She Was a TV Star in the ’80s, Mocked by Tabloids for Her Weight, Left Her Career & Battled Depression

Delta Burke, the two-time Emmy nominee and star of *Designing Women*, faced relentless public scrutiny over her weight during her career. Despite her success, she struggled with Hollywood’s harsh beauty standards, leading to depression and drastic measures like using weight-loss pills, which unknowingly involved illegal substances. When the pills failed, she was introduced to crystal meth, further complicating her struggles. Tabloids and public criticism fueled her insecurities, with strangers even confronting her about her appearance. Years later, she reflected on the damage, realizing her beauty had been overshadowed by cruel comments. Burke hopes young women recognize their worth, emphasizing, “She’s got power and she doesn’t know.” Her story highlights the toll of public scrutiny and the importance of self-acceptance.