Losing weight is tough—no matter who you are. Even celebrities, with access to personal chefs and trainers, face the same emotional, physical, and mental hurdles as the rest of us. Many have opened up about their struggles and successes, sharing stories that are both inspiring and surprisingly relatable. Let’s take a look at a few well-known figures who’ve gotten real about their weight loss journeys.
Jelly Roll: 200-Pound Turnaround
Jelly Roll revealed that at his heaviest, he weighed around 550 pounds. In his late thirties, standing 6’1” and facing serious health challenges, he made the life-changing decision to take control of his health. He realized that if he could transform himself, he might inspire millions of others to believe they could do the same.
“This is about my life!” Recently, country star Jelly Roll has been making headlines not just for his music, but for his major commitment to health. After many years of battling addiction, depression, and weight issues, Jelly Roll decided enough was enough.
In early 2024, he revealed he had lost over 70 pounds not through fad diets or gimmicks, but by getting serious about lifestyle changes. He began working with a trainer, committed to a walking routine (sometimes up to 6 miles a day), and overhauled his diet. In interviews, he’s said the motivation wasn’t just about appearance, it was about longevity and being there for his family.
Jelly Roll also shared how he’s reconnecting with activities he loves—like playing basketball—as a way to build healthier habits. During his appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, he mentioned, “We’re playing basketball three days a week now,” highlighting how movement has become a meaningful part of his transformation.
He is still on this journey today and has lost over 200 pounds, with a goal of losing 300 pounds. Sustainable change starts with a powerful motive. “This is about seeing my daughter graduate.” Whether its family, freedom, or feeling better in your body, having a “why” helps keep you going. When you ground your journey in something deeper than just the number on the scale, motivation becomes more meaningful and sustainable.
Kelly Clarkson: Listening to Her Body
Kelly has been open with the media about her recent weight loss journey. With a combination of a high-protein diet, exercise, consulting with a doctor, and weight loss medication (brand undisclosed), she has lost 60 pounds, dropping from 203 to 143pounds.
“Everybody thinks it’s Ozempic, but it’s not. It’s something else.” Clarkson explained how the medication is “something that aids in helping break down the sugar,” noting how her body “doesn’t do it right.”
In recent interviews, Kelly has shared that her weight loss came as the result of following her doctor’s advice. She revealed that underlying health issues were affecting her blood sugar regulation, and her doctor recommended a GLP-1 medication to help support her health.
One of the most refreshing parts of Kelly’s journey is her refusal to frame weight loss as a personal triumph or “success story.” She makes it clear that her worth isn’t tied to her weight, and she continues to advocate for self-love at every size.
“There are always going to be people who say something. I’ve been on both sides of the scale in front of the camera. What matters most is how I feel,” Kelly shared. Since moving to New York, she’s embraced a more active lifestyle, enjoying daily walks around parks and museums and even indulging in the occasional ice cream run.
Kelly’s story is a powerful reminder that medical conditions can significantly impact weight, and that seeking professional guidance can make a meaningful difference. When used responsibly and under medical supervision, GLP-1 medications can be a valuable tool in a broader health journey. After all, weight loss isn’t just about appearance, it’s about feeling your best and prioritizing overall wellness.
Oprah Winfrey: The Power of Owning Your Journey
Oprah Winfrey has spent decades in the public eye, openly struggling with her weight. At her heaviest in 1992, Oprah weighed 237 pounds. From full liquid diets in the 1980s to joining Weight Watchers—and even undergoing surgery—she has tried nearly every approach in search of lasting success. In 2019, following a pre-diabetes diagnosis, she became a part-owner of Weight Watchers in hopes of regaining control over her health. Yet, despite her many efforts, her weight continued to fluctuate.
In 2024, Oprah openly shared that she had been using weight loss medication alongside lifestyle changes to achieve a weight she felt comfortable with. Her recent journey began after undergoing knee surgery, which prompted her to adopt healthier eating habits and a consistent exercise routine. She found that the medication helped her avoid the cycle of “yo-yo” dieting that had plagued her in the past. With the support of medication and sustainable lifestyle changes, she has lost nearly 50 pounds and is now approaching her goal of 160 pounds.
“I realized I’d been blaming myself all these years for being overweight, and I have a predisposition that no amount of willpower is going to control. Obesity is a disease. It’s not about willpower; it’s about the brain”
She has been vocal about the importance of removing shame from the conversation around weight and believes that taking care of your health is a deeply personal journey. While she acknowledges the benefits of weight loss medication, she emphasizes that it’s not a “magic fix.” Her success has also required clean eating, regular exercise, and a strong commitment to mental well-being.
In conclusion, these celebrities may have their stories in the spotlight, but their experiences are deeply personal—just like yours. Some have used GLP-1 medications to support their goals, while others have leaned into movement, mindset, or medical care. No matter the path, one thing remains true: real change takes courage, consistency, and compassion.
If you’re curious about whether GLP-1 medications could support your journey—or just looking to take the next step in your health—Premier Weight Loss is here to guide you with compassion and personalized care every step of the way.
Related Readings:
“Weight Loss For Health And Longevity”
“The Best Supplements To Support Weight Loss (And Which To Skip)”
Sources:
- Yasharoff, H. (2024, May 29). Jelly Roll shares 70-pound weight loss update and intense workout regimen. TODAY. https://www.today.com/health/jelly-roll-weight-loss-rcna151421
- Slater, M. (2024, January 9). Kelly Clarkson reveals weight loss was guided by a doctor and aided by medication. TODAY. https://www.today.com/health/kelly-clarkson-weight-loss-rcna131969
- Warner, S., & Lewin, K. (2024, June 5). Celebrities who’ve had dramatic weight loss transformations. People. https://people.com/celebrities-who-had-dramatic-weight-loss-transformations-11725802
- Leon, A. (2023, December 13). Oprah Winfrey reveals she uses weight loss medication: ‘I’m done with the shaming’. People. https://people.com/oprah-winfrey-reveals-weight-loss-medication-exclusive-8414552
Yasharoff, H. (2023, December 14). Oprah Winfrey explains why she chose to take weight loss medication. TODAY. https://www.today.com/health/diet-fitness/oprah-winfrey-weight-loss-drug-rcna128714