Cheryl Burke is taking a stand against the criticism surrounding her physical transformation, advocating for a shift in focus towards mental health and personal growth in a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight. The 41-year-old dancer expressed her frustration over the intense scrutiny regarding her appearance, including unfounded rumors of cosmetic procedures and the use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic.
In the interview, Burke emphasized the importance of addressing mental health, saying, “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.”
Acknowledging the burden of living in the public eye, she noted that recent online comments have crossed a line into gaslighting. 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.” Burke aims to inspire others, especially young women, to understand that there is more to a person than their physical appearance.
The former dancer, who divorced actor Matthew Lawrence in 2022, also discussed her ongoing battle with body dysmorphia that began in her childhood. She shared how preoccupations with weight during her time on the show, including carrying a scale to measure her weight daily, had a detrimental effect on her mental well-being.
Burke clarified that her recent physical changes are attributed to healthier eating habits through a food program called Zen, rather than medical interventions. She has addressed the swirling speculation head-on, using her TikTok platform to refute claims about facial surgery or using Ozempic.
“This is me at 41,” Burke stated. “I’ve changed because life has changed me. I’ve experienced trauma, divorce, sobriety, reinvention. I’m still healing, growing, and showing up.” She concluded with a strong message about boundaries, declaring, “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.”
Burke’s journey reflects a positive shift towards valuing mental well-being over physical appearance, highlighting the challenges many face in an increasingly critical world. Her candid approach encourages others to prioritize self-work and healing, demonstrating resilience in the face of scrutiny.