Gerald McRaney Explains Why Wife Delta Burke Retreated from the Spotlight (Exclusive)

Gerald McRaney Shares Insight on Wife Delta Burke’s Retreat from the Limelight

Award-winning actor Gerald McRaney sheds light on why his wife, Delta Burke, decided to step away from the public eye in an exclusive interview. Delta Burke, known for her iconic role as Suzanne Sugarbaker on the beloved show Designing Women, was at the peak of her fame in 1990. However, just a year later, she parted ways with the show amidst reports of a highly publicized dispute with the show’s creator, Linda Bloodworth-Thomason. While she continued to pursue acting sporadically over the following two decades, the relentless tabloid scrutiny surrounding her weight and mental health eventually took its toll, leading her to retreat from the spotlight.

McRaney, 77, disclosed to PEOPLE that Burke grew weary of the constant media attention and controversies that often accompany the entertainment industry. He expressed, “I think she had had it with the tabloids and that dust up she had on Designing Women, and she got tired of all the stuff that goes with it.” Despite Burke’s deep passion for acting, the negative narratives surrounding her appearance and personal life became overwhelming, prompting her to reconsider her career in showbiz. The couple has been happily married for 36 years, and McRaney’s unwavering support for his wife’s decisions is evident as he reflects on her journey.

In a rare interview on the Glamorous Trash podcast with author Chelsea Devantez in 2024, Burke, now 68, bravely opened up about her struggles with the harsh criticisms she faced. She candidly shared that she felt emotionally fragile in dealing with the hurtful comments about her weight, describing the narratives as “incredibly ugly.” Recalling distressing encounters with fans probing into her personal life, Burke highlighted the intrusive nature of public scrutiny and its detrimental impact on her well-being. Despite her resilience, the intense scrutiny ultimately led her to withdraw from the entertainment industry to protect her mental health.

While Burke chose to step back from the public eye, McRaney has continued to carve out a successful career in acting. Over the past two decades, he has graced the screens in popular shows like Deadwood, Longmire, This Is Us, and House of Cards. Currently starring in the hit Hulu series Paradise, McRaney acknowledges the challenges of navigating the press and dealing with unwarranted falsehoods. He empathizes with Burke’s plight, recognising the frustration of combating baseless rumours and misinformation without recourse to legal action.

Reflecting on his enduring marriage to Burke, McRaney revealed the profound admiration he holds for his wife. Despite the couple’s contrasting approaches to fame, McRaney remains steadfast in his support for Burke as she navigates her personal journey. While Burke may have retreated from the spotlight, McRaney hints at the possibility of her returning to the industry with caution. He shared that there have been instances where her former agent persuaded her to consider acting opportunities, albeit reluctantly. McRaney’s unwavering loyalty and understanding underscore the strength of their bond and mutual respect for each other’s choices.

As Burke continues to prioritise her well-being and mental health, McRaney’s steadfast support serves as a beacon of love and encouragement. Their enduring partnership and shared experiences epitomise the resilience and unwavering commitment that define their remarkable journey together. Despite the challenges they have faced, McRaney and Burke’s enduring love and unwavering support for each other stand as a testament to the power of love and understanding in navigating life’s complexities.