The TOWIE cast then vs now: From weight loss, addictions to lip filler and boob jobs, and leaving the reality TV world behind – we take a look at the transformations of the original cast

As I delve into the lives of these vibrant personalities from The Only Way Is Essex, it’s impossible not to be moved by their journeys. Each one has faced their own battles, from body image struggles to public scrutiny, and yet they continue to shine brightly.

Take Harry Derbridge, for instance. His journey is a testament to resilience and self-love. From being the first openly gay cast member on TOWIE to overcoming a terrible eating disorder, he’s come a long way. It takes a strong person to admit their struggles and even stronger to overcome them. And let’s not forget, he looks better than ever!

Now, I’m no therapist, but if I were, I’d say Harry’s journey is a perfect example of how one can transform from a seven-stone skeleton to a musclebound marvel. It’s like Essex magic, or maybe just good old-fashioned hard work and self-care!

But remember, folks, always remember: If you want to lose weight, don’t forget to eat! Just ask Harry, he’ll tell you all about it. After all, a journey of a thousand pounds begins with a single calorie… or something like that!

The final episode of the 34th season of TOWIE, aired as a 90-minute long Christmas special, during the holiday season.

2024 saw a flurry of scandals, love intrigues, fresh romances, and lots of excitement among the Essex celebrities. However, where are the original cast members now?

Fans remain just as captivated as ever, following the cast members not only when they host their own television programs but also when they participate in various reality TV ventures. Their evolving appearances continue to intrigue viewers.

In 2021, Lauren Goodger made a comeback to the show after an absence since 2016, and it was evident that she had undergone some significant changes since her initial appearance in 2010.

Additionally, Lauren isn’t the sole TOWIE celebrity who opts for dramatic cosmetic enhancements or surgical procedures.

Meanwhile, with anticipation building for series 35, TopMob delves into the most remarkable makeovers on The Only Way Is Essex. Let’s trace their changing appearances, weight loss journeys, and growing fascination with cosmetic enhancements.

James Argent 

From 2010 through 2018, James Argent was a regular cast member on the popular ITV reality series. More recently, he surprised everyone by performing at the holiday party during the special Christmas episode.

As a devoted admirer, I’d share that the celebrated figure, aged 37, tipped the scales at an astounding 27 stones during the lockdown period. However, once he committed to transforming his life and opted for a sleeve gastrectomy surgery, he shed an incredible nearly 14 stones!

After initially losing weight, it emerged last year that Arg was actually focusing on putting on weight, with his weight being around 13.5 stones at the time.

In a conversation on The Mail’s comedy podcast, Straight To The Comments!, he openly shared that his heaviest weight was approximately 27 stones (around 378 lbs or 171 kg). Currently, he weighs around 13.5 stones (about 189 lbs or 86 kg), which represents a significant improvement for him.

I’ve realized that my emotional eating habits have been a significant part of my life for quite some time now. I found myself constantly reaching for food during moments of stress or discomfort, and the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown only exacerbated the issue. With limited activities and more time on my hands, it was easy to fall into a cycle of eating without much thought or consideration for my health. It’s been a tough journey, but I’m determined to make changes and find healthier coping mechanisms moving forward.

He admitted that his physician informed him he was essentially facing imminent death due to his excessive weight, a period during which he struggled to even tie his own shoe laces and found it difficult to catch his breath.

In a humorous manner, Arg, often referred to as ‘Arg’, admitted that he had difficulty spotting his own genitalia, but added with a chuckle, “Now, I think I can barely make it out.

Lauren Goodger

Last year, Lauren Goodger returned to the TOWIE cast, having initially gained popularity among the original cast members who debuted in 2010 and found fame together on the show.

Over time, I’ve observed myself being on and off the show since my departure in 2012, which came after a split from my longtime partner, Mark Wright. Now, he’s happily married to Michelle Keegan and expecting their first child together.

In 2016, Lauren made a short comeback; but it was recently announced that she will be permanently re-entering the show, as she felt this was the perfect moment for her to resurface in the public eye.

The original actress has consistently been open about the various alterations she’s had, having earlier confessed to a nose job (rhinoplasty) in 2011, which she needed to correct her nose after it was broken in an accident.

She also underwent a breast augmentation surgery, transforming her 34D chest size to 34E in 2013. 

2023 saw Lauren acknowledging that she underwent a Brazilian butt lift surgery in the year 2017, and since then, she’s been eager to reverse that procedure.

As a devoted fan, I’d like to share my personal account of an ordeal that left me with an unforgettable lesson. Just like the TV personality, I too embarked on a journey to Turkey, but not for the typical sightseeing tour. Instead, I chose to undergo a BBL procedure, an experience I now refer to as the most challenging chapter of my life.

