Actress Delta Burke's Meth Weight Loss: Embracing Goddess Transformation

Designing Women s Delta Burke Was a Goddess When Using Meth to Lose Weight

Delta Burke. Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic

Delta Burke, known for her role in Designing Women, shared a story about her weight loss journey on a recent episode of the "Glamorous Trash" podcast. While studying in London, she visited a doctor who prescribed her pills that made her heart race but helped her lose weight.

Upon coming back to the United States, Burke, a former Miss Florida who participated in the 1976 Miss America pageant, requested a refill of her medication. She mentioned that the pills were known as Black Beauties and were not legal in America. Eventually, she found someone on the set of Filthy Rich, a show that aired on CBS from 1982 to 1983, who could provide her with the pills. According to Burke, they felt like medicine to her.

Black Beauties, also known as a combination amphetamine capsule, was a popular street drug in the 1960s and 1970s. These pills contained a mix of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine and were originally sold as diet pills. However, they were eventually taken off the market in 1998.

According to Burke, using Black Beauties wasn't just for fun. She mentioned that she developed a tolerance to the pills, which led her to experiment with crystal meth as the next step.

She mentioned that back then, no one had much knowledge about crystal meth. People advised her to chop it up and snort it, but she didn't want to. Instead, she chose to mix it with cranberry juice and drink it. As a result, they went without eating for five days.

Designing Women s Delta Burke Was a Goddess When Using Meth to Lose Weight

Delta Burke on ‘Designing Women.’ YouTube

Despite the drugs, Burke was being told she was still too big. Looking back, the actress said she was “a freaking goddess” at the time.

Burke opened up about her challenges with weight loss in her 1998 memoir titled Delta Style: Eve Wasn’t a Size 6 and Neither Am I.

In addition to her appearance on Filthy Rich, Burke is well-known for her portrayal of Suzanne Sugarbaker in the CBS sitcom Designing Women from 1986 to 1993. She shared the screen with Jean Smart, Annie Potts, and the late Dixie Carter. Burke's performance on the show earned her two Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

While doing the show, Burke realized she had always faced challenges with her weight. During a public appearance, a woman approached her and expressed gratitude for representing full-figured and plus-sized women. This encounter made Burke see herself in a new light.

Additionally, Burke received letters of support from other women who also appreciated her representation.

"They used to send me such sweet, touching, and encouraging letters while we were filming. I would keep them close by tucking them in my bra or purse. It helped me stay focused and motivated."

Editor's P/S:

Delta Burke's candid account of her weight loss journey through illicit substances is a cautionary tale about the lengths some people will go to achieve an unrealistic body image. Her use of Black Beauties and crystal meth highlights the dangers of unregulated drug use and the devastating effects it can have on both physical and mental health. It is crucial to recognize that there are healthier and more sustainable ways to manage weight, and seeking professional guidance from healthcare providers is essential.

Additionally, Burke's experience sheds light on the societal pressures and body image issues that women have faced throughout history. Despite her success as an actress and former Miss Florida, she was subjected to constant scrutiny and criticism about her weight. This article serves as a reminder that true beauty and self-worth are not defined by a number on a scale but by embracing individuality and seeking fulfillment in all aspects of life.