Fat Friends: Where Are They Now? A Look Back at the Beloved Cast

Fat Friends, a heartwarming and often hilarious British television series, captured the hearts of viewers with its honest portrayal of weight issues, friendship, and the challenges of everyday life. Set in Leeds, the show followed the members of a local slimming group, exploring their struggles, triumphs, and the bonds they formed. Running from two thousand to two thousand five, Fat Friends not only provided relatable characters but also served as a launching pad for some of Britain’s most successful actors. This article delves into what the talented Fat Friends cast has been up to since the show ended, celebrating their subsequent careers and ongoing achievements.

The Core Cast: Then and Now

Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the Fat Friends cast and see where life has taken them. We’ll start with some of the show’s most recognizable faces and see how they’ve evolved since their days in Leeds.

James Corden

Probably the most globally recognized name from Fat Friends, James Corden played Jamie Rymer, a charming and slightly awkward young man navigating love and weight loss. Jamie’s storyline often revolved around his relationship with his mother and his romantic pursuits.

Since Fat Friends, Corden’s career has skyrocketed. He co-created and starred in the BAFTA-winning sitcom Gavin & Stacey, which became a cultural phenomenon in the UK. Beyond acting, Corden transitioned seamlessly into hosting, taking over The Late Late Show in two thousand fifteen. His infectious energy, engaging interviews, and viral segments like “Carpool Karaoke” made him a household name across the globe.

He’s also found success on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for his performance in One Man, Two Guvnors. Corden’s versatility and comedic timing have made him a sought-after talent in both television and film, solidifying his place as a global entertainment icon. However, after almost a decade, Corden stepped down from hosting The Late Late Show in two thousand twenty three, returning to the UK to spend more time with his family and pursue other creative endeavors. Corden is currently involved in various projects, including writing, producing, and acting.

An interesting fact is that Fat Friends was instrumental in showcasing Corden’s acting abilities and comedic talents, paving the way for his later success in Gavin & Stacey and beyond.

Ruth Jones

Another key figure from Fat Friends is Ruth Jones, who played Kelly Chadwick, a strong-willed and determined woman striving to lose weight and find love. Kelly’s journey resonated with many viewers, making her a central and relatable character in the series.

Following Fat Friends, Jones joined forces with James Corden to create Gavin & Stacey, where she not only starred as the beloved Nessa Jenkins but also co-wrote the entire series. Gavin & Stacey became a massive hit, earning numerous awards and cementing Jones’s status as a gifted writer and performer.

She has since starred in several other successful television shows, including Stella, a comedy-drama set in Wales, which she also wrote and created. Jones has also appeared in films and stage productions, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her ability to create relatable and humorous characters has made her a firm favorite with audiences.

Ruth Jones’s work on Fat Friends highlighted her talent for both comedy and drama, setting the stage for her remarkable success as a writer and performer in Gavin & Stacey and beyond.

Alison Steadman

The matriarch of Fat Friends, Alison Steadman played Betty Simpson, Jamie’s ever-supportive and slightly eccentric mother. Betty’s warmth and humor made her a fan favorite.

Steadman is a highly respected and versatile actress with a long and distinguished career in British theatre, television, and film. Even before Fat Friends, she was well known and respected but since the show, she has consistently delivered outstanding performances in a wide range of roles. She has appeared in numerous television dramas, including Gavin & Stacey (reuniting with Corden and Jones), Pride and Prejudice, and Orphan Black. Her film credits include Life is Sweet and Secrets & Lies, both directed by Mike Leigh.

Steadman’s ability to portray complex and nuanced characters has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Her contributions to British acting are significant, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Alison Steadman’s portrayal of Betty in Fat Friends demonstrated her ability to bring warmth and humor to her roles, qualities that have served her well throughout her illustrious career.

Gaynor Faye

Gaynor Faye played Lauren Harris, a spirited and ambitious character on Fat Friends. Lauren’s storylines often involved her career aspirations and her romantic relationships.

