*Kym Whitley, celebrated for her comedic roles in films like “Happy Gilmore 2,” is opening up about her personal health transformation. Through a new partnership with Eli Lilly, Whitley is sharing how Zepbound, an injectable prescription medication, has reshaped her approach to managing obesity.
The drug, designed for adults with obesity or those overweight with weight-related health issues, works alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to promote sustained weight loss. Zepbound, containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormone receptors to reduce appetite and food intake. It’s FDA-approved for chronic weight management and to improve moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.
Whitley’s collaboration with Lilly highlights her journey, emphasizing sustainable lifestyle changes over quick fixes. The medication is not intended for use in children or with other tirzepatide-containing products or GLP-1 receptor agonists.
This partnership reflects Whitley’s dedication to breaking the stigma around obesity as a chronic disease. By sharing her experience, she hopes to encourage open conversations about weight management and the role of medical support in achieving lasting health improvements.
Whitley’s candid story aims to inspire others facing similar challenges. By integrating Zepbound into her routine, she’s found a tool to support healthier choices, both on set and at home.
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— Mounjaro/ Zepbound (@tirzepatide_) July 28, 2025
You’ve had a busy and exciting year—from preparing for Happy Gilmore 2 to touring and podcasting—what inspired you to open up about your personal weight journey now, and why was Zepbound® part of that decision?
I finally found something that works for me, and I want to help other people by sharing my story because I know there’s millions of people out there who are going through the same thing. I want others to feel seen and understand that change may be possible. This isn’t about vanity – fitting into a dress. For me, it was about recognizing the parts of my life I wanted to be more engaged in – like being active with my son and being present in moments that matter. We need to change how we talk about obesity, as it is a chronic and complex disease. If sharing my story helps someone else feel less alone or gives them the confidence to start a conversation with their doctor, then it’s worth it. That’s why I’m doing this.
Can you share what your experience has been like using Zepbound® (tirzepatide) so far, and how it’s impacted your approach to weight management?
I’m eager to share my experience with Zepbound, and I’m definitely not shy about it! I want others to feel empowered to talk about it too. Managing obesity is hard, but support is out there, and real progress in your weight journey may be possible. I’ve lost weight, but for me, it is not about the number on the scale. And I don’t want people comparing themselves to me or anyone else. Everyone’s weight loss journey is different. What mattered to me was knowing I was truly managing my obesity. It wasn’t a quick fix, but it is a tool that gave me something steady to build on. I’ve made the decision to focus on what matters to me, like showing up for my son. And that feels good.
You’ve spoken about years of weight fluctuation. How has your journey with Zepbound® been different from past efforts?
I’ve struggled with my weight for most of my adult life. I’d lose it, gain it back, and repeat that cycle. I was doing the work – diet, exercise – but I needed more support as I was stuck in a cycle. After hearing about Zepbound from people I trusted, I asked my doctor about it. He explained what it is, and we decided together that it was right for me.
Why was partnering with Lilly important to you, and what message do you hope to send to others through this collaboration?
I’m partnering with Lilly and Zepbound to help elevate real stories and show people that there are tools and options out there, like Zepbound, that may help manage obesity. I want others to know it’s okay to ask for support. I’m sharing my own story with Zepbound because it’s something that helped me, but my goal is to help more people feel empowered to talk to their doctor and ask questions. So, talk to your doctor or visit zepbound.lilly.com to find out more.
As a mom, how have your priorities shifted when it comes to self-care and wellness, and what role has that played in your weight journey?
Once I became a mom, all my focus went onto my son. I was doing everything for him – eating whatever was left on his plate, skipping meals, never planning – and during that time my weight started to go up. I tried different diets and routines, but nothing seemed to work or stick. I wanted to make a change, but I just kept falling to the bottom of my own list.
After years of trying different methods to manage and maintain my weight loss, I felt like I hit a wall. I was tired–tired of the rollercoaster. Tired of putting myself last. I wanted to cross my legs without struggling. I wanted to tie my shoes without getting out of breath. I wanted to be more present with my son without feeling like I was holding him back. I heard about Zepbound from a few close friends, and I was intrigued. That gave me the push I needed to take that first step toward change and ask my doctor if Zepbound might be right for me.
I know it’s not easy. Obesity is a disease, and that’s something I’m passionate about helping others understand. Think about what motivates you, for me it was my son.
There’s often stigma around talking openly about weight and obesity. How do you hope to help change the conversation around weight management, especially for women in the spotlight?
Many people think living with obesity is just about eating too much or not trying hard enough. That’s not true. Obesity is often misunderstood. It is a disease, and it deserves to be treated like one, without shame or judgment. Being overlooked, dismissed, or treated differently because of your size wears on you.
I want to inspire others to understand the real struggles and stigma that people living with obesity face every day. How we speak about the disease needs to change. I’m a helper, I want to share my story with the hope that it will show others that they are not alone and change may be possible.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Kym Whitley Brings Her Comedic Flair to ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ | EUR Video Exclusive
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