Former Strictly Come Dancing star John Whaite has opened up about his five-year addiction to anabolic steroids, which he said 'made me want to end my life'. The 36-year-old, who won The Great British Bake Off in 2012 and came second on Strictly in 2021, shared an emotional video on Instagram detailing his struggle.
Whaite said he began taking steroids during lockdown 'because I looked in the mirror and hated what I saw'. He added that positive feedback on his appearance fuelled his addiction, making him feel 'valid'. He is now speaking out to warn young men about the dangers of pursuing unrealistic physiques promoted on social media.
In a caption accompanying the video, Whaite wrote: 'Steroid addiction – the truth. For the past 5 years I've let myself down, I haven't respected my body or my mind, I've put body image before my own wellbeing and before time with my family.' He declared: 'Steroids have made me want to end my life. That stops today. Right now.'
Whaite urged followers: 'You've only got one body, so please just respect it, please just let it do what it can do, don't try and push it, stretch, eat well, try and get to the place where you look in the mirror and you see yourself with kind eyes.'
The TV chef received an outpouring of support, with presenter Julia Bradbury and Bake Off star Frances Quinn among those sending messages of encouragement. The Samaritans can be contacted 24/7 on 116 123.
