Delta Burke, a celebrated television star of the 1980s, rose to fame with her vibrant portrayal of Suzanne Sugarbaker on Designing Women. While she gained the admiration of millions for her sharp wit and comedic brilliance, she also faced intense public scrutiny, particularly regarding her body image. The weight gain she experienced became the focal point of harsh tabloid criticism, leading to a deeply challenging period in her life. But through it all, one constant source of support was her devoted husband, Gerald McRaney, whose love and encouragement were instrumental in her healing.
The Struggles of Fame
In 1986, Burke secured the iconic role of Suzanne Sugarbaker, a character that earned her fame and recognition. However, the pressures of stardom began to take a toll on her mental health. Struggling with depression, Burke often found herself withdrawing from the world, seeking solace in isolation. By the show’s fourth season, her panic attacks became more pronounced, leaving her emotionally drained and vulnerable.
While her co-stars, including Dixie Carter, provided comfort, it was the relentless judgment from the media about her changing figure that caused the most harm. Burke later confessed that the constant media mockery was emotionally taxing, stating, “The tabloid machine tortured me.” The weight-related criticisms compounded her struggles, triggering unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating, which led to further weight gain. This vicious cycle not only affected her professionally, but also personally, contributing to emotional distress.
Despite the harsh tabloid attention, Burke found solace in her work. She drew strength from the groundbreaking Designing Women episode “They Shoot Fat Women, Don’t They,” which tackled body image issues head-on. This bold episode not only earned Burke an Emmy nomination but also a standing ovation, affirming her resilience in the face of public judgment.
Support from Her Husband, Gerald McRaney
Burke’s life took a profound turn when she met fellow actor Gerald McRaney in 1987. The chemistry was immediate, and McRaney knew he had found his lifelong partner. As Burke fondly recalled, he proposed on their second date, demonstrating his certainty about their future together. They married in 1989 in a lavish ceremony, with 500 guests in attendance.
Throughout their marriage, McRaney became Burke’s unwavering rock. His support was a crucial factor in her journey toward self-acceptance. While the media continued to scrutinize her weight, McRaney remained steadfast, assuring her that her physical appearance was irrelevant to him. “The weight never mattered to him,” Burke affirmed. His deep love and commitment allowed her to focus on healing, helping her rebuild her confidence.
During a difficult period after her departure from Designing Women in 1991, Burke found herself emotionally shattered and reached out to McRaney for help. He immediately came to her side, offering reassurance and emotional strength that enabled her to regain her footing. “If what you want is a trophy wife, then be happy with how empty and vacuous that’ll turn out to be,” McRaney said, emphasizing his love for her as a person, not her appearance. Their bond only grew stronger over the years, and in 2017, McRaney paid an emotional tribute to Burke during his Emmy speech, solidifying the depth of their connection.
A New Chapter
In the 1990s, Burke sought a fresh start, relocating to New Orleans with McRaney. There, she embraced a quieter life away from the spotlight, launching a plus-size clothing line and penning her memoir, Delta Style: Eve Wasn’t a Size 6 and Neither Am I. Though she faced additional challenges, including the loss of her grandmother and a diabetes diagnosis, Burke’s resilience shone through. Her weight naturally stabilized, and she embraced her new life with a sense of peace, largely due to the constant support of McRaney.
Burke also bravely opened up about her past struggles with methamphetamine use to control her weight, a dark chapter she had kept hidden for years. With McRaney by her side, she was able to move past the pain of her past, finding healing and strength in their enduring love.
A Lasting Legacy of Love
McRaney and Burke’s relationship is a powerful testament to the strength of unconditional love and mutual support. Despite the ups and downs, they have remained committed to each other, embracing their quirks and imperfections. As McRaney humorously put it, “We embrace each other’s insanity.” Their bond is grounded in trust, respect, and a deep understanding of one another’s struggles.
In reflecting on their journey together, Burke expressed, “I love my life truly for the first time. And I love him desperately.” Their story stands as a reminder that true love transcends superficial judgments and can provide the foundation for overcoming life’s greatest challenges.
Through the highs and lows, Delta Burke and Gerald McRaney have demonstrated the power of love to heal, support, and transform. Their partnership continues to inspire, showing that love, in its most authentic form, is a force that endures through all seasons of life.
