Valerie Bertinelli recently shared her experience of being let go as a spokesperson for a diet company after struggling with weight fluctuations, highlighting her journey toward self-acceptance and emotional well-being. The actress made these revelations during a segment titled “Memory Bank” on The Drew Barrymore Show, where she revisited moments from her life, including her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2012.
While reflecting on a photograph from the event, Bertinelli candidly admitted that she felt horrified about her appearance at the time, despite host Drew Barrymore praising her beauty. Bertinelli noted that she had previously lost 50 pounds as part of her role with the diet company, which she began representing in 2007. However, due to various personal struggles that affected her mental and emotional health, she regained the weight. “They fired me, eventually said, ‘We can’t keep going with you because you’re gaining weight again,’” she recounted.
Bertinelli pointed out that the size 12 floral dress she wore at the ceremony prompted her to reflect on societal perceptions of size. She recalled feeling self-conscious about her weight and emphasized that she currently embraces her size 10 figure. “It’s about my mental and emotional health,” she stated. Through tears, she expressed that she feels much stronger today, emphasizing the importance of self-identity beyond physical appearance. “What matters is who I am, how I treat people. Period!”
Bertinelli still owns the dress and reassured viewers that it fits well, noting the significance of inner self-worth over numerical clothing sizes. The conversation also touched on evolving societal attitudes toward body image, with both Bertinelli and Barrymore advocating for a broader understanding of health that encompasses mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
In a previous discussion on the show, Bertinelli had addressed the misconceptions surrounding body image and the pressures to conform, stating, “Our bodies are beautiful. Just put it in everything and anything you want to put it in!”
This heartfelt exchange resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the message that self-acceptance and kindness towards oneself and others are paramount, regardless of societal standards. The Drew Barrymore Show continues to highlight inspiring conversations around personal growth and body positivity.