'DWTS' Pro Claps Back After Fans Slam Her ‘Unrecognizable’ Transformation: “I Don’t Owe Anyone Pretty”

Cheryl Burke is defending herself against online critics.

The former Dancing With The Stars professional dancer, 41, posted on Instagram Friday, June 6 responding to social media comments criticizing her new appearance since losing weight.
"Online criticism: 'You look so different. Did she get work done? You were better before...'" read the post. "Truth: 'People project. Let them. You're allowed to evolve.'"

"There comes a moment when you realize the loudest voice in the room doesn’t always speak the truth…The opinions. The projections. The pressure. You don’t have to carry any of it…" Burke added in the caption.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Cheryl Burke (@cherylburke)

Last month, Burke spoke to People Magazine about her recent weight loss, explaining that living a healthy lifestyle was always a priority for her, but things changed once she entered her 40s.

“I've noticed not only my skin changing into mature skin, but also just my metabolism has changed quite a lot,” she said. “I've noticed my feet cramping randomly if I'm not moving often. Obviously, I'm not as active as I was when I was on the show, but it’s just been a whole change for me."

Burke admits to struggling with her weight in the past. As a professional dancer - banking 26 seasons with Dancing With The Stars before exiting in 2022 - she revealed she used to "obsessive" over the number on the scale.

“It would really affect my mood on a daily basis if I didn't feel like I was skinny enough,” she admitted. “It's just not healthy.” 

Though Burke has since ditched the scale, she estimates she's lost between 30 to 35 lbs. in recent months from intermittent fasting, eating clean foods, going on long walks daily and taking workout classes with the Fitbit app. She denies taking weight-loss drugs or having plastic surgery of any kind.

Despite messages accusing Burke of taking Ozempic for weight loss, losing too much weight, and no longer promoting body positivity - Burke insists she's never felt better.

“I have so much more energy than I ever have,” she said.