Valerie Bertinelli, the beloved actress and television host, recently found herself at the center of controversy after posting a mirror selfie in her underwear on Instagram. The 64-year-old shared the image as part of a candid reflection on her body and self-acceptance, captioning it with a message of gratitude for her journey through physical and emotional challenges over the years. However, the post garnered mixed reactions. With some applauding her confidence and others criticizing her for sharing such an intimate moment online.
In the Instagram post, Bertinelli embraced her imperfections. She stated, “Every lump, bump, wrinkle, and saggy part of me just feels acceptance.” She described her appreciation for her body after a tumultuous year of personal growth and physical struggles. For many, this post was a bold statement of body positivity, especially for someone in the public eye who has faced decades of scrutiny over her appearance.
While Valerie Bertinelli’s supporters praised her bravery and honesty, detractors questioned whether the post was appropriate. Comments ranged from accusing her of seeking attention to suggesting such a post was unnecessary for a woman of her age. This backlash highlighted ongoing societal discomfort with older women embracing their bodies in public ways.
Bertinelli addressed her critics with grace and defiance. In a follow-up post, she encouraged those passing judgment to reflect on their attitudes. Stating, “I hope you find a place in your heart to not judge yourself as harshly as you judge others.” She emphasized that her self-worth is not tied to others’ opinions, asserting that for the first time in her life, she truly loves her body as it is.
The actress has been open about her lifelong struggles with body image. Growing up in the spotlight, she faced public commentary about her weight from a young age. In her 2022 memoir, Enough Already: Learning to Love the Way I Am Today, Valerie Bertinelli detailed her journey toward self-love and how societal pressures shaped her views on her body.