Michelangelo.
What is her message to aspiring creators?
Advocating for a more inclusive environment within the hobby, Mystic Being maintains that creators do not need to match an original character's exact physical attributes, body type, or wear flawless costumes to participate in the craft. Her core philosophy encourages enthusiasts of all skill levels, backgrounds, and body types to select characters they genuinely adore and embrace the joy of performance.
"Choose a character you love and give yourself permission to have fun. There is room for different sizes, skill levels, and interpretations," she emphasized, hoping her ongoing journey will inspire hesitant newcomers to step forward and express themselves without fear of judgment.