Sherri Shepherd Reflects on Her 'Devastating' But Transformative Dancing With the Stars Journey

Sherri Shepherd may have bid farewell to the ballroom on "Dancing With the Stars," but her journey was anything but a loss. The vivacious talk show host candidly described her elimination as "devastating," a moment that clearly struck deep, even if she managed to hold back tears on camera.

Reflecting on the emotional whirlwind, Shepherd shared, "It was a moment, but you know what, I left it all on the floor." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates her approach to the demanding competition: give it absolutely everything you've got.

Despite the raw disappointment, she found solace in knowing she poured her heart and soul into every performance, making the most of her time on the hit show.

The bond formed with her professional partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, was a cornerstone of her experience. Shepherd praised Val, stating, "He was a good partner; he was really a great teacher, a good friend." This connection extended beyond the dance floor, highlighting the genuine friendships often forged under the intense pressure of the show.

She cherished the camaraderie with her fellow competitors, noting the unique bond that develops when you're all sharing such a transformative experience.

Beyond the glitter and the judges' scores, "Dancing With the Stars" offered Shepherd a profound personal journey. She revealed a remarkable physical transformation, shedding an impressive 25 pounds and gaining significant muscle.

"I feel great. My body feels better," she exclaimed, clearly proud of her newfound strength and vitality. This physical change was a testament to her dedication and the rigorous training regime.

Looking back, Shepherd expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity. "I got a chance to live out my dream to dance," she shared, emphasizing how much the experience meant to her.

She's not just walking away with memories; she's walking away with a renewed spirit and a promise to keep dancing. In a delightful declaration, she even hinted at a "Dancing With the Stars reunion tour" with her castmates, proving that the rhythm of the ballroom will continue to beat in her life long after the cameras stop rolling.