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Good Morning Britain’s Richard Madeley accused of ‘body shaming’ James Argent as he says he’s ‘worried’ about his size
GOOD Morning Britain's Richard Madeley has been accused of 'body shaming' James Argent after he said he was 'worried' about his size.
The Towie star appeared on today's show as a showbiz correspondent, with Richard, 63, standing in for Piers Morgan as host.
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After discussing Simon Cowell's recent weight loss, Richard asked Arg, 31, about his own well publicised battle with the bulge.
He said: "Have you always had a problem with your weight?"
Arg replied: "It's gone up and down, there's been times when I've been really slim and healthy."
After he admitted he was the heaviest he's ever been this year, Richard asked bluntly: "What are you going to do about it?"
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The reality star, who is currently taking part in Sink or Swim For Stand Up To Cancer, said he had "kick started" his weight loss journey by being on the show.
He added: "[It's] been absolutely perfect timing for me, hopefully this will be the start and I'll be making some big changes."
Richard - who is often compared to comedy character Alan Partridge - replied: "You're a very good looking guy and the weight thing doesn't get in the way, but I just worry about your health, your heart and everything."
Arg replied: "I appreciate that, I'm doing something about it don't worry Richard."
The