When news broke out last week that Serena Williams, one of the world’s most famous tennis players, used a GLP-1 medication to lose weight, it sparked a fresh conversation about health and weight loss. 

For decades, the general advice around weight loss has been to restrict calories and exercise more. As one of the world’s premier athletes, Serena knows this better than anyone else—but after having kids, her body changed. What was simple before—maintaining a healthy weight—was now complicated. GLP-1 medication ended up being the missing piece to the puzzle that allowed her to get her body back to where it needed to be.

At Shed, we know that there is more than one path to weight loss. GLP-1s like tirzepatide and semaglutide are one tool that, when paired with healthy diet, exercise, and coaching, can help to create wellness that lasts.

Serena Williams’ journey with GLP-1s

Despite disciplined exercise and diet, Serena struggled to lose her postpartum weight. As a former athlete committed to fitness, it was baffling that she was doing everything “right” and was still unable to lose weight. 

This is what led her to trying a GLP-1 medication, which was the turning point she needed to finally start her 31-pound weight-loss journey. She emphasized that the GLP-1 didn’t replace her prior efforts (i.e., diet and exercise), but rather complemented them. From the beginning, her weight-loss goal was health-driven, and GLP-1 medication was an important part of helping her achieve her goal.

Why this matters: Using GLP-1s for weight loss is still relatively new, and some may see it as a “shortcut” to better health. But as Serena’s story shows, GLP-1s aren’t meant to be a quick fix to an annoying problem. They are merely another tool—an important one—in the toolbox that can help you make the changes you need to make.

Other celebrities who have used GLP-1s for weight loss

Serena is far from the first celebrity to use a GLP-1 for weight loss. Here are just a few others who have had a journey similar to Serena’s:

• Meghan Trainor: Meghan used Mounjaro® while working alongside a dietician and trainer to help lose her postpartum weight. She stressed the importance of habits and having “no shame” about using medication support to help her lose weight.
• Perez Hilton: Perez lost 60 pounds on Ozempic®. He said it helped quiet the “food noise” when paired with meal planning and healthy eating.
• Other celebrities: Public figures like Oprah Winfrey, Kelly Clarkson, Lizzo, Tracy Morgan, Charles Barkley, Chelsea Handler, and Rebel Wilson have also discussed their experiences with GLP-1s, often underscoring appetite control and lifestyle change.

What these stories get right—and what Shed adds

These celebrities aren’t just chasing the latest hype. They are going about weight loss the right way, reaching their goals through a combination of healthy diet, exercise, and medication.

Shed offers a fully integrated care model, combining GLP-1 medication with coaching on nutrition, movement, mindset, and stress resilience. Medication is not a quick fix, but rather part of a broader strategy for sustainable lifestyle change. 

Why Shed’s approach works 

As interest in weight-loss medications grows, holistic weight-loss support is more important than ever. From day 1, Shed’s approach has been to bring all the support you need under one umbrella, making it easier to not only get started, but to maintain healthy habits over time.

• Clinical oversight: Every prescription is accompanied by personalized care and monitoring.
• Behavioral support: Tackling underlying habits is critical for long-term results.
• Accessibility: We make GLP-1 meds more accessible through coverage support.
• Sustainable mindset: We prioritize lifestyle shifts over short-term outcomes.

Celebrity weight-loss journeys can inspire our own. Shed is committed to turning these inspirations into real, long-lasting wellness journeys—with you in control. Visit tryshed.com today to learn more or to start your wellness journey.

FAQs

Why are GLP-1s so popular among celebrities?

Celebrities face unique pressures around appearance and health. GLP-1 medications support them in their goals, helping to reduce appetite and cravings and making it easier to stick with long-term lifestyle changes. Their openness about using GLP-1s has helped normalize weight-loss medications for the general public.

Can anyone use a GLP-1 for weight loss?

GLP-1 medications require a prescription and medical oversight. If you’re wondering if you’re a good candidate for GLP-1s for weight loss, consult your doctor or visit tryshed.com to learn more. At Shed, patients received personalized care, coaching, and monitoring to ensure safe treatment and sustainable results.

Can GLP-1 medications help you lose weight quickly?

GLP-1s are not a magic fix to weight management. They are most effective when combined with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and behavioral support. GLP-1s should complement your healthy habits, not replace them.