Cheryl Burke Opens Up About Body Image Challenges and Mental Health

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Cheryl Burke, the 41-year-old professional dancer known for her role on “Dancing with the Stars,” has spoken out about the intense scrutiny she faces regarding her physical appearance. In a recent interview with “Entertainment Tonight,” Burke emphasized her efforts in improving her mental health and urged people to shift the focus away from her looks.

Burke acknowledged that being in the public eye comes with attention to her body, saying, “I signed up for it, I understand, I’m a public figure.” However, she expressed frustration over comments claiming she underwent dramatic changes such as using Ozempic or having cosmetic surgery. “Let’s talk about mental health, let’s talk about the work I’ve done on myself from the inside out,” she said.

The professional dancer has struggled with body dysmorphia for most of her life, a condition that intensified during her time on the ABC dance competition. “I would travel with a scale. That’s crazy, and I knew this could no longer continue,” Burke recalled. She reflected on how frequent fittings for costumes led to obsession over her weight, affecting her mental well-being.

Burke’s journey toward healing includes a change in her eating habits, which she attributes to a program called Zen. She wants to inspire young women to recognize that they are more than their physical appearance. “There’s more depth to a human being than their outside physical appearance,” she stated.

On social media, Burke has directly addressed critics, stating in a TikTok video, “I’m not on Ozempic. I’m not sick. I didn’t get a face transplant, and no, I didn’t get a brow lift.” She pointed out the harshness of online comments, particularly from women, calling the assumptions “exhausting.”

As Burke continues to advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness, she hopes that more people will focus on these important topics rather than her changing physique. “Let this be the last time I have to say it,” she concluded, reminding her followers that healing is a personal journey. “I’m still healing, still growing and still choosing to show up.”