Entertainers often inspire people around the world with their weight loss journeys. Here's a look at some famous figures who have lost significant weight over the years, offering insights into their methods and motivations.
Carnie Wilson's Diet-Driven Transformation
Music star Carnie Wilson, known for her time with Wilson Phillips, has been candid about her weight struggles. In April 2024, she unveiled her recent slimming down, attributing it to dietary changes. "Another before and 'during' … my health journey! This is 40 pounds down," she shared on Instagram, emphasizing that her success came "PURELY through diet - no gluten or sugar, no butter and keeping fats down too." Wilson, daughter of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson, adjusted her eating habits to manage cravings realistically, allowing for occasional indulgences like cheese and nuts.
Jesse Plemons' Intermittent Fasting Success
Oscar-nominated actor Jesse Plemons, recognized for his roles in "Friday Night Lights" and "Fargo," embarked on a weight loss journey starting in 2022. His motivation stemmed from a role requiring him to portray a soldier. Plemons revealed in an Interview magazine in late 2022 that he employed intermittent fasting and cut carbs. "It's easy if you just actually do it," he noted, adding, "I feel better. Blood pressure's down."
Ricki Lake's Pharmaceutical-Free Weight Loss
Actress and former talk show host Ricki Lake has been open about her struggles with weight. In February 2024, she shared her success in losing 30 pounds in four months without medication. Lake, then 55 and in perimenopause, expressed initial concerns about her body's ability to lose weight. However, she and her husband, Ross Burningham, achieved their goals through dedication and hard work. "I am so so proud of us," Lake wrote on Instagram. "I feel amazing. I feel strong."
Oprah Winfrey's Evolving Approach to Weight Management
Oprah Winfrey has publicly battled with her weight for decades. She initially embraced Weight Watchers in late 2015, even purchasing a stake in the company. In a December 2023 cover story for People magazine, Winfrey reflected on her weight struggles, describing how it had occupied "space in my brain" for five decades.
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Following a knee surgery in 2021, she set new fitness goals, incorporating hiking into her routine and revamping her diet. While initially resistant to weight-loss medications, Winfrey later changed her perspective. "I realized I'd been blaming myself all these years for being overweight, and I have a predisposition that no amount of willpower is going to control," she explained. With the guidance of her doctor, she obtained a prescription for weight loss medication, using it as a tool to manage her weight.
Elle King's Postpartum Transformation
Singer Elle King shared her health journey on Instagram in August 2023. After struggling with her weight during and after pregnancy, she found strength through metabolic workouts and light cardio. King emphasized that her journey was ongoing and about more than just weight loss. "My BRAIN functions better on the days I move my body," she explained. King also clarified that she was not using weight loss medication, citing her PCOS and pre-diabetic condition.
Post Malone's Healthier Lifestyle
Music star Post Malone addressed his weight loss during an August 2023 appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, revealing he had lost at least 55 pounds. He attributed his weight gain to an unhealthy lifestyle, including sugary drinks. Malone started taking his health more seriously after welcoming his first child in May 2022. He clarified on Instagram that he was not using drugs, stating, "I'm having a lot of fun performing, and have never felt healthier."
Lainey Wilson Sets the Record Straight
Country music singer Lainey Wilson addressed rumors about her weight loss in June 2023, dispelling claims that she had lost 70 pounds or used weight-loss gummies. She attributed any weight loss to her demanding performance schedule. "If I have lost weight, it's because I am working hard playing hour-and-a-half shows and running around every night of my life," she explained.
Billy Gardell's Health-Focused Motivation
Actor Billy Gardell, who weighed over 370 pounds during his time on "Mike & Molly," has lost more than 150 pounds. He told "Entertainment Tonight" in April 2023 that his motivation came from a desire to set a good example for his son and improve his health. Gardell no longer suffers from type 2 diabetes, and his resting heart rate has decreased significantly.
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Christopher Schwarzenegger's Fitness Regimen
Christopher Schwarzenegger, son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver, has also undergone a noticeable transformation. Arnold revealed on Instagram that Christopher's weight loss was achieved through boxing, weightlifting, stretching, and cycling classes.
Sharon Osbourne's Experience with Weight-Loss Drugs
Sharon Osbourne discussed her use of an injectable weight-loss drug in May 2023. She took the medication for four months and lost 30 pounds, but experienced nausea as a side effect. Osbourne noted that she has since maintained her weight loss without continuing the medication.
David Harbour's Physical Transformations for Roles
David Harbour has undergone significant physical transformations for his acting roles. He gained weight for "Black Widow" and then slimmed down for season 4 of "Stranger Things," losing over 75 pounds. Harbour shared that he has since gained weight again for a role as Santa Claus and is working to return to a healthy weight.
The Complex Reality of "The Biggest Loser"
"The Biggest Loser," a reality series that followed overweight contestants competing to lose weight, became a cultural phenomenon. However, many contestants revealed that they struggled to maintain their weight loss long-term after appearing on the show.
Paris Phillips' Dramatic Transformation
Paris Phillips, known for her appearances on "Love & Hip Hop," has showcased a stunning weight loss transformation. While she hasn't officially confirmed the methods she used, fans have noticed her more confident demeanor and dramatic change in appearance.
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Additional Celebrity Weight Loss Stories
Tokyo Vanity: The "Love & Hip Hop" star showcased her transformation, focusing on plant-based foods from the Sirtfood diet.
Toya Wright: As a mother of two, she embraced a healthier lifestyle with the help of celebrity fitness trainer Kory Phillips and plant-based supplements.
Jordyn Woods: She channeled her love for fitness into creating her activewear collection, Secndnture.
Gucci Mane: The rapper lost a significant amount of weight after his release from prison by eliminating unhealthy foods and adopting a healthier lifestyle.
Mariah Carey: After giving birth to twins, she lost weight with the Jenny Craig program, consisting of a 1,500-calorie diet and regular workouts.
Missy Elliott: Diagnosed with Graves’ disease, she shed pounds through diet and exercise, cutting out sodas, bread, and juices.
Riley Burruss: Kandi Burruss' daughter lost a significant amount of weight naturally through hard work and dedication.
Randy Jackson: After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, he underwent gastric bypass surgery and changed his eating habits.
Raven-Symoné: She attributed her weight loss to reduced stress after ending her Disney Channel show.
Mo'Nique: She revealed that she was the thinnest she'd been her entire adult life through raw foods, dance workouts, and self-belief.
Chrisette Michele: She lost weight by identifying and eliminating foods that caused inflammation, bloating, and brain fog, and by cutting toxic people from her life.
Jennifer Hudson: She maintains her weight loss by controlling portions and staying active.
Jordin Sparks: She prioritized her health, losing weight through proper nutrition and exercise.
Al Roker: He lost weight after undergoing gastric bypass surgery and committing to a diet of whole, unprocessed foods.
Sherri Shepherd: She shed pounds thanks to the Keto diet.