Lili Reinhart, best known for her role as Betty Cooper on Riverdale, recently revealed that she battled an eating disorder while filming the popular CW series. The actress shared her experiences during an interview with Self on January 22, where she spoke candidly about her struggles with body image and self-confidence.
“I really don’t like looking at season 6 imagery or pictures, because I know that 99 percent of my thoughts were about my body,” Reinhart, 28, admitted. The pressures of being in the public eye and filming scenes requiring her to expose her body left her feeling disassociated. “I was a thousand percent just disassociated through that entire day or scene because my entire inner dialogue is just … ‘Your body’s changing,’” she added.
Reinhart has previously been transparent about her insecurities, responding to fans on social media about how intimidating it felt to be surrounded by castmates with chiseled physiques. Her honesty provided a rare glimpse into the challenges of maintaining self-confidence under the glaring spotlight of Hollywood.
Navigating Body Image Expectations in Hollywood
Throughout her time on Riverdale, Reinhart grappled with the expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry. She recalled feeling pressured to maintain a specific body image, which often conflicted with her own self-perception. “I’ve felt very insecure due to the expectation that people have for women on TV, what they should look like,” Reinhart explained, emphasizing that her body didn’t conform to typical runway standards.
Despite these insecurities, Reinhart used her platform to promote body positivity and authenticity. She expressed a desire to inspire other young women by showing confidence on screen, even when she didn’t feel it internally. “I want other young women to see my body on TV and feel comfort in the fact that I’m not a size 0. And I’m not a perfect hourglass shape,” she shared, highlighting the importance of representation for all body types.
Reinhart’s vulnerability and openness about her struggles have made her a relatable figure for fans who face similar challenges. Her efforts to balance personal insecurities with professional obligations showcase her resilience and commitment to empowering others.
Facing Chronic Health Challenges
In addition to her struggles with body image, Reinhart has also been dealing with a debilitating chronic illness. Despite consulting multiple doctors, she has yet to receive a definitive diagnosis, though she has been told she might have interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic condition that causes bladder irritation and inflammation.
Reinhart described the physical and emotional toll of her symptoms, which mimic persistent urinary tract infections without the presence of infection. “The second I’m done peeing, I still feel like I have to pee, but my pee is showing up with no infection,” she explained, detailing how frustrating and dehumanizing the medical journey has been.
Currently undergoing weekly bladder instillations—a treatment that involves inserting medicine directly into the urethra—Reinhart is navigating her condition with determination. She hopes to raise awareness about IC and the challenges many women face in seeking treatment for such conditions.
Advocating for Others and Herself
Reinhart’s decision to share her health struggles stems from a desire to support others who may feel alone in their battles. “No one ever knows what [interstitial cystitis] is when I talk about it,” she noted. “But my urogyno is telling me so many women have this, and that’s why I think it’s as important as it is to just be like, ‘Hey, I’m dealing with it too.’”
By speaking openly about her experiences, Reinhart has become an advocate for both mental and physical health awareness. Her transparency helps to break down stigmas surrounding eating disorders and chronic illnesses, encouraging others to seek the help they need.
Through her candid revelations, Reinhart continues to use her platform to inspire and uplift others. Her willingness to confront her challenges head-on, both publicly and privately, reflects her commitment to authenticity and self-growth.
Resources for Those in Need
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, help is available. Visit the National Eating Disorders (NEDA) website or call their hotline at (800) 931-2237 for support and resources. Lili Reinhart’s journey serves as a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles, and seeking help is a brave and vital step toward healing.
