Maddie Baillio, the actress who captured hearts as Tracy Turnblad in NBC's 2016 production of Hairspray Live!, has recently shared her inspiring journey of weight loss and self-discovery. Her story is not just about shedding pounds, but about gaining a healthier relationship with herself, her body, and her dreams. Baillio's transformation serves as a powerful reminder that true well-being comes from within and that pursuing one's passions is possible at any size.
From Hairspray Live! to a Health Awakening
After her breakout role in Hairspray Live!, Baillio's career continued to flourish with parts in Netflix's Dumplin' and the remake of Cinderella starring Camila Cabello. However, it was during the filming of Cinderella in 2020 that Maddie realized she needed to prioritize her physical health. She had always “been comfortable” with her body, which was perfect for the lead role of Tracy Turnblad.
“There was a scene that didn’t make it in the movie, where me and the other stepsister [Charlotte Spencer] led a group of like 300 girls - fantastic dancers, slender, they had it going on - down this 50-yard pathway to the castle singing ‘Single Ladies’ and dancing," she explained. "I couldn’t keep up with the choreography. I kept losing my breath.”
Baillio knew if she was going to keep slaying in musicals she was going to have to “build stamina.”
The Pandemic Pivot: A Time for Change
The onset of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown unexpectedly provided Baillio with the time and space she needed to focus on her well-being. Returning to her hometown of Texas, she decided to make a change. “I had so much free time, so I thought, ‘I’m just going to start walking.’ The sun was so good for my mental health and my physical health."
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Baillio embraced walking as a form of exercise and mental wellness. "I could walk for 30 minutes to an hour, and then the next week, it was a good two hours." This simple yet effective activity became the cornerstone of her transformation.
A Holistic Approach to Health: Diet and Exercise
Walking was just the beginning. To keep the momentum going, Maddie stopped eating red meat, eventually going vegan. She also incorporated hot yoga into her routine, documenting her progress on Instagram. These changes, combined with her increased physical activity, led to a significant shift in her overall health and well-being. After stepping on the scale, Maddie realized a new sensation: she had control over her body!
More Than Just Weight Loss: A Mental Transformation
Baillio's journey was not just about the physical changes; it was also about a profound shift in her mindset. "I’m inspired by the changing mentality," Maddie continued.
The weight loss became a catalyst for increased energy and a renewed sense of self. “Life became so much more fun when I had that physical stamina,” she told the outlet. "I’d go to West Hollywood, and I could dance forever throughout the night."
Redefining Success: Broadway Dreams Beyond Weight
Maddie's ultimate goal extends beyond weight loss. "I wanna play my dream roles on Broadway that have nothing to do with my weight. And I definitely see it going that direction.” This statement reflects her desire to be recognized for her talent and artistry, not just her physical appearance.
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Navigating the Journey: Self-Love and Body Positivity
Baillio is candid about the challenges of her journey and the importance of self-love. “We have to feel good about ourselves. It can’t come from outside sources." She acknowledges the complexities of receiving compliments on her appearance while emphasizing the need to avoid fixating on external validation.
“It is a compliment when people tell me that I look good, but I refrain from commenting on people’s physical appearance because I know that when I was struggling - when I was so hyper fixated on the number on the scale, and people were telling me that I was doing good and [to] keep going - that wasn’t good for me."
A Blooming Romance: Love and Happiness
Adding to her happiness, Maddie is currently living in LA with her boyfriend Solomon Reynolds. She knew Solomon way before she was famous - it’s a really sweet story! After a decade they met again randomly and reconnected - and he was still her dream guy!
Baillio gushed that she’s in a “lovely, healthy relationship” with both her body and her partner. "I’m so happy; we’re so happy."
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