In an exclusive preview for the August 5 episode of My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Whitney Way Thore, now 41, opens up about her return to ballet as a meaningful way to reconnect with her transformed physique after significant weight loss She described how living in a “smaller body” can feel surreal:
- “I haven’t had to check to see if I can fit in a booth or a chair in like two years,” she shares.
- “But it’s still disorienting … The only way I have found to accomplish that is through movement, through dance.”
During the ballet class, her instructor Sarah praised Whitney’s grace and encouraged her to embrace her ability, emphasizing that “dance is accessible to every person and every body” . The moment clearly moved Whitney, highlighting the emotional and empowering aspects of reclaiming her body through dance.
More context on Whitney’s journey:
- She initially rose to fame after the viral video “A Fat Girl Dancing” and later launched My Big Fat Fabulous Life, openly addressing body positivity and navigating life with PCOS-enabled weight challenges
- By 2023, Whitney had lost around 100 pounds through lifestyle changes, grief processing, and increased movement—without surgical interventions. She maintains a weight of about 285 pounds and emphasizes that her transformation is rooted in self-acceptance—not societal pressure
Why ballet now?
Ballet represents more than an art form—it’s a physical and emotional anchor for Whitney. By revisiting dance, she finds clarity and connection in a body that feels unfamiliar yet liberated. This journey reflects her belief that healing comes through movement that aligns with who she is today rather than chasing past ideals.