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DWTS Alum Cheryl Burke Resists Relapse Amid Appearance Criticism
6 Aug
Summary
- Cheryl Burke considered drinking due to intense scrutiny over her looks
- She has maintained sobriety for 7 years and refuses to "throw that away"
- Cheryl is now learning to love the person she sees in the mirror

In a recent interview, former Dancing with the Stars professional dancer Cheryl Burke opened up about the immense pressure and scrutiny she has faced over her physical appearance throughout her career. Cheryl, who has maintained her sobriety for the last 7 years, admitted that the constant criticism even tempted her to consider drinking again.
"It was something that I definitely thought about doing, but I wouldn't be able to live with that shame or guilt if I were to relapse," Cheryl told Us Weekly on August 6, 2025. She expressed her fear of "throwing 7 years down the drain" and hating herself if she were to give in to the temptation.
Despite the intense negativity, Cheryl is now on a journey of self-acceptance and learning to love the person she sees in the mirror. "I've taken so much time to love who I see in the mirror, that is something that's also new to me," she shared, emphasizing her determination to stay true to herself and her sobriety.