Introduction
My Big Fat Fabulous Life captivated audiences with its honest and often hilarious portrayal of Whitney Way Thore’s journey. More than just a reality show, it was a story about body positivity, friendship, and finding joy in life, regardless of societal expectations. Viewers tuned in week after week to witness Whitney navigate dating, career challenges, and personal growth, all while unapologetically embracing her plus-size figure. While Whitney was the central figure, the show also introduced us to a memorable supporting cast – friends, family, and partners who each played a significant role in shaping Whitney’s life and the narrative of the series. But the show has been off air for a while now, and many people are wondering what happened to the My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast? What are Whitney and her friends and family doing now?
“My Big Fat Fabulous Life,” broadcast on TLC, offered an intimate glimpse into Whitney’s life for over ten seasons. From dance classes and business ventures to complicated relationships and heartwarming family moments, the show covered a wide range of experiences. But what about the My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast beyond the cameras? What paths have they taken since the show’s run ended, and how have their lives evolved?
This article will delve into the lives of the core cast members of “My Big Fat Fabulous Life,” exploring their current endeavors, personal relationships, and significant developments since the show began. We’ll take a look at how they are navigating life after reality television, and what the future holds for these familiar faces.
Whitney Way Thore: Beyond the Big Girl Dance
Whitney Way Thore was, without a doubt, the heart and soul of “My Big Fat Fabulous Life.” The show chronicled her efforts to shatter societal beauty standards, promote body positivity, and live a full and vibrant life. From founding the “No BS Active” fitness movement to pursuing her passion for dance, Whitney continuously inspired viewers with her infectious energy and unwavering self-acceptance. On the show, we witnessed her career ventures, her complicated relationships, and her many struggles and triumphs.
Currently, Whitney continues to champion body positivity through her “No BS Active” platform. This online fitness program encourages people of all shapes and sizes to embrace movement and prioritize their well-being. It’s a testament to her commitment to making fitness accessible and inclusive for everyone, regardless of their size or fitness level. Whitney still advocates for body positivity. You can often find her advocating for the cause and posting body positive messages on her Instagram page.
Whitney’s dating life has been a frequent topic of conversation among fans. After a whirlwind engagement to Chase Severino that ended in heartbreak when he admitted to having a child with another woman, Whitney has been relatively private about her romantic pursuits. While she has hinted at a new relationship on social media, she has largely kept the details under wraps. Fans are always interested in her love life and she has talked about potentially wanting to have children, too.
Beyond fitness and relationships, Whitney continues to engage with her fans through social media, sharing snippets of her daily life, promoting body positivity, and advocating for self-love. She has a strong social media presence with a large following. She is also now co-hosting a podcast with her friend, Kate.
Glenn Thore and Babs Thore: The Pillars of Support
Glenn and Babs Thore, Whitney’s parents, were integral to the show’s appeal. Their unwavering support for Whitney, their witty banter, and their genuine love for each other resonated with viewers. They were the rock that anchored Whitney’s often-turbulent life, offering guidance, encouragement, and a healthy dose of reality when needed. Babs, in particular, became a fan favorite for her sharp wit, her Southern charm, and her fierce protectiveness of Whitney. She was always the life of the party.
The passing of Babs Thore in December of 2022 was a profound loss, not only for Whitney and Glenn but also for the show’s dedicated fanbase. Babs had suffered several strokes, and her health had been declining in the years leading up to her death. Her absence has been deeply felt. Glenn Thore has been coping with the loss of his wife of many years.
Glenn continues to honor Babs’s memory through heartfelt tributes on social media and by sharing stories about her life. He is actively involved in Whitney’s life, and supports her projects.
Buddy Bell: The Loyal Confidante
Buddy Bell was a constant presence on “My Big Fat Fabulous Life,” serving as Whitney’s best friend, confidante, and occasional roommate. His struggles with addiction were also documented on the show, adding a layer of vulnerability and honesty to his portrayal. Through it all, Buddy’s loyalty to Whitney remained unwavering, and his support was invaluable to her.
Buddy’s life has seen significant positive changes. He overcame his struggles with addiction and found love and stability. He got married. Buddy still has a great relationship with Whitney, though he now lives a bit further away. He still appears on Whitney’s social media from time to time, showing that the two are still good friends.
Ashley Baynes: The Voice of Reason
Ashley Baynes is one of Whitney’s closest friends and a frequent voice of reason on “My Big Fat Fabulous Life.” As a mother and working professional, Ashley often provided a grounded perspective to Whitney’s often-dramatic life. Her supportive friendship and unwavering loyalty made her a valuable member of the My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast.
Ashley continues to juggle motherhood and her career, finding balance between family life and professional pursuits. She still enjoys close friendships with Whitney and other cast members, offering advice and support. Ashley seems to have taken a step back from the spotlight and no longer appears much on social media, but from what we know she is happy.
Todd Beasley: Stepping Off the Dance Floor
Todd Beasley, a talented dancer and choreographer, played a significant role in Whitney’s life, particularly in the earlier seasons of “My Big Fat Fabulous Life.” He was Whitney’s dance partner. Together, they taught big girl dance classes, inspiring others to embrace movement and self-expression.
Todd continues to pursue his passion for dance, working as a choreographer and instructor. While his presence on “My Big Fat Fabulous Life” diminished in later seasons, he remains a talented and dedicated dancer. He is still friends with Whitney and still works as a dance instructor. He has also done some work in film.
Life Beyond the Show: Legacy and Influence
The My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast has left an indelible mark on reality television and the body positivity movement. The show challenged conventional beauty standards, promoted self-acceptance, and celebrated the diversity of human bodies. Whitney Way Thore, in particular, has become a powerful voice for body positivity, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their unique selves and live life to the fullest.
The show’s legacy extends beyond its entertainment value. It sparked conversations about weight stigma, fat shaming, and the importance of self-love. It also provided a platform for individuals to share their own experiences with body image and self-acceptance, creating a community of support and empowerment. “My Big Fat Fabulous Life” demonstrated that happiness, confidence, and fulfillment are not contingent upon fitting into a certain mold.
In Conclusion: The Show May End, but the Journey Continues
The My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast has continued on with their lives since the ending of the show. While their time on reality television may have come to an end, the journeys of the cast members of “My Big Fat Fabulous Life” continue. They are navigating careers, relationships, personal growth, and the challenges and triumphs of everyday life. From Whitney’s continued advocacy for body positivity to Buddy’s journey toward sobriety and Ashley’s dedication to motherhood, each cast member is pursuing their own path with resilience and authenticity. The show’s legacy will live on with the impact it had on society and the discussions that it started.
“My Big Fat Fabulous Life” offered a glimpse into the lives of real people facing real challenges. The show had an impact on people all around the world. It reminded us that life is a journey, not a destination, and that it is possible to find joy, love, and fulfillment, regardless of our size or circumstances. And while the cameras may no longer be rolling, the stories of the My Big Fat Fabulous Life cast continue to unfold, inspiring us to embrace our own unique journeys and live life to the fullest.
