could it be?

It used to be, in multiple contexts. Renaissance era being fat meant you had wealth and higher status. Caveman era being fat meant you can survive longer during periods of lack of fruitful hunting and gathering.

Now though? Anyone can do it due to convenience and cost. It's more of a personal value to have muscle and minimal fat, showcasing discipline and good health in an era where all time highs are seen for obesity rates and increased mortality rates attributed to obesity. Too lazy to post the article but got a quote: "Obesity is a lot more deadly than previously thought. Across recent decades, obesity accounted for 18 percent of deaths among black and white Americans between the ages of 40 and 85, according to scientists." Obesity plays a role in having increased mortality rates associated with cardiovascular illness and cancer.

absolutely - it promotes the body positivity movement, a refusal to adhere to harmful beauty standards.
big is beautiful. just be comfortable in your own skin - that's always sexy.