Since her time on the show, Faye has become a familiar face on British television. She is best known for her long-running role as Megan Macey in the popular soap opera Emmerdale. Her performance in Emmerdale has earned her numerous award nominations and solidified her status as a talented and versatile actress.

Faye has also appeared in other television dramas and stage productions, demonstrating her range as a performer. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences have made her a successful and respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Gaynor Faye’s work on Fat Friends showcased her ability to portray strong and ambitious characters, qualities that have been evident in her subsequent roles, particularly in Emmerdale.

Lisa Riley

Lisa Riley played Rebecca Patterson, a bubbly and confident character on Fat Friends. Rebecca’s journey towards self-acceptance and her unwavering optimism made her a beloved figure on the show.

Since Fat Friends, Riley has remained a prominent figure in British television. She has appeared on numerous reality shows, including Strictly Come Dancing, where she impressed audiences with her dancing skills. She also returned to acting, joining the cast of Emmerdale as Mandy Dingle, a role she had previously played briefly.

Riley has been open about her own weight loss journey and has become an advocate for body positivity. Her honesty and openness have resonated with many viewers, making her a role model for self-acceptance and healthy living.

Lisa Riley’s performance in Fat Friends highlighted her natural charisma and her ability to connect with audiences, qualities that have made her a popular and inspiring figure.

Lynda Baron

Lynda Baron, who sadly passed away in two thousand twenty two, played Norma, the kind-hearted and supportive leader of the slimming group in Fat Friends. Norma’s wisdom and empathy made her a central figure in the show. Lynda was a beloved British actress known for her iconic role as Nurse Gladys Emmanuel in the BBC comedy Open All Hours.

Before and after Fat Friends, Baron enjoyed a long and successful career in television, theatre, and film. She appeared in numerous popular television series, including Coronation Street, EastEnders, and The Royal. Her warm and engaging presence made her a beloved figure on British television.

Lynda Baron’s portrayal of Norma in Fat Friends exemplified her ability to bring warmth and compassion to her roles, qualities that made her a cherished actress.

Richard Ridings

Richard Ridings played Alan, husband of Betty Simpson, a lovable and supporting partner.

Since Fat Friends, Ridings has continued his successful acting career, primarily in voice acting, video games and films. His deep, resonant voice has made him a popular choice for character narration and voice overs, which has helped him secure roles in many video games, which include MediEvil and Darksiders III.

Richard’s long-standing and extensive career in various media has established him as a prolific member of the acting industry.

The Enduring Legacy of Fat Friends

Fat Friends was more than just a television show; it was a cultural phenomenon that addressed important issues of body image, weight loss, and self-acceptance with humor and sensitivity. The show resonated with viewers who felt represented by its characters and their struggles. It challenged societal norms and promoted the idea that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. The Fat Friends cast helped pave the way for more diverse representation in media and sparked conversations about body positivity.

The show received critical acclaim for its writing, acting, and its ability to tackle sensitive subjects with both humor and compassion. It won several awards, including a Royal Television Society Award for Best Drama Series.

The Fat Friends cast went on to achieve remarkable success in their careers, solidifying the show’s legacy as a launching pad for talent. The show’s impact on their careers is undeniable, with many cast members crediting Fat Friends as a pivotal moment in their professional journeys.

While there have been no confirmed plans for a reunion or revival, the show remains a beloved classic, and its characters continue to resonate with audiences today. Fans often express their hope for a reunion, eager to see what their favorite characters are up to now.

Fat Friends remains a heartwarming and important show that continues to resonate with audiences. The talented Fat Friends cast helped to push boundaries and promote body positivity in a way that was ahead of its time, and their continuing success is a testament to the show’s lasting impact. The show served as a reminder that true friendship and self-acceptance are the most important things in life, and that the journey to happiness is one that we should all embark on together.