Valerie Bertinelli, the talented actress and author, recently emerged as a voice of support and understanding regarding body image and weight loss struggles in a candid interview for the cover of this week’s PEOPLE magazine. The 65-year-old star, known for her role in “One Day at a Time,” openly discussed her views on the pressures of body image, the use of weight-loss medications, and cosmetic procedures.
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Bertinelli revealed that she has not personally tried GLP-1 medications – a class of drugs often prescribed for weight loss – yet she emphasised that she respects others’ choices regarding their own weight loss journeys. “Whatever anybody does to help themselves get to a better place to where they feel good about themselves, they should do it,” she stated. This acknowledgement of different paths to wellness highlights Bertinelli’s belief in individual agency and the need for kindness toward differing methods of self-improvement.
In her interview, Bertinelli extended her stance to plastic surgery, stating that she does not pass judgement on those who choose to undergo procedures to enhance their appearance. “I think we need to take a lot of the judgement out of all of it,” she remarked. “Anything that someone else is doing that doesn’t affect your life, leave them alone.” She admitted that, while she has made the decision not to pursue plastic surgery for now, she remains open to the possibility in the future.
The actress also touched on her experiences with Botox, a treatment she has tried but ultimately found unsuitable for her. “I didn’t like how it made my eyebrows go like this,” Bertinelli said, demonstrating a strained expression. Instead, she found an alternative in bangs, which she claimed effectively conceal wrinkles while allowing her to embrace her natural beauty. This light-hearted approach underscores her desire to find comfort in her own skin.
In the upcoming memoir titled “Getting Naked,” which is set for release on March 10, Bertinelli explores themes of self-acceptance and shedding societal expectations regarding body image and beauty standards. She candidly reflects on the often-critical voices that surround discussions of body size, stating that, “It doesn’t mean I won’t have a neck lift. It doesn’t mean I won’t try GLP-1s; it just means no for now.” This sentiment illustrates her journey toward self-acceptance and the importance of embracing one’s imperfections.
Bertinelli’s journey has been punctuated by significant health challenges, including recent surgeries to remove her breast implants, which unfortunately led to complications and an infection. Despite these hardships, she remains determined to cultivate a positive mindset, stating, “I’m going to learn how to appreciate this.” This resolve highlights her commitment to personal growth during difficult times.
The actress is also keen to share her culinary passion with the world through her digital platform, “Valerie’s Place.” In this new venture, Bertinelli plans to offer a variety of content, including three cooking shows, a podcast, and a book group. She expresses her enthusiasm for building a welcoming community that goes beyond just her own experiences. “You’re going to get three cooking shows, a podcast and a book group. I want to build a community, where, yes, it’s my place, but everybody is welcome,” she explained.
In addition to her online projects, Bertinelli is set to make a return to the screen with the upcoming Lifetime film, “Love, Again,” which premieres on May 9. She describes the film as “a gorgeous love story,” indicating her excitement about delving into her character and exploring tender emotional landscapes. “It was so much fun digging into a character and seeing how raw I can get with my emotions – and how much I can lose myself,” she said.
As Valerie Bertinelli prepares to unveil her latest book and embark on new projects, her emphasis on self-acceptance and non-judgment serves as a reminder of the value of supporting one another through personal journeys. Her open conversations about body image and wellness not only foster a sense of community but also promote a more compassionate understanding of the struggles many face in dealing with societal expectations of beauty.
“Getting Naked” by Valerie Bertinelli is available for pre-order ahead of its release on March 10, 2023, and is expected to resonate with readers seeking insight and encouragement on their paths to self-acceptance.