Alix Earle’s stepmother, Ashley Dupre, has issued an apology following backlash over body-shaming remarks directed at Cheryl Burke, a judge on the popular television show Dancing With the Stars. The controversy erupted when Dupre suggested in a TikTok video that Burke should “go take more Ozempic,” a reference to the diabetes medication often associated with weight loss, after Burke gave Earle a low score during a recent episode.
In a TikTok post on October 31, 2023, Dupre expressed regret for her comments, acknowledging they were made in the heat of the moment. “I just wanted to jump on here and apologize for making comments that were insensitive,” the 40-year-old said. She emphasized that her intentions were not to hurt anyone, stating, “Never ever do I want to make another person feel bad.”
Burke, 41, responded to the controversy the day before, addressing the body-shaming remarks during an Instagram video. She highlighted the impact of such comments, especially when made publicly. “My comments didn’t just come out of nowhere. It came from personal experience,” Burke explained, referencing her extensive history on the show, which spans an impressive 26 seasons. She noted that while she welcomes constructive criticism, derogatory remarks about her appearance cross a line.
Burke further elaborated on the broader implications of body shaming, particularly in front of children. “You have to recognize the influence your words have on the next generation watching you,” she said. “If that’s the example you choose to set, then please, I beg of you, leave my name out of it.”
The professional dancer has previously denied using weight loss drugs, stating that her physical changes resulted from healthier eating habits rather than medication. “I faint at the sight of needles,” she told Us Weekly in an exclusive interview in August 2023. Burke emphasized that her focus has always been on how she feels rather than a specific number on the scale.
The exchange between Dupre and Burke has reignited discussions about the consequences of body shaming in public forums, particularly in the entertainment industry. As both women navigate their respective careers, their experiences reflect a growing awareness of the importance of kindness and sensitivity in public discourse.
