Delta Burke Reflects on Contentious Departure from Designing Women in Rare Interview

Delta Burke, known for her role as Suzanne Sugarbaker on the hit sitcom “Designing Women,” recently opened up about her contentious departure from the show in 1991. In a rare interview with the “Glamorous Trash” podcast, Burke reflected on the challenges she faced during her time on the show and the aftermath of her departure.

Burke revealed that she initially loved working on “Designing Women” but things started to change, and she struggled to cope with the pressures of fame. She expressed a desire to leave the show but was not allowed to, leading to a difficult period in her career. Despite the challenges, Burke acknowledged that staying on the show gave her the opportunity to play an amazing character and evolve as an actress.

The actress also discussed her complicated relationship with series creator Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, describing it as a “love-hate” dynamic. Burke credited Bloodworth-Thomason for her mentorship but also acknowledged the issues that arose between them during their time working together.

Burke’s departure from “Designing Women” was surrounded by controversy, with accusations of psychological abuse and pressure to lose weight. The press scrutinized Burke’s weight gain, leading to her disillusionment with Hollywood and resorting to extreme measures to maintain her appearance.

Despite the challenges she faced in the industry, Burke found solace in her relationship with her husband, Gerald McRaney, whom she credits with loving her unconditionally. She eventually stepped away from Hollywood, choosing to focus on her personal life and finding joy outside of the entertainment industry.

Burke’s candid interview sheds light on the darker side of fame and the struggles she faced during her time on “Designing Women.” Her story serves as a reminder of the pressures actors face in the spotlight and the importance of prioritizing mental and emotional well-being in a demanding industry.