Cheryl Burke, the former professional dancer on *Dancing With the Stars*, has openly discussed the impact of body shaming and online bullying on her mental health and sobriety. In an interview with *Us Weekly*, Burke detailed her struggles with body dysmorphic disorder and the relentless criticism she has faced throughout her 17-year career. Emphasizing that she is “done being judged,” the 41-year-old San Francisco native expressed her frustration over the recent wave of negative comments following her weight loss journey.
Burke’s decision to speak out was fueled by an increase in online harassment, particularly after her transformation became visible to the public. Critics targeted her through social media platforms, accusing her of using weight-loss drugs and undergoing plastic surgery. Burke categorically denies these claims, stating, “I am not a liar. I’ve never gone under the knife to get anything done.”
Confronting Online Harassment and Body Image
The dancer shared that the relentless scrutiny has been challenging, leading her to seek support from her therapist and an energy healer. “It’s always been this race for me to try and gain others’ acceptance rather than find it within myself,” Burke explained. She emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and has worked hard to distance herself from harmful online commentary. “I’ve stopped scrolling, and I try not to read any comments,” she said, acknowledging the temptation to seek feedback.
Burke also reflected on her cultural identity, asserting her pride in being Asian. She stated, “I feel like I’ve represented my community in a good light. I definitely don’t have shame when it comes to that.” Her journey toward self-acceptance includes shedding the “mask” she wore during her time on *Dancing With the Stars*, which involved heavy makeup and tanning. “I’m learning and realizing who I am underneath all of the makeup,” she added.
Maintaining Sobriety and Promoting Mental Health Awareness
After marking seven years of sobriety, Burke discussed the importance of openly addressing her struggles. “I know I’m helping at least one other person feel like they’re not alone,” she stated. The pressures of online bullying have tested her resolve, but Burke remains committed to her sobriety. “To have thrown seven years down the drain, I’d hate myself,” she said, expressing her determination to remain accountable.
Regarding the rumors of her using Ozempic, a weight-loss drug, Burke firmly stated that she has never considered it, highlighting her fear of needles and concerns about potential side effects. Instead, she attributes her weight loss to healthier eating habits and lifestyle choices, such as not eating past 19:00. “I changed my eating habits,” she noted. “It wasn’t so much about a number on the scale as it was about how I feel.”
Burke’s candidness about her experiences resonates with many, particularly women, who she believes often face similar pressures. “There’s always been an issue of women not necessarily being supportive of other women,” she reflected. Burke aims to use her platform to foster understanding and compassion among her followers, advocating for mental health awareness and the normalization of these conversations.
As Burke continues her journey, she emphasizes the importance of self-love and acceptance, urging others to reflect on their behavior online. “This is a straight-up, 100 percent reflection of who they are,” she stated about her critics. With her renewed focus on inner peace and self-acceptance, Burke is determined to move forward and embrace who she is, free from the judgment of others.