Lauren expressed her strong desire to restore her buttocks to their natural shape, but she’s unsure of the best way to achieve this, as there seems to be no surgical procedure available to undo a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

She mentioned: ‘I’m still figuring out how to go about it. I’m unsure if there exists a method to undo the BBL. I’m exploring the possibility of having fat removed, but I’m not certain if that’s an available option. I plan to consult with several surgeons to understand my possibilities.’

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I must admit that I’ve observed celebrities like myself embracing aesthetic enhancements such as lip fillers. In fact, I opted for the ‘butterfly effect’ filler method, similar to Katie Price, in February 2023. I proudly unveiled my fresh look and new pout to the world.

At that moment, she shared that she had recently undergone lip filler treatment with Lift Aesthetics, explaining that she was speaking strangely because she currently had tape on.

I’m extremely puffed up, yet a fresh method has left me thrilled. It’s truly astounding, and I eagerly anticipate the outcome.

Previously, she expressed fear and anxiety about undergoing breast reduction surgery. However, last year, she announced that she has now decided to proceed with the procedure after overcoming those initial apprehensions.

Showing stunning in a deep-v neckline, ivy green and white crossbody swimsuit, she shared with her Instagram followers about her struggle with anxiety that has hindered her from getting surgeries and minor procedures.

She explained that her past experiences have caused her immense anxiety, leading her to abstain from caffeine and alcohol. This anxiety has, in turn, prevented her from going on vacation overseas, undergoing surgery, or even receiving minor treatments due to her severe anxiety.

Today, I had an enlightening conversation with the extraordinary Dr. SimonSmithSurgeon, as I’ve decided it’s time for a change – specifically, the removal of my breast implants.

I don’t require their presence, but I need to complete this task. I’m quite anxious about it, but I understand that it’s better for me in the long run. I no longer need them, and I eagerly anticipate returning to my natural state.

Lucy Mecklenburgh 

I, being an ardent fan, first encountered the captivating series where Lucy stepped into the limelight as Mark Wright’s fresh romance and a stylish fashion buyer all rolled into one intriguing character.

Her romantic life became widely known when she first appeared on television screens in 2010, leading to a public feud between her and her long-term lover, Lauren, over the attentions of a charmer.

Since departing from TOWIE, I’ve discovered my very own “happily ever after” – a phrase I never thought I’d use so literally! It all started when I crossed paths with Coronation Street star, Ryan Thomas, on Celebrity Island With Bear Grylls back in 2017. That island adventure turned out to be more than just a survival challenge; it was the beginning of a beautiful journey that led me to love and lasting happiness.

In June 2019, amidst much publicity surrounding their relationship and whispers of a possible separation, Ryan proposed to Lucy while they were enjoying a picturesque vacation on the Amalfi Coast.

The pair share son Roman who was born in March 2020. 

In 2019, Lucy maintained her stance that she had not undergone any plastic surgery, even though numerous offers for free surgeries worth thousands were extended to her, in spite of the noticeable changes in her appearance.

In a moment of desperation, during a time when I was feeling utterly lost and numb, I confessed that I sought advice from a surgeon on Harley Street, with the hope of undergoing a procedure to slim my features.

She shared with her Instagram audience: “A while back, I visited a surgeon at Harley Street and requested they sculpt my face to give me more prominent cheekbones.

I displayed a picture from when I significantly slimmed down due to stress and anxiety, and asked, “Could you help restore my facial appearance to how it looked in this photo, if possible?

He expressed that he could indeed do it, but he won’t because he believes you don’t require any cosmetic work on your face. He mentioned that you appeared quite slender previously, and now your face seems a bit fuller, giving off a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Speaking about her gratitude towards the surgeon, Lucy expressed: ‘I am incredibly grateful for this doctor. In retrospect, I wasn’t aware at the moment, but I was quite unhappy, battling low self-esteem, and feeling almost lifeless most of the time – to the point where I could admit to being depressed.’ [sic]

Certainly not feeling up to making a significant, long-lasting decision about altering my appearance at this moment.

Sam and Billie Faiers 

The Faiers sisters have consistently refused to conform to societal expectations regarding changes in their appearances, even though they’ve undergone remarkable makeovers since their days on TOWIE.

On The Mummy Diaries in 2019, they openly declared that they’ve never used Botox, even though their appearances have noticeably changed since appearing on the show.

In the conversation about Botox, Billie shared a claim made by her makeup artist that certain models undergo the procedure to elevate their eyebrow positions.

Despite her firm assertion, she made clear that she wasn’t interested in the procedure being performed. Instead, she opted for facials, as Sam chimed in, “We’ve never resorted to Botox; we’ve always taken care of our skin instead.

Having spent years in the limelight, I can attest that being a celebrity often comes with unwarranted assumptions about one’s appearance. People tend to assume that we have undergone various cosmetic procedures because of our fame and fortune. However, it is important to remember that we are individuals with our own unique journeys and choices regarding our bodies. The assumption that celebrities automatically opt for plastic surgery can be bothersome and unfair.

As a die-hard admirer, I couldn’t help but share the secret she spilled: folks are always whispering about her supposedly enhanced eyes and fuller features thanks to fillers. However, let me pass on the word straight from her lips: ‘I swear, I’ve never, ever had a drop of Botox in my life.’

Reflecting on my own journey, I can attest that a decade on television has profoundly transformed me. From the wide-eyed 18-year-old stepping into the spotlight to the mature 28-year-old woman I am today, my face and life have evolved in ways that no one could predict. The passage of time leaves an indelible mark; it’s not just about growing older, but rather about growing wiser and more resilient. It’s safe to say that no one remains the same after such a significant life experience.

Following their departure from TOWIE (The Only Way Is Essex) in 2014, the duo embarked on a new journey, appearing in their own reality series titled “The Mummy Diaries.” This show chronicled their lives as they navigated through their marriages and experiences of parenthood.

In 2021, Sam decided to depart from the show as she had planned to do so once her children began attending school.

After a ten-year run on television, the lead actor chose to conclude “Billie and Greg: The Family Diaries” in November, deciding it was time for the series to wrap up.

Billie announced that after nearly a decade of shooting for The Mummy Diaries and Family Diaries Official, it’s now official that their journey has concluded.

Oh, what an incredible ride it’s been! From welcoming new life into the world, nurturing our children through their ups and downs, the triumphs and trials of parenthood, laughter and tears, joyous moments, playful times, challenging days, bachelorette and bachelor parties, constructing a home, and, naturally, saying “I do.

I’m absolutely thrilled and indebted to the universe for having the chance to preserve these precious moments and bring them to your doorstep, my dear fans!

Mark Wright

When Mark made his way on to screens, he was a club promoter and semi-professional footballer. 

In the initial seasons of TOWIE, the reality star’s habit of dating multiple women was evident. He was frequently spotted balancing his time among his long-term partner Lauren Goodger, Sam Faiers, and Lucy Mecklenburgh.

In a surprising turn of events, Mark proposed to Lauren in a parking lot outside a pub, which led to Nicola, Lauren’s sister, famously exclaiming, “Are you pulling my leg?” (or alternatively, “Are you joking?”)

Following his proposal to Lauren, their relationship sadly ended in heartache when he was unfaithful to her by getting involved with Lucy, an incident that occurred just before he permanently left the series.

After departing from the show, Mark eventually discovered love when he wed Coronation Street actor Michelle Keegan at a picturesque church, St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmonds, in the year 2015.

Previously, he expressed heartfelt sentiments to Michelle, saying, “You bring me such joy and I feel so proud of you. You fill a void in my life.

This year, the couple revealed they will welcome their first child as a duo, sharing a charming announcement on Instagram on a Sunday.

On a beach, the actress cradled her baby bump while writing: “The year 2025 holds a unique significance for us…

Amy Childs 

At the young age of 18, Amy Childs confidently displayed an augmented bustline following a cosmetic procedure, as she made her entrance onto the show.

This popular television personality, now 33 years old, underwent two breast augmentation surgeries, received Botox treatments, lip enhancements using fillers, liposuction, and dental veneers. These cosmetic alterations have significantly changed her appearance as time went by.

As someone deeply committed to self-improvement, I’ve recently made a personal decision to forego cosmetic surgeries. Previously, I was a mother of four, including Polly aged five, Ritchie at four, and twins Billy and Amelia who are 12 months old. Now, I’ve realized that the pursuit of altering my appearance to an extent where I resemble something other than myself doesn’t bring the fulfillment I seek. Instead, I strive to embrace my authentic self and project a natural image, as I feel it’s more important to look like a genuine person rather than ‘a freak’.

In 2022, she shared with The Sun that she hasn’t undergone cosmetic procedures for quite some time. For her, becoming a mother has shifted her perspective on appearances.

In the past, when you were on The Only Way Is Essex, you became overly preoccupied with your appearance. However, at the age of 32 that I am this year, my perspective has dramatically changed.

I’m incredibly content with who I am right now. Although my old size 8 body is not with me anymore, what truly matters to me are my two beautiful children. So, overall, I’m quite content and happy within myself.

As a devoted admirer looking back, I can’t help but marvel at the transformations in Amy’s physique. In her teenage years, she enhanced her bust from an A-cup to a D-cup, a change that left quite an impression. Fast forward to age 23, and she took it one step further, upgrading yet again to a 30EE for her second breast augmentation. Quite the journey, isn’t it?

In May 2019, a woman with two children went through an eight-hour surgery due to chest pain that occurred after her left implant burst. A month after the operation, medical professionals found a growth in her breast tissue caused by leaking fluid.

After spending a week in the hospital, the celebrity has now reduced the size of her breast implants from extra-extra large (EE) to a C cup.

Ferne McCann 

In 2013, Ferne started appearing regularly on The Only Way Is Essex. Three years later, she decided to leave the series, but since then, she’s been candid about her plastic surgery experiences.

2016 saw Ferne disclose that she underwent a rhinoplasty procedure, and she showcased the outcome during her visit to This Morning following the surgery.

she choked up while discussing her life’s journey with hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford, explaining the reasons behind her decision to undergo a transformation.

In a candid and truthful disclosure, Ferne shared the reasons behind her choice, explaining that long-standing feelings of insecurity and harsh comments online ultimately influenced her decision. She expressed, ‘I sought a small alteration. I didn’t aim for drastic change. My nose was a source of teasing at school, and I felt it was becoming too prominent on my face.’

From the front, it appears very much like its previous state, so there isn’t much that needs getting accustomed to. However, if you look at it from the side, it’s noticeably changed.

Gradually showing signs of feeling overwhelmed, Ferne confessed, “Though I may appear self-assured and boisterous, deep down, I was truly affected by this situation.

The celebrity known for reality shows admitted that she’s struggled with feelings of insecurity since she was 12 years old, long before entering the public eye.

She mentioned that her nicknames began during her time at high school. Some boys labeled her ‘goose’, which sparked something within her. Later, Twitter bullies added insult to injury by continuing this name-calling.

Instead, let’s rephrase it like this: Last year, Ferne opted to reverse her lip fillers when they were dissolved, and since then, she has openly shared her remorse about undergoing that particular cosmetic treatment.

As someone who has gone through a significant transformation myself, I deeply admire this individual’s courage to share their personal journey. By openly discussing her lip transformation, she demonstrates vulnerability and authenticity that resonates with many of us. It’s truly inspiring to witness people embracing change and growth in their lives.

‘In the past, I chose lip augmentation without proper research, which led me to the wrong professionals. As a result, I faced a lot of criticism about my lips. It was a mistake I made years ago, desiring large voluptuous lips without fully understanding the process.’

I admitted, despite my resilience honed by years in the limelight, moments of despondency still crept in. My perspective towards certain situations shifted subtly.

Due to my own daughters and the desire to serve as a positive influence for them, I see things from an entirely new perspective when it comes to appearance, particularly concerning lips like that.

She commented, “I instinctively felt that they appeared absurd. There were small bumps where the injectable material had moved improperly, and the overall form was misshapen.

Harry Derbridge

Harry, who is 30 years old, was initially exposed to the show through his cousin Amy Childs, thereby becoming the first openly gay cast member on TOWIE (The Only Way Is Essex).

2020 saw Harry, the reality TV personality, refute claims about his weight gain, revealing that he had conquered a severe eating disorder instead.

In 2020, during the tenth anniversary festivities of TOWIE, Harry reappeared, and he felt compelled to clarify on Twitter that he hadn’t received Botox injections; instead, he had only opted for lip augmentation.

He wrote: ‘To set the record straight… I won’t repeat myself, but let me clarify that I haven’t used any fillers or Botox on my face. The only enhancement I’ve had is a minimal amount of lip filler. So, could we all please stop drawing comparisons between 16-year-old Harry and 26-year-old Harry? It honestly makes me chuckle…’

To the statement “I’ve piled on the pounds,” my response would be: “Indeed, I’ve gained weight. However, I’ve battled through a challenging eating disorder for many years, and today, I can confidently say that I’ve made significant progress in self-improvement. In fact, I believe I look better than ever.

2017 saw Harry pen a heartfelt message detailing the physical changes he’s experienced, disclosing that he once weighed only 49 kilograms (or seven stones).

In a detailed note, Harry shared: ‘I’ve had a tough time battling an eating disorder, but I’m no longer the same muscular guy you once knew. However, at this moment, I’ve never felt or appeared healthier and more content with my body.’

At age 16, I weighed only 7 stones, was far from healthy, and could sometimes skip a whole day of meals. Additionally, I suffered from a genuine fear of food, which is medically known as ‘food phobia’.

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2025-01-02 20:43