TLC’s My 600-Lb. Life has become a compelling and often emotional journey for viewers since its premiere in February 2012. The reality TV series documents the lives of individuals struggling with extreme obesity as they seek life-altering weight loss with the help of bariatric surgeon Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, affectionately known as Dr. Now. Dr. Now’s demanding yet compassionate approach guides patients through rigorous lifestyle changes, often including dietary overhauls and gastric bypass surgery. But what happens after the cameras stop rolling? Fans are constantly asking: “My 600-lb life where are they now?” Let’s delve into the journeys of some of the show’s memorable participants and discover their current paths.
Dr. Nowzaradan’s motivation for the show stemmed from his extensive experience treating patients with extreme obesity. In a 2017 interview with Houstonia magazine, he explained, “I was operating on a lot of 600-pound people.” He envisioned the series as an educational tool for both the public and the medical community. Speaking at the 2016 ObesityHelp National Conference, Dr. Now emphasized his dual purpose: “to make an impression on the medical community that they should take care of these patients,” and “to have a show that provided inspiration for people and for the medical community with my hope to change [biased] opinions about morbidly obese people.”
Despite his no-nonsense demeanor, Dr. Now deeply understands the complexities of his patients’ conditions. He points out that their obesity isn’t a matter of choice or lack of willpower, but rather “due to a metabolic and genetic predisposition.” He stresses that surgery is not a magic bullet, telling Houstonia, “They think surgery is the solution for everything. And it’s not going to change people’s behavior toward food.” His commitment extends beyond the operating room, aiming to give his patients, in his words, “a life who could have a life.” He reportedly sees a high volume of patients daily, ensuring consistent care regardless of filming.
Dr. Nowzaradan on My 600-lb Life, guiding patients through weight loss journeys
Larry ‘Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits’ Myers Jr.
Larry Myers Jr., known as “Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits,” appeared in Season 10, sharing his daunting struggle with a peak weight of 940 pounds that left him bedridden. The aspiring gospel singer’s journey on My 600-Lb. Life showcased his initial steps toward reclaiming his health. While Larry made positive strides during his time on the show in 2022, news of his passing in June 2023, shortly after his 49th birthday, was shared by his cousin, Todd Darrell, leaving fans and the My 600-lb life community in mourning.
Larry Myers Jr. from My 600-lb Life season 10, highlighting his journey and untimely passing
Melissa D. Morris
Melissa D. Morris was featured in the very first season of My 600-Lb. Life. Starting at 653 pounds, Melissa underwent gastric bypass surgery and achieved an incredible 500-pound weight loss by 2012. Her journey continued in My 600-Lb. Life: Where Are They Now?, where she shared the joys and challenges of motherhood. Melissa candidly admitted the difficulties of maintaining her diet amidst the demands of raising children and being surrounded by their food. Despite these hurdles, Melissa remains committed to her health and family.
Melissa Morris from season 1 of My 600-lb Life, showcasing her dedication to health and family
Donald Shelton
Donald Shelton also appeared in Season 1, initially weighing 675 pounds. Following surgery, he successfully lost weight, reaching 295 pounds. However, Donald faced a significant health setback with a diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome. This autoimmune disorder led to nerve damage and a weight regain of 200 pounds. Despite being “disabled and in a wheelchair,” as noted on his Instagram, Donald maintains a positive outlook and strives to “have fun and get out and do stuff.” He embodies resilience in the face of adversity, a common theme among My 600-lb life participants.
Donald Shelton from My 600-lb Life season 1, highlighting his resilience after health challenges
Zsalynn Whitworth
Zsalynn Whitworth’s journey in Season 2 began at over 600 pounds. She achieved a remarkable 300-pound weight loss after gastric bypass. In a Where Are They Now? episode in 2015, Zsalynn shared personal changes, including her divorce. She revealed her husband’s discomfort with her transformation, stating he hadn’t “found much good in my changes.” Zsalynn is now focused on raising her daughter, Hannah, in Texas, embracing her new chapter.
Zsalynn Whitworth from season 2 of My 600-lb Life, showcasing her personal transformation and new beginnings
Christina Phillips
Christina Phillips, another participant from Season 2, started her journey at 708 pounds and impressively dropped to 183 pounds post-surgery. Her 2016 Where Are They Now? special revealed a struggle with fear of weight regain, leading to periods of not eating. However, Christina was actively working to overcome these anxieties. A joyful update came in February 2021 with the arrival of her son, Ethan, marking a new phase in her life.
Christina Phillips from My 600-lb Life season 2, celebrating motherhood and overcoming past anxieties
Tara Taylor
Tara Taylor, who was 606 pounds when she appeared in Season 2, demonstrated a strong commitment to health. She focused on maintaining her weight loss and healthy habits. Living in Louisiana and raising her child as a single mother, Tara’s journey reflects dedication and resilience.
Tara Taylor from season 2 of My 600-lb Life, highlighting her commitment to healthy living as a single mom
Amber Rachdi
Amber Rachdi, from Season 3, began at 660 pounds and achieved a remarkable weight loss of over 400 pounds. In a 2019 Facebook post, Amber expressed a desire to move beyond defining herself solely by her weight loss journey, stating she wanted future TV appearances to be about “doing something rad and accomplishing something.” This reflects a desire for personal growth beyond her weight loss success.
Amber Rachdi from My 600-lb Life season 3, emphasizing personal growth beyond weight loss achievements
Marla McCants
Marla McCants, also from Season 3, weighed 800 pounds when she joined My 600-Lb. Life. By 2019, in an interview with Sister Circle, Marla revealed an incredible 560-pound weight loss within two years. Now a motivational speaker and philanthropist in Tennessee, Marla uses her experience to inspire others.
Marla McCants from season 3 of My 600-lb Life, now a motivational speaker and philanthropist
Brittani Fulfer
Brittani Fulfer, from Season 4, started at 605 pounds and lost 200 pounds after surgery. In a 2018 Facebook post, Brittani celebrated her progress, writing, “I am stronger, healthier and more alive than I thought was ever possible!” She emphasized a focus on health over being “skinny,” promoting self-love and body positivity.
Brittani Fulfer from My 600-lb Life season 4, advocating for health and self-love over being skinny
Octavia Nichelle
Octavia Nichelle, from Season 7, began her journey at 692 pounds. In a 2021 Instagram post, Octavia showcased her ongoing progress, emphasizing a healthy and sustainable approach to weight loss: “I’m not doing unhealthy things to lose weight faster. I’m doing MY best. Slow and steady wins the race.” She is also a small business owner, creating jewelry, showcasing her multifaceted life.
Octavia Nichelle from season 7 of My 600-lb Life, focusing on sustainable weight loss and entrepreneurship
Cillas Givens
Cillas Givens, another Season 7 participant, went from 729 to 341 pounds during his time on the show. By July 2021, Cillas had relocated to Enid, Oklahoma, and started a new career as a warehouse specialist. His journey showcases significant life changes both physically and geographically.
Cillas Givens from My 600-lb Life season 7, highlighting his physical and life changes in Oklahoma
Janine Mueller
Janine Mueller, also from Season 7, faced challenges adhering to the recommended diet during her episode. She initially lost weight, going from 629 to 566 pounds. However, Janine has continued her weight loss journey since then, documenting her progress on social media. Like Octavia, Janine also has a creative side, selling jewelry.
Janine Mueller from season 7 of My 600-lb Life, showcasing her continued weight loss journey and jewelry business
My 600-Lb. Life offers a glimpse into the arduous and inspiring battles against extreme obesity. While each participant’s story is unique, they all demonstrate incredible courage and resilience. The question “600 Lb Life Where Are They Now?” reveals stories of ongoing struggles, triumphs, and transformations that resonate deeply with viewers. The journeys of these individuals, guided by Dr. Now’s expertise, continue to evolve long after their episodes air, offering hope and inspiration to many.
