'Even Though I Was Skinny, Doesn't Mean I Was Happy'

The TV personality keeps it real about aging, body neutrality and her mental health in an exclusive interview with Us

- LEANNE ACIZ STANTON

From 2005 to 2010, Kendra Wilkinson was known as one of the Girls Next Door,three blonde bombshells sharing a glimpse into life at the famed Playboy Mansion.

But for the reality star, it's been difficult to shake comparisons to who she was - and what she looked like nearly two decades ago. "I was living my life and enjoying my 20s, being skinny and [a] party girl. I didn't realize I was setting myself up for this unrealistic expectation in my 30s," Wilkinson, 39, tells Us. "I feel like society needs me to stay the girl they once knew." However, as she approaches her 40th birthday this June, the mom of two (she and ex Hank Baskett share son Hank IV, 15, and daughter Alijah, 10) is proud to be embracing herself in every form. She's also done with strangers sharing their unsolicited opinions: On Jan. 12, the Kendra Sells Hollywood alum slammed critics attacking her looks, declaring on Instagram, "For those of you hating on my new weight [and] 40 yr old face, please know that I'm happy, healthy and at peace in life finally." Most importantly, "I'm becoming the woman I want to be," she tells Us. "I feel free, to be honest." Here, Wilkinson talks ushering in a new era.

What inspired you to address body-shamers on Instagram?

It's important to highlight these things. I see a lot of ageism [and] a lot of body shaming, and it's not right.

We're human. People are getting mad at women for aging [or] gaining a pound.

It's unfortunate we have to feel [like] we have to be 25 [years old] and a size zero forever. I'm unapologetically me at all times, and I have the confidence to rise above it and to be comfortable in my own skin. This is about embracing life now.

Was there a moment you prioritized self-confidence?