Chaz Bono is winning his weightloss battle thanks to Dancing With The Stars - he's already lost five pounds in just six days of rehearsals.
Bono, who was born Chastity Bono, the daughter of Cher and Sonny Bono, has fought off much criticism after becoming the programme's first transgender competitor, following recent sex surgery to become a man.
He's set to show off his waltzing skills with dance pro partner Lacey Schwimmer this autumn (11), and his stint on the show is already proving to be a positive experience for the heavy-set star.
Schwimmer tells People.com, "He's lost five pounds in six days. It's so great. He says he's not eating any differently, he's just dancing."
And Schwimmer admits Bono isn't just making progress on his weightloss goals - he's making progress on the dance floor too.
She continues, "He's such a great guy. He is so nice, and he's such a kind person. He's awesome. I couldn't have asked for a better partner... When I first met him, he didn't want to do anything that made him look silly. Now he's all for it."
And although Bono and Schwimmer have already been branded the season's underdogs, the reality star has at least one big celebrity supporter in his corner - iconic singer Cher.
She adds, "Chaz has already told me he doesn't want to dance to any of his parents' songs. But the show really wants it to happen, so we'll see...
"Rumour has it that Cher wants to come to the show... So I hope that's still in the works. I'd love to meet her."
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