The Real Reason Jillian Michaels Left Biggest Loser

Jillian Michaels has opened up to People about her decision to leave  Biggest Loser after ten years of helping people to get in shape.

"I don't want fans to think I feel like I'm too big for the show or that I'm seeking greener pastures," she explained. "I'm so grateful to the show and so sad to leave."

However, Michaels said "there were some fundamental differences [withThe Biggest Loser producers] that have existed for a while."

Celebrity tans gone wrong

One of  those differences is how the series has portrayed Michaels in recent seasons. "In the beginning of the show, it was tough love. You saw the tough, and you saw the love," she said. The trainer noticed this shift, when the show began rarely showing her being helpful, instead zeroing in on her harsher moments. "You saw none of the relationships, none of the bonds that I build with my clients."

Michaels soon noticed how the show's editing techniques began affecting her daily life with girlfriend Heidi Rhoades, son Phoenix, 2, and daughter Lukensia, 4.  "Millions of people have this warped negative perception of me," Michaels said. Someone had even told her daughter at camp, "I know who your mom is — she's a cheater. I saw it on TV," referencing Michaels' allowing her team to take caffeine pills on the most recent season.

Dramatic celebrity weight loss

Michaels also noted the startling and controversial weight loss by last season's winner Rachel Frederickson, who appeared unhealthily thing at the finale. "I had to take a hard look at my work. I came to the conclusion that moving forward, I need to be able to have an impact on the outcome of what I do." 

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