Valerie Bertinelli fights back against body-shaming over her selfie

In a powerful social media statement, Valerie Bertinelli, an actress known for her roles in 'One Day at a Time' and 'Hot in Cleveland,' addressed body shaming she encountered after sharing a bra-and-underwear selfie. This response came as she celebrated her self-love journey, which she detailed through her Instagram account. Her admission highlighted that it took her nearly three years of emotional labor to reach a point of acceptance with her body. This transformation was not just physical but delved deeper into her character and emotional well-being. Bertinelli articulated her long-standing struggle with self-judgment, noting how society's criticisms have impacted her self-esteem for much of her life. In her message, she emphasized the importance of being kind to oneself and understanding that the judgment that truly matters comes from within. She also reflected on the changes her body has undergone over the years, acknowledging that she no longer holds the same negative feelings about it as she did in her youth. The actress shared her journey of achieving personal freedom following her divorce from Tom Vitale, finalized in 2022. Bertinelli remarked on her growth during this time, celebrating her freedom from self-doubt and the intolerable aspects of her past relationship. She candidly mentioned that the two years following her separation have been pivotal in her developing a more profound self-acceptance. Encouraging her followers, she urged them to avoid harsh judgments of others and to focus on their inner character instead, reminding them that authentic self-love is not governed by external validation. Despite some negative feedback she received for her revealing post, the overwhelming response from her community has been overwhelmingly positive, showcasing the support and love she engenders among her followers. Ultimately, Bertinelli's journey illustrates a significant transformation, from self-hatred to a celebration of self-acceptance, encouraging others to embrace their bodies and the journey it represents.