This isn’t just about numbers on a scale. It’s about finding a way to love myself, to move through the world with a little more ease, and to show up for my life—on set, in relationships, and in my own head—without all that extra weight holding me back. If you’ve ever stared in the mirror and wondered how to start over, stick with me. My story’s messy, real, and maybe a little like yours.
The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything
A Hospital Bed and a Hard Truth
I’ll never forget that birthday. I was working crazy hours as a talent agent, chasing dreams that weren’t even mine anymore. I’d moved to L.A. hoping to act, but life had other plans—bills, stress, and a marriage that wasn’t quite working. Food was my comfort, my escape. I’d pile my plate high, not even tasting it half the time, and before I knew it, I’d gained over 100 pounds. I was around 300 pounds, and my body was screaming for help.
That panic attack wasn’t just a fluke. The doctors looked me in the eye and said, “You can’t keep going like this.” Not just my weight—they meant my whole life. My soul, my spirit, my mind, my body—it was all out of sync. I remember lying there, thinking, Am I really doing this to myself? That’s when I decided: no more. I wasn’t going to let fear or food run the show anymore.
Why It Had to Be for Me
I’ve always been the “chubby” kid. Even at 3 or 4, I was rounder than my friends, always aware of it. By 11, I was the youngest one in the Weight Watchers room, my mom trying so hard to help but not knowing how. Growing up, food was love in our house—big family dinners, plates piled high. But it was also my shield. When my stepfather made cruel comments about my size or stared while I ate, I’d turn to food to numb the hurt. Sound familiar? Maybe you’ve got your own version of that shield.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t want to lose weight for Hollywood or some casting Besides, I wasn’t trying to fit into anyone’s idea of “perfect.” I wanted to be healthy for me. “I’m doing this because I’m nervous about aging, about osteoporosis or arthritis,” I told myself. “I want to age the best way I can, and I want to be strong.” That’s what kept me going—not a dress size, but a life I could live fully.
How I Dropped 100 Pounds in Five Months
A Simple Plan That Actually Worked
People always ask, “How’d you do it?” They expect some big secret—a magic pill, a surgery, maybe even Ozempic. Nope. I kept it so simple you might not believe it worked. I ate 2,000 calories a day and walked 20 minutes daily. That’s it. No crash diets, no hours at the gym. Just real food—think grilled chicken, heaps of veggies, maybe a sweet potato—and moving my body consistently.
I cut out the junk. No more sugary snacks or fried stuff that left me sluggish. I focused on whole foods, things that made me feel good, not deprived. Portion control was huge—I’d eat smaller, nutrient-packed meals to keep my energy steady. It wasn’t about starving myself; it was about choosing better. “I’m not selling skinny—I’m selling healthy,” I’d remind myself when the scale tempted me to obsess.
Walking was my exercise. Nothing fancy, just 20-minute strolls around my neighborhood or a park. “It’s not about running marathons or lifting heavy weights,” I’d tell myself. “It’s about showing up every day.” Those steps added up, and soon I was shedding pounds—20 a month, to be exact. Crazy, right?
No Shortcuts, No Surgery
Let’s clear this up: I didn’t use Ozempic or any weight-loss meds. “I don’t even take Tylenol,” I’d laugh when people asked. No gastric bypass either. This was all me—my feet, my will, my heart. I’m not against those options for others—“Do what feels right for your body,” I’d say—but for me, it was about building habits I could stick with forever.
Finding Strength in the Gym (and in Myself)
Why I Fell in Love with Weight Lifting
Fast forward to 2025, and I’m living in Nashville, stronger than ever. I’ve added weight lifting to my routine, and let me tell you, it’s my jam. “I’ve always enjoyed strength training,” I’d tell my trainer, who’s become like family. He gets me—he’s been on his own weight-loss journey, so there’s no judgment, just support. “I don’t want to be yelled at,” I’d joke. “I want to be lovingly supported.”
Lifting weights makes me feel powerful, like I’m building more than muscle—I’m building a future where I’m flexible, strong, and ready for anything. Running? Not my thing unless I’m being chased! But give me a dumbbell, and I’m all in.
A Trainer Who Changed the Game
Having someone in my corner made a difference. My trainer doesn’t just bark orders; he listens. We’d chat about life, not just reps, and that connection kept me coming back. “We have things in common,” I’d say, grateful for someone who didn’t make me feel like a project. If you’re thinking about getting help, find someone who sees you, not just your goals.
The Emotional Weight I Let Go
Healing the Hurt
Losing 100 pounds wasn’t just about my body—it was about my heart. Growing up, I carried so much shame. My stepfather’s words cut deep, and I’d eat to bury the pain. Playing Kate Pearson on This Is Us was like holding a mirror to my life. Kate’s struggles with weight, her guilt, her search for self-worth—I got it. “Wow, I am Kate,” I’d think, reading those scripts.
Therapy helped me unpack it all. I started asking, “Why am I hurting my body with food?” It wasn’t just about calories—it was about trauma, my parents’ unresolved stuff, all bubbling up. Facing that was harder than any diet, but it set me free. “I’m finally at peace with myself,” I’d smile, knowing it was true.
Self-Love Over Scale Numbers
I stopped obsessing over the scale because, honestly, it messes with my head. “Bodies don’t define us,” I’d remind myself. I lost weight on my own timeline, not for anyone else. “It’s not for anybody but myself,” I’d say, and I meant it. That’s why I’m all about body positivity—every body is beautiful, big or small. Loving yourself? That’s the real win.
Life After 100 Pounds: What’s Changed?
Confidence That Shines
Dropping from 300 to 200 pounds changed how I move through the world. I feel lighter—not just physically, but in my spirit. On the red carpet, I’m not hiding anymore. I’m smiling, chatting with fans, owning my space. “I feel so much stronger and more in control of my destiny,” I’d beam. It’s not about fitting into a mold—it’s about being the best Chrissy I can be.
My career’s thriving too. This Is Us opened doors, but this new confidence? It’s landing me roles that show my range. “I’m proud of the woman I’ve become,” I’d say, and it’s not just talk. I’m living it.
Inspiring Others (Including You!)
My story’s touched people in ways I never expected. Fans tell me they’ve started walking, eating better, or just being kinder to themselves because of me. “So many women have shared their experiences,” I’d nod, grateful to be part of their journey. That’s why I keep talking about this—not to brag, but to say, “If I can do it, so can you.”
What’s holding you back? Maybe it’s fear, like it was for me. Or maybe you think it’s too late. Spoiler: it’s not. Start small—swap a soda for water, take a 10-minute walk. Those little choices? They’re your power. “Determine what makes you happy and how to get there,” I’d tell you. You’ve got this.
What’s Next for Me?
Staying Strong, Staying Real
I’m still on this journey. I keep up my 2,000-calorie diet, my walks, my weights. But more than that, I’m focused on self-care—being kind to myself, even on tough days. “I want to be healthy—mentally, physically, emotionally,” I’d say. That’s my north star.
I’m also writing, acting, living my truth. My second children’s book’s out, and I’m in a relationship that feels right. Life’s not perfect, but it’s mine, and I’m showing up for it.
A Call to You
So, here’s my question: what’s one tiny step you could take today? Maybe it’s a walk around the block or saying no to that extra cookie. Share it in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on! And if my story’s got you thinking, pass it along. Let’s keep this vibe going.
FAQ: Your Questions About My Weight Loss, Answered
How fast did Chrissy lose weight? I shed 100 pounds in less than five months—about 20 pounds a month. It was intense but steady, sticking to 2,000 calories a day and walking 20 minutes daily.
Did Chrissy use Ozempic or surgery? Nope, no Ozempic, no surgery. I laugh about it because I barely take Tylenol! It was all diet and exercise—my own hard work.
What diet did Chrissy follow? I ate a 2,000-calorie diet full of whole foods—veggies, lean proteins, whole grains. Portion control was key, and I ditched sugary and fried stuff.
How much weight did Chrissy lose exactly? I went from around 300 pounds to 200 pounds, so 100 pounds total. I don’t sweat the exact numbers anymore—it’s about feeling good.
What motivated Chrissy to lose weight? A panic attack on my 30th birthday scared me straight. I wanted to be healthy for myself, to live strong and long, not for anyone else’s approval.