Star Jones Reflects on Public Body Shaming and Her 22-Year Weight Loss Journey: “I Had to Lose It in My Head First”

May 11, 2025: Television personality, fashion designer, and author Star Jones recently opened up about the intense scrutiny she faced over her body and the personal growth that helped her sustain a healthier lifestyle for over two decades.

Appearing on the latest episode of the Behind the Table podcast, Jones reflected on the public criticism and stigma surrounding weight during the early 2000s, emphasizing how important it was for her to make changes on her own terms.

“Twenty years ago, it was shameful to be an overweight person,” she said, highlighting how late-night hosts routinely mocked those struggling with weight. “People were stigmatized very much.”

Despite facing intense media scrutiny, Jones resisted societal pressure to pursue quick fixes. Instead, she chose to focus on mental and emotional wellness before making any physical changes.
“I am so grateful that I followed my doctor’s advice and not the public’s advice,” she shared. “Because I actually had to lose the weight in my head — before I could lose it on my body.”

According to Jones, this mindset shift was crucial in helping her maintain a healthier weight and lifestyle. “It’s been 22 years, and I’ve kept the weight off,” she said, attributing her long-term success to introspection and professional guidance.

She concluded with a powerful reminder: “That is not something that people can fully appreciate — how hard it is to really change your lifestyle and your life and to do it in the public eye.”

Jones’ journey continues to inspire many navigating similar challenges, especially in a society that still wrestles with body image stigma.