Cheryl Burke is pushing back against the intense scrutiny surrounding her physical transformation, urging the public and media to shift the conversation toward mental health and personal growth.
In a candid interview with Entertainment Tonight, the 41-year-old dancer opened up about the emotional toll of being the subject of relentless speculation about her appearance, including unfounded rumors about cosmetic procedures and the use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic.
In regards to this, Burke said, “Let’s talk about mental health. Let’s talk about what I’ve done in the last few years when I wasn’t in the spotlight. I’ve done so much work on myself from the inside out, and I’m proud of that. I wish the conversation focused more on that.”
According to Daily Mail, Burke acknowledged that being in the public eye comes with a degree of scrutiny, but said the recent wave of online comments has crossed the line into gaslighting.
Moreover, she admitted, “If I said it doesn’t affect me, I’d be lying. But it doesn’t affect me as badly as it did when I was on the show. I’m not here to stop people from talking, but I want to influence those who relate to my journey — especially young women — to recognize there’s more to a person than just their physical appearance.”
Additionally, the former pro dancer, who divorced actor Matthew Lawrence in 2022, also revealed her long-standing struggle with body dysmorphia, which began during her childhood and was exacerbated during her time on the show due to constant fittings and a preoccupation with her weight.
“I used to travel with a scale,” she said. “That number dictated how I felt every day. That’s no way to live.”
Burke attributed her recent physical changes to a shift in her eating habits, thanks in part to a food program called Zen, rather than any medical interventions.
Last week, she addressed the ongoing speculation head-on in a TikTok video, refuting claims that she had undergone facial surgery or was using Ozempic.
She added, “This is me at 41. I’ve changed because life has changed me. I’ve experienced trauma, divorce, sobriety, reinvention. I’m still healing, growing, and showing up.”
Furthermore, Burke closed her message with a firm stance on boundaries, stating, “If you’re here to speculate, compare, or demand answers you’re not entitled to, you’re not welcome. I don’t owe anyone an explanation for my healing.”
