Full Breakdown
Valerie Bertinelli Reflects on Weight Gain and Being Fired as a Diet Spokesperson
1/21/2026, 12:51:42 AM
Weight Gain Leads to Termination from Diet Company
Valerie Bertinelli, the 65-year-old actress known for her roles in "One Day at a Time" and "Hot in Cleveland," recently shared a poignant memory regarding her experience as a spokesperson for an unnamed diet company. During an appearance on "The Drew Barrymore Show," she recounted how gaining weight led to her dismissal from the brand after she had initially lost 50 pounds while representing them. Bertinelli began her association with the diet program in 2007, but as her mental and emotional health declined, her weight began to fluctuate, ultimately resulting in her termination. “They fired me, eventually said, ‘We can’t keep going with you because you’re gaining weight again,’” she explained.
Personal Reflections on Body Image
Bertinelli reflected on her journey with weight and self-acceptance, noting that she currently wears a size 10, a size she would have found unacceptable during her time with the diet program. “I would’ve been horrified then being on the diet program being a size 10. But right now, it’s about my mental and emotional health,” she stated. She emphasized that her self-worth is not defined by her weight, asserting, “What matters is who I am, how I treat people. Period!”
Despite the emotional weight of her past experiences, Bertinelli expressed a sense of empowerment and resilience. “My mental and emotional health — even though I’m getting teary-eyed — is so strong right now,” she said, highlighting her growth and acceptance of her body. She also mentioned that she still owns the dress she wore during her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2012, which she described as fitting her “just fine” now.
Broader Implications and Support
Bertinelli's reflections resonate with broader discussions about body image and societal expectations. Co-host Drew Barrymore noted the importance of moving beyond simplistic labels like "skinny" and "fat," advocating for a focus on individual health and well-being. Bertinelli echoed this sentiment, stating, “What is healthy for you? What is healthy mentally, spiritually, emotionally, physically?”
Criticism & Opposition
While Bertinelli's journey has been one of self-acceptance, it also highlights the pressures faced by public figures regarding body image. Critics may argue that the diet industry perpetuates unrealistic standards, leading to harmful mental health outcomes for individuals, particularly women in the public eye.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And they fired me, eventually said, ‘We can’t keep going with you because you’re gaining weight again.'” — Valerie Bertinelli
- “What matters is who I am, how I treat people. Period!” — Valerie Bertinelli
- “My mental and emotional health — even though I’m getting teary-eyed — is so strong right now,” — Valerie Bertinelli
Bertinelli's candid discussion serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and self-acceptance in the face of societal pressures regarding body image.
