Valerie Bertinelli’s candid social media post wasn’t just about self-love and kindness—netizens were quick to point out something about her appearance.
After receiving criticism for her previous underwear photo, Valerie Bertinelli shared a heartfelt message on Instagram. However, in her lengthy follow-up post, eagle-eyed followers noticed more than just her statement.
A netizen’s remark on Valerie Bertinelli’s lengthy message, posted on December 4, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/wolfiesmom
In her lengthy message, the 64-year-old actress reflected on self-love, overcoming judgment, and embracing her body. She began by thanking those who resonated with her message and offering gratitude for their support before addressing critics of her appearance.
A netizen’s comment on Valerie Bertinelli’s lengthy message, posted on December 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/wolfiesmom
“To all of you that would sit in judgment of my body, the photo, and my reason for posting it, I hope you find a place in your heart to not judge yourself as harshly as you judge others,” Bertinelli wrote.
Valerie Bertinelli appears on “Today” on January 7, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
The actress shared that she has faced judgment from a young age but emphasized that only her own perspective, shaped by “patient discernment,” truly matters. Over the years, Bertinelli has turned inward, choosing to focus on personal character rather than external perceptions.
Bertinelli reflected on the importance of focusing on personal character rather than physical appearance. She emphasized self-awareness, questioning whether she treats others with kindness and identifying factors—such as ego or emotions—that might hinder her growth.
Valerie Bertinelli at Build Studio, New York City, on August 21, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
With hard-won confidence, she shared that it took nearly three years of emotional labor to overcome self-doubt and free herself from the weight of others’ opinions. This journey was compounded by physical setbacks earlier this year, which, though challenging, ultimately strengthened her resolve.
Valerie Bertinelli is honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in California on August 22, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Now, she has reached a point where outside judgments no longer affect her. “I don’t care what you think of my body. I don’t care what you think about my posting about it,” she affirmed.
“For the first time in my life, I love my body as it is,” Bertinelli shared, acknowledging that she once hated her youthful body despite its beauty. Reflecting on her experiences, she concluded, “I am grateful for this journey and I wouldn’t trade this body for my 20 year old [sic] body any day. Ever.”
Valerie Bertinelli attends the 39th Annual Emmy Awards on September 20, 1987 | Source: Getty Images
Accompanying her statement were mirror selfies showing her in a black top, glasses, ripped-flare jeans, and black shoes, with one hand in her pocket and the other holding her phone.
Valerie Bertinelli’s mirror selfie, posted on December 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/wolfiesmom
Bertinelli’s post quickly garnered a flurry of reactions, ranging from admiration to curiosity and lighthearted commentary. One user humorously remarked, “You’re pretty much stating the mantra of the nudist community.”
Meanwhile, others couldn’t help but notice, “Wow. Now you look too thin,” while another curious follower asked, “How did u loose weight [sic]?”
A fan praised her appearance while expressing curiosity, “Wow, you look amazing. Did you stop drinking and do you think that has something to do with you losing weight?” Another speculated further, “Are you on any of the weight loss medications or did you do it just by eating right?”
Some responses expressed support and empathy, acknowledging the negativity Bertinelli has faced in the past. One follower shared their disbelief, “Wait, people were judging you in that past post? All I could think was how wonderful you looked, definitely want your secret. I just don’t understand people anymore, so nasty.”
Valerie Bertinelli appears in “The Kelly Clarkson Show” on March 30, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Another user commended Bertinelli’s confidence and resilience, “You look great no matter what size clothing you wear. So happy that you’re able to put other people’s judgments out of your head!!”
Bertinelli’s emotional message and the netizens’ reactions followed her recent underwear mirror selfie on social media.
In the makeup-free bathroom shot, the Hollywood star stood near a sink, wearing a black two-piece outfit. Her hair was down as she held up a box of hair dye to the camera.
Bertinelli captioned the post, “At some point I will talk about the madness my body has been through this year. But right now every lump bump wrinkle and saggy part of me just feels acceptance and simple appreciation to be standing in front of a mirror in a hotel bathroom in downtown Manhattan ready to color my roots late on a Monday night.”
