James Argent enjoys a cosy reunion with ex Gemma Collins as they are seen together for the first time in five years since ugly split

by

It’s been five years since they called an official end to their on/off romance.

James Argent and Gemma Collins seemed to have put their past disagreements behind them, enjoying a friendly get-together at Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park on Thursday night.

The former couple seemed happy and relaxed while chatting with friends at the party.

Gemma and James ‘Arg’ Argent had an on-again, off-again relationship from 2012 to 2020. When they finally broke up, Gemma said he had sent her hurtful messages that criticized her weight.

Despite their past issues, Gemma and Arg seemed to have completely made up, with Gemma visibly happy to see him during their meeting.

The 44-year-old reality star stepped out in a chic burgundy suit, paired with a classic white Birkin bag and fun leopard print shoes.

Meanwhile Arg, 37, displayed his 14 stone weight loss in a cream pullover and slacks. 

The star of Celebrity Super Spa has lost weight over the past few years, having had gastric sleeve surgery in 2021.

His weight loss journey came after he tackled his drink and drug addiction. 

Gemma revealed she felt terrible around Christmas 2019, explaining that her relationship with Arg had become very difficult due to his struggles with drug addiction, which significantly altered his personality.

I was so heartbroken when Gemma and James split up back in July 2020. Apparently, he told her he wanted to try an open relationship after everything he’d been through with his struggles with drugs and alcohol. It was a really tough time for everyone who followed their relationship.

Gemma previously shared on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories that experimenting with drugs, even just once, can lead to addiction. She warned anyone considering it about the potential risks.

I truly cared for James, and we had a good connection. However, drug use significantly altered his personality. I spent three years trying to help him recover.

I’ve struggled with thoughts of ending my life, especially after my relationship with Arg ended. It was a really difficult time, and I honestly just didn’t want to go on anymore; I felt like I couldn’t cope.

Christmas was incredibly difficult. I’d helped him through some serious crises, even saved his life on multiple occasions, and I deeply loved him – I just couldn’t bear the thought of letting go.

The relationship started with a lot of affection, but it deteriorated significantly due to drug use. It was a difficult time.

As a lifestyle expert, I often see how quickly things can escalate. Back in 2019, I learned about James, a young man who needed serious help. After those closest to him worried he’d tried to harm himself again, he ended up in the hospital – it was actually his second time needing that level of care in just two months. It was a really tough situation, and a stark reminder of how vital it is to reach out for support when you’re struggling.

In December, paramedics were called to the reality star’s home in South Woodford, Essex, where they found him confused. Friends, including Mark Wright, quickly came to his aid and are helping him get the support he needs.

Arg, who became known on TOWIE, has struggled with addiction to both alcohol and drugs. He was temporarily removed from the show in 2014 after testing positive for drugs.

James checked into The Priory and returned to the ITV reality show in 2015.

In late 2016, the television personality entered a treatment facility in Thailand for three months to address an addiction. He sought the program to receive continued support in his recovery.

I was really shocked to hear him talk about this on This Morning! He actually said he ‘hated’ Gemma when he was struggling with addiction, because she wouldn’t lie for him or make excuses for his behavior. It was tough to watch, but honestly, it showed a lot of respect for her character, even if it was painful for him to admit.

Overcome with emotion, Arg admitted he sympathizes with Gemma, acknowledging the difficult experiences she’s faced. He confessed that when he was struggling with addiction, he used to dislike her.

I’d tell them, “Why are you sharing this with my family, friends, and my work? You’re going to destroy my career.”

She wouldn’t help me hide my problem. She wouldn’t lie to protect me, and she wouldn’t support my addiction by covering it up.

I was angry with her then, because a part of me wished I could have done what I wanted without consequences.

He acknowledged that Gemma played a crucial role in helping him get better, adding, ‘She definitely pushed me hard and wasn’t afraid to be direct.’

I’m so grateful Gemma called the ambulances when she did. Things could have turned out much worse if she hadn’t.

Honestly, I’ve completely thrown my life into chaos for this. I’ve risked everything – my job, my health, even my own safety. But what really kills me is the worry and stress I’ve caused the people I love. My parents, my friends, even my girlfriend and manager… they’ve all been through so much because of my obsession, and that’s the part that breaks my heart the most.

The only way to repair my relationship with them is to stay drug- and alcohol-free. It’s easy to make promises, but what I do is more important than what I say.

Read More

2025-11-14 12:49