Drew Carey, the ever-popular comedian and host of The Price Is Right, is a man who’s not afraid to let his life and its ups and downs unfold in front of millions. But what happened when his life took a dramatic turn—not because of a new TV gig or a career-changing move, but because of his health? In 2010, Drew Carey did what many thought was impossible: he lost 80 pounds, dropping from 300 pounds to 220 pounds, in an effort that changed the course of his life.
Let’s be clear: this wasn’t just about fitting into a smaller suit or impressing a crowd with a slimmer frame. This weight loss was a necessity. It was a fight for his health, his life, and his happiness. But like any true transformation, Drew’s weight loss journey wasn’t smooth sailing. It was a process of overcoming mental and physical barriers, battling through temptations, and ultimately finding a sense of self-worth that had been buried for far too long.
“It Was Miserable to Live Like That”
Drew Carey didn’t just wake up one day and decide to lose weight. In fact, it wasn’t until a major wake-up call from his doctor that he realized he couldn’t ignore his weight anymore. Drew had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a condition that runs rampant in individuals who are significantly overweight. It was this diagnosis, along with some harsh truths, that pushed Drew to take action. “It was miserable to live like that,” Drew said in interviews, reflecting on the years spent in a body that didn’t reflect how he felt inside.
At the time, his waistline had ballooned to a 44-inch measurement, a constant reminder of his struggles. “I couldn’t do the things I loved, I couldn’t feel good in my own skin, and most importantly, I wasn’t healthy,” Drew confessed. He knew something had to change—and change fast. His path forward wasn’t just about shedding pounds; it was about reclaiming a life that felt full and purposeful again.
The Plan: A Combination of Carbs, Cardio, and Consistency
Drew Carey’s weight loss didn’t happen overnight. Far from it. The transformation was the result of months of strict discipline and lifestyle changes. His diet was stripped down to the essentials: low carbs, high protein, and lots of water. Gone were the days of indulging in carb-heavy meals. Instead, Drew committed to a low-carb, high-protein diet, a strategy that he credits for making the biggest difference in his transformation.
But it wasn’t just about the food. Drew also tackled his exercise routine with the same intensity. Cardio became his new best friend. Whether it was a 45-minute treadmill session or some high-energy spinning, Drew made sure to carve time out for exercise multiple times a week. And it wasn’t always easy. Let’s face it—when you’re over 300 pounds, the idea of exercising regularly seems like an insurmountable challenge. But Drew wasn’t willing to give up.
“You just keep going,” Drew said about the hardest part of his journey. “Even when you feel like quitting, you have to take the next step. Even if that step is slow, it’s a step forward.”
This tenacity, combined with the discipline of his diet and workout regimen, led to one of the most visible transformations in Hollywood. Within seven months, Drew had shed an astonishing 80 pounds, reaching 220 pounds, a figure that not only transformed his body but also reversed his type 2 diabetes. That’s right—his blood sugar levels dropped, and for the first time in years, Drew’s doctor told him his diabetes was under control.
The Mental Struggle: More Than Just Weight
But the physical changes, as remarkable as they were, weren’t the whole story. For Drew, the mental and emotional journey was just as important as the weight he lost. In an honest reflection of his process, Drew shared that the hardest part of his weight loss was overcoming the emotional habits that had kept him overweight for so long. “You have to retrain your brain,” Drew said. “I had years of using food as a coping mechanism. Learning how to cope without food—that’s where the real battle lies.”
This is a part of the journey that many people often overlook when talking about weight loss. It’s easy to focus on the diet and exercise. But without addressing the emotional reasons behind overeating—whether it’s stress, loneliness, or old habits—the battle is lost before it even starts. Drew’s transformation wasn’t just about changing what he ate; it was about changing how he thought about food and his relationship with it.
Through therapy, mindfulness, and a lot of self-reflection, Drew learned to conquer the psychological barriers that had been keeping him trapped. “It’s not just about the food. It’s about what’s inside your head,” Drew emphasized. He also mentioned how the support of loved ones played a major role in helping him stay committed to his journey.
“I Feel Way Better Now”
Fast forward to today, and Drew’s health is in a drastically different place. He’s no longer battling diabetes, and his energy levels are through the roof. As he told People magazine, “I feel way better now. My energy’s up. I’m not exhausted. I’m not worried about my health in the same way anymore.”
In addition to the obvious physical benefits, Drew’s mental clarity and sense of well-being have improved significantly. “There’s this mental weight that lifts when you know you’re doing the right things for your body,” Drew shared. This sense of accomplishment and relief extends beyond the scales—he feels free from the chains that once held him back.
However, Drew doesn’t just stop at his personal success. He’s committed to spreading the message that weight loss is achievable and that it doesn’t require drastic shortcuts or miracle pills. His message is one of sustainability, hard work, and consistency. “You can’t just want it—you have to work for it every day. It’s a long process, but if you commit, it’s totally worth it.”
The Public’s Reaction: A Celebration of Change
Unsurprisingly, Drew’s 80-pound weight loss has caught the attention of the public in a big way. Fans have cheered him on, praising his commitment and celebrating his health triumphs. On social media, Drew’s transformation has sparked discussions about mental health, fitness, and the importance of self-care. His journey has resonated deeply with people who are struggling with similar health issues and is serving as an inspiration for anyone hoping to take control of their own health.
“It’s amazing how many people have reached out to me saying they’re inspired by my story,” Drew said, reflecting on the support he’s received from his fans. “If I can help someone else make that change, then everything was worth it.”
Drew Carey’s Weight Loss Legacy
Drew Carey’s weight loss isn’t just a physical transformation—it’s a life-changing journey that has affected every area of his life, from his health to his confidence to his overall happiness. Drew’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a shift in mindset. It shows that anyone can make positive changes, no matter where they start.
His journey is also a reminder that weight loss is a deeply personal process, one that requires more than just a commitment to diet and exercise—it requires a commitment to yourself.
For anyone out there struggling with their own weight or health issues, Drew’s story is a shining example of what’s possible when you decide to take control of your future. As Drew would say, “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What diet did Drew Carey follow to lose weight?
Drew followed a low-carb diet combined with plenty of water and regular exercise. He specifically limited carbohydrates and focused on high-protein meals.
2. How long did it take Drew Carey to lose 80 pounds?
Drew lost 80 pounds in about seven months through a combination of diet changes and consistent exercise.
3. Did Drew Carey have weight loss surgery?
No, Drew Carey did not undergo any form of weight loss surgery. His transformation was achieved through diet and exercise alone.
4. Has Drew Carey kept the weight off?
Yes, Drew Carey has maintained his weight loss for several years. His dedication to a healthy lifestyle has helped him keep the weight off.
5. What advice does Drew Carey give to others wanting to lose weight?
Drew advises people to commit to sustainable lifestyle changes, focusing on consistency in both diet and exercise. He also emphasizes the importance of mental health and dealing with emotional eating.
