Richard Madeley and James Argent
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Richard Madeley accused of ‘fat-shaming’ James ‘Arg’ Argent on GMB

Arg revealed he's kick-started his weight loss journey

Richard Madeley has been accused of “body-shaming” James ‘Arg’ Argent during today’s Good Morning Britain.

Arg was discussing Britain’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell’s incredible weight loss during the showbiz segment on the daytime show.

In a recent interview with Best magazine, Simon denied claims he’s had a gastric band fitted and insisted he’s just cut out sugar from his diet.

James 'Arg' Argent on GMB
Arg admitted he struggles with his weight (Credit: ITV)

Read more: Richard Madeley mistaken for Nigel Havers by Big Narstie on GMB

Arg admitted to presenters Richard and Charlotte Hawkins that his weight has always gone “up and down”.

He said: “I need to take some tips off Mr Simon Cowell. Not sure about [going] vegan but definitely cutting out the sugar.

“I’ve noticed as I’ve turned 30, it’s harder for me to lose weight.”

Richard asked Arg: “Have you always had a bit of a struggle with your weight?” to which Arg admitted: “Always gone up and down. There’s been times when I’ve been really slim…”

Richard asked: “Have you been heavier than you are now?”

Richard Madeley on GMB
Viewers accused Richard of “body-shaming” Arg (Credit: ITV)

Arg said: “No…” to which Richard asked: “This is the heaviest you’ve been?”

Arg continued: “This is the biggest I’ve been.”

Richard asked: “What are you going to do about it? I know you’re swimming the English Channel.”

Arg said: “I’ve kickstarted my weight loss journey and my healthy lifestyle.

“Obviously the Sink Or Swim, swimming the channel has been perfect timing for me, and hopefully this will be the start and I’ll be making some big changes.”

Richard then said: “You’re one of those lucky guys, you’re still very good looking.

Arg said he’s kickstarted his weight loss journey (Credit: ITV)

“You’re a good looking guy and the weight thing doesn’t get in the way. But I just worry about your health, you know.”

Arg said: “I appreciate that. I’m doing something about that don’t you worry Richard.”

Richard said: “Well I’ll be back in a few weeks and we’ll be weighing you.”

The presenter’s comments to Arg didn’t go down well with some viewers, who accused him of “body-shaming” the reality TV star.

One person said on Twitter: “Richard Madeley has been full on body-shaming Arg just now! #GMB.”

Another wrote: “@GMB Really Richard? Don’t fat-shame Arg! You’ve no idea how that makes people feel, especially on live TV.”

Read more: Simon Cowell hits back at claims he’s had gastric band after weight loss

A third tweeted: “Not cool from Richard for discussing Arg’s weight like that on TV. The guy already said he is doing something about it, why carry on and get personal?

“You don’t know the internal issues that he is dealing with.”

Ent Daily has contacted reps for Richard for comment.

What did you think of Richard’s comments to Arg? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)