She Was an ’80s Star Ridiculed by Tabloids for Her Weight, but Her Husband Always Remained by Her Side – Inside Their Love Story
During the glamorous days of the 1980s, there was a beloved television star who faced a harsh side of fame. Critics zeroed in on her weight gain, leading to tough times and personal struggles. Her journey, marked by incredible highs and significant challenges, was softened by the unwavering support of her devoted husband. Let’s explore the story of her rise, trials, and the enduring love that brought healing.
In the late ’80s, this actress captured the nation’s heart with her sparkling wit and vibrant character in a top-rated sitcom. Nonetheless, the perks of stardom were accompanied by intense scrutiny over her physique.
Through this turbulent period, one solid rock remained in her life: her husband. While the world gossiped, he was her anchor, providing encouragement and stability when she needed it most.
A Promising Career Overshadowed by Public Scrutiny
In 1986, this talented actress secured a pivotal role as Suzanne Sugarbaker in “Designing Women.” Her portrayal of the sassy character earned her both fame and admiration.
Despite her initial success, the pressures of a high-profile career in Hollywood began to take a toll on her mental health and confidence as she battled with longstanding depression.
Privately, she was grappling with severe depression. By the end of the show’s second season, the condition had intensified, leading her to withdraw from her surroundings during difficult times.
“Basically, I would shut down and hole up,” she later admitted. “I wouldn’t want to leave the apartment until I came out of this dark place. It was very debilitating.”
Her struggles surfaced more prominently during the fourth season of the show due to severe panic attacks, which left her shaking and emotionally drained.
During these periods, both professionally and personally overwhelming, co-star Dixie Carter stayed by her side, lending comfort and reassurance.
However, as the tabloid headlines mocked her changing figure, the actress found herself the subject of unyielding and damaging public judgment.
The negative press was a heavy burden. “The tabloid machine tortured [her],” co-star Annie Potts echoed. Despite being an accomplished actress and a former Miss Florida, she often reflected on why she was targeted.
Statements like, “I didn’t do anything to deserve this,” revealed her confusion. Her despair culminated in unhealthy eating habits as she attempted to cope with the humiliation.
This stress led to further weight gain, eventually causing tension with “Designing Women” producers. Yearning to be free from this cycle, she requested release from her contract only to find herself hospitalized and emotionally battered.
Finding solace seemed challenging, but thanks to the support of a friend, her health began to get on track. Encouraged by creator Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, she bravely tackled her body image struggles through a poignant episode on the show.
The groundbreaking “They Shoot Fat Women, Don’t They” episode addressed these issues with sincerity and was hailed for its powerful message, earning her not only an Emmy nomination but also a standing ovation.
Despite the critical acclaim, backstage tensions inevitably led to her being dismissed in 1991, which deeply affected her. The confusions and heartache prompted her to take a step back.
Moving to New Orleans with her husband in 1995 gave her the fresh start she needed. She embraced her life away from Hollywood, starting a plus-size clothing line and penning her memoir, “Delta Style: Eve Wasn’t a Size 6 and Neither Am I.”
The late ’90s, however, weren’t devoid of hardship. In 1997, tragedy struck with the loss of her grandmother and a pet. She also found herself supporting her mother’s breast cancer fight.
That year also brought a diabetes diagnosis, prompting major lifestyle changes. Her weight naturally stabilized at about 150 pounds, a reminder of when she first fell in love with her husband.
A startling revelation came years later about her past struggle with methamphetamine as a weight control. Yet, meeting her husband marked a turning point towards brighter days.
As she candidly shared in 2024, “Nobody knew about crystal meth at the time.” Her confessions shed light on a painful experience, dampened by her husband’s fortifying support.
He offered the certainty and love that made her feel special, and with his encouragement, began a new chapter free from old scars.
A Love That Endured Through All Seasons
Delta Burke’s life was forever altered after meeting Gerald McRaney, a fellow actor, during a stint on “Designing Women” in 1987.
After just a few dates, McRaney was certain he had found a lifetime partner. “He asked me to marry him on the second date, so we were pretty committed!” Burke fondly recalled.
“I wasn’t going to let her get away,” McRaney later admitted, demonstrating his persistence. “I already had competition. There were people asking her out on dates, and I was going to move in right away.”
The couple exchanged vows in 1989 at a grand affair, surrounded by 500 guests, where Burke was embraced at her 170-pound frame, radiating joy.
McRaney’s love provided a comforting counterpoint to the relentless public criticisms regarding her weight. “The weight never mattered to him,” Burke affirmed. “He told me that honest to God he didn’t care, which of course I didn’t believe.”
McRaney reflected on their profound relationship, “If what you want is a trophy wife, then be happy with how empty and vacuous that’ll turn out to be. But if what you want is a wife, then you love that person. Period.”
The couple faced one of their biggest tests after the actress’s departure from “Designing Women.” Finding herself alone and distraught, Burke reached a low point, compelled to contact McRaney for help, who then rushed to assist her.
His constant reassurance allowed her to rebuild confidence and ensure she was never alone in her battles. The steadfastness he showed carved a path for her healing and acceptance.
Their journey was one of resilience and mutual respect. In 2017, McRaney’s emotional tribute to Burke while receiving an Emmy showcased the deep bond they shared.
Throughout the years, their marriage thrived, fortified by humor and a complete appreciation of each other’s unique quirks. “We embrace each other’s insanity,” McRaney said, referencing their vow renewal.
“I love my life truly for the first time,” Burke expressed, praising the impact of McRaney’s unwavering love. “And I love him desperately,” she added, reflecting their timeless relationship.
Their story is a testament to sincere partnership, triumph over adversity, and unconditional love that stands strong before life’s twists and turns.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
