Ashley Dupré, stepmother of social media influencer Alix Earle, has publicly apologized for making insensitive comments about ‘Dancing With the Stars’ judge Cheryl Burke, specifically referencing the weight-loss drug Ozempic, after facing significant backlash for her remarks. The incident underscores ongoing issues of body-shaming in celebrity culture and the rapid spread of online conflicts.
In a TikTok video posted on October 31, 2025, Dupré expressed regret for her ‘insensitive’ comments, attributing them to her ‘step-motherly instincts’ getting the better of her during the heat of competition. She emphasized that she never intends to make others feel bad and strives to uplift people, noting that this value is central to how she and her husband, Thomas ‘TJ’ Earle, raise their children. The apology came amid growing criticism from fans and social media users who labeled her initial remarks as bullying and unnecessary.
The controversy began during the ‘Halloween Night’ episode of ‘Dancing With the Stars’ on October 29, when Burke, serving as a guest judge, gave Earle and her professional partner Val Chmerkovskiy a score of nine for their tango, while other judges awarded perfect tens. Dupré responded angrily in a TikTok video, telling Burke to ‘go take more Ozempic’—a reference to the diabetes medication often used for weight loss. When one of her young children questioned the comment, Dupré doubled down, stating that Burke looked ‘weird’ and unlike her usual self, further escalating the situation.
Burke addressed the body-shaming directly in her own TikTok video on October 30, without naming Dupré explicitly. She condemned those who think body-shaming is acceptable, especially in front of children, arguing that such behavior sends a harmful message about values. Burke stressed that while constructive criticism of her judging is welcome, attacks on her appearance are unacceptable. She highlighted the influence words have on younger generations and urged critics to leave her name out of such discussions if they choose to set negative examples.
This is not the first time Burke has faced body-shaming; in May 2025, she addressed online trolls after her dramatic physical transformation led to speculation about her health and use of weight-loss drugs. In a candid response, she denied using Ozempic, citing a fear of needles and undesirable side effects, and explained that changes in her eating habits, such as stopping food intake after 7 p.m., were responsible for her weight loss. Burke’s past experiences add context to her firm stance against body-shaming in the current incident.
The exchange between Dupré and Burke highlights broader societal concerns about online behavior, celebrity influence, and the normalization of body-shaming. It reflects how social media platforms can amplify personal conflicts into public spectacles, with real-world impacts on mental health and public discourse. The rapid backlash and subsequent apology demonstrate the power of audience accountability in shaping celebrity interactions and promoting more respectful communication.
Looking ahead, the apology may help de-escalate the situation, but it also raises questions about the responsibilities of public figures in modeling positive behavior. As ‘Dancing With the Stars’ continues its season, this incident could prompt further discussions among producers and participants about handling criticism and fostering a supportive environment. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the need for empathy and kindness in both online and offline interactions.