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Dolores Catania joined The Real Housewives of New Jersey for its seventh season. The TV personality quickly gained a fan following thanks to her straightforward demeanor, loyalty to her friends, and strong family values. With Catania’s candid nature comes honesty in nearly every facet of her life, including her health journey. The 53-year-old admitted to taking Ozempic as early as 2021, just as the weight loss trend began to take off in Hollywood and beyond. See her dramatic transformation and desire for more here.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania wears a tight red dress alongside her boyfriend Paulie Connell
Paulie Connell and Dolores Catania on July 31, 2024 in NYC | Raymond Hall/GC Images

Before her time on RHONJ, Catania worked first as a surgical technician and then as a corrections officer. The Paterson, New Jersey, native has always been into fitness and health, but many suspect that time in the spotlight took this to the next level. Recently, Catania and her boyfriend of three years, Paulie Connell, stepped out after taping Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. She donned a bright red lace gown that showed off her trim and toned figure, stopping paparazzi in their tracks.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania models a tight red dress outside an NYC building
Dolores Catania after filming ‘Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen’ | Raymond Hall/GC Images

Alexander McQueen’s Damask Knit Dress beautifully complemented Dolores Catania’s bronzed skin. The sold-out piece matched her red platform heels, which elevated her 5-foot-3 stature. The mother of two wore three diamond rings and diamond dangle earrings. She carried a sturdy square purse as Connell stepped aside so she could pose for photos.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey cast poses with partners at Jill Zarin's party
Jennifer Aydin, Bill Aydin, Teresa Guidice, Luis Ruelas, Dolores Catania, Frank Catania, Jill Zarin and Gary Brody at Jill Zarin’s Luxury Luncheon | Sara Jaye/Getty Images

Fans have mixed reactions regarding Catania’s use of semaglutide, the weight loss drug behind Ozempic and other labels. The RHONJ star has been open and honest about her experiences with it, reducing the stigma attached to such groundbreaking medical movements. However, some believe she simply didn’t need to use it. Catania shared with The U.S. Sun, “I took Ozempic, stopped, and then begun Mounjaro. I was medically prescribed for both because I am insulin resistant/pre-diabetic and have a thyroid issue.”

The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania poses with her boyfriend at Jill Zarin's party
Dolores Catania and Paulie Connell at Jill Zarin’s Luxury Luncheon on July 20, 2024 in Southampton, New York | Sara Jaye/Getty Images

Catania explained, “It doesn’t happen overnight. It doesn’t come off easy.” First, she took Ozempic for two years, dropping about 20 pounds. Then, the philanthropist stopped taking it because it’s “expensive.” Catania’s weight rose to 163, according to The Sun, so she began taking Mounjaro, another form of semaglutide. Now, she weighs 137 pounds with a goal of being in her “low 130s.”.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey's Dolores Catania smiles in a blue dress on Bravo's Watch What Happens Live
Dolores Catania on Bravo’s ‘Watch What Happens Live’ | Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty Images
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Although critics say she’s taken the easy way out, Catania says, “Being healthy and living a healthy lifestyle is cheap — it’s free! I work out regularly. There is no easy fix for weight loss, and I have to watch what I eat.” Despite some controversy, Dolores remains transparent about her health choices and their impact on her life.