Cheryl Burke, the former professional dancer from *Dancing With the Stars*, has shared her struggles with body image and the impact of online bullying on her mental health. After 17 years with the show, Burke left in 2022, citing relentless body shaming and accusations surrounding her weight loss journey. Recently, in an interview with *Us Weekly*, she expressed her frustration with the negative comments and misinformation regarding her appearance, including claims of using weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and undergoing plastic surgery, both of which she vehemently denies.
Burke has battled body dysmorphic disorder, an intense preoccupation with her appearance, for decades. Despite the challenges, she is determined to reclaim her narrative. “I am done being judged,” Burke stated firmly. She explained that the recent wave of online criticism came after her noticeable weight loss, which attracted new trolls who claimed she looked better before. “It’s a tired subject,” Burke said, adding that people have even created edited videos criticizing her looks.
Reflecting on her journey, Burke admitted that her appearance has changed over the years but views it as a natural evolution. “Think about the mask I was wearing on the show,” she said. “I’m learning and realizing who I am underneath all of the makeup.” At 41, Burke emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth.
Confronting Online Criticism
Burke recounted her experiences with social media bullying, acknowledging its emotional toll. “To say that the social media bullying has not affected me would be a lie,” she said. “I’m human.” She actively works to manage her reactions, thanks to therapy and energy healing. “I’ve stopped scrolling, and I try not to read any comments,” she explained. This approach has helped her find peace amidst the noise of online criticism.
Despite the negativity, Burke remains focused on her journey of self-discovery, stating, “I can’t control what other people are saying about me.” She encourages others to reflect on their reactions and consider how their words may stem from personal insecurities. “It has everything to do with [each] person; this is a straight-up, 100 percent reflection of who they are,” she added.
Burke also addressed the rumors surrounding her weight-loss methods, flatly denying any use of Ozempic. “No, I have not. There’s just no way; I faint at the sight of needles,” she explained. Instead, she attributes her transformation to healthier eating habits and lifestyle choices, including a meal delivery program that emphasizes portion control and balanced nutrition.
The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Love
Marking a significant milestone, Burke recently celebrated seven years of sobriety. She shared that the journey has been filled with ups and downs, but she remains proud of her progress. “Drinking gave me constant confidence, liquid confidence that obviously was not real,” she reflected. Burke acknowledged that the pressures of online scrutiny sometimes made her contemplate relapse, but she is committed to maintaining her sobriety.
In her candid conversation, Burke revealed that she has been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which she believes has influenced her career as a dancer. “It was really freeing when I got diagnosed because it made sense,” she noted. This diagnosis has provided her with a new understanding of herself and her struggles.
Burke’s openness about her experiences serves as a platform for others facing similar challenges. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions around mental health and self-acceptance. “I believe I was given this platform because I can be open about my issues,” she stated.
In an industry where appearances are often scrutinized, Cheryl Burke continues to advocate for authenticity and self-love, urging others to embrace their true selves. Her journey reflects a commitment to personal growth and resilience amidst adversity, inspiring many to prioritize their mental health and well-being.
