Ashley Dupré Apologizes for Body-Shaming Comments Directed at Cheryl Burke

Ashley Dupré, the stepmother of social media influencer Alix Earle, publicly apologized on November 3, 2023, following controversial remarks made about former Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) judge Cheryl Burke. The comments, made during a TikTok video on October 31, suggested Burke should "go take more Ozempic," a weight loss medication, after she scored Earle low on the program.

This incident marks a significant moment in social media discourse, particularly surrounding body image and the use of pharmaceuticals for weight loss. According to reports from October 2023, Ozempic has seen a 400% increase in prescriptions among adults aged 30-50 since 2021, reflecting wider societal trends promoting weight loss at any cost.

Previously, similar public disparagements in the entertainment world have led to backlash. Notably, in 2022, comedian Norm Macdonald faced criticism for making negative comments about fellow comedian Roseanne Barr's appearance, echoing the issues of body shaming prevalent in celebrity culture.

In her apology, Dupré expressed regret for her comments, emphasizing that she did not intend to hurt Burke. The backlash against her remarks also brought attention to the prevailing stigmas around weight, especially in the entertainment industry, where body image is often scrutinized.

Burke, a notable figure in the dancing community, previously dealt with public scrutiny regarding her weight during her DWTS tenure, which she cited as a source of personal struggle. Since announcing her retirement from the series in late 2022, Burke has focused on mental health advocacy, launching initiatives to support those dealing with body image issues.

Industry sources confirm that the incident has reignited discussions about the responsibility of public figures in shaping social norms. Influencers like Earle and Dupré wield significant power in their platforms, which underscores a growing demand for accountability regarding the messages they disseminate.

Going forward, Dupré is set to appear in upcoming promotional content with Earle, a move companies often utilize to leverage influencer relationships. However, the fallout from this incident may influence their partnership dynamics moving forward.

The overall impact of Dupré’s comments reflects a broader cultural concern. The rise of influencers has changed the landscape of celebrity interactions, but raises critical questions regarding the ethical implications of body shaming.

Looking ahead, it will be crucial for public figures to navigate these discussions thoughtfully. As the industry continues to evolve, the backlash surrounding Dupré’s comments may serve as a cautionary tale about the intersection of influence and responsibility—reminding celebrities to foster a more supportive environment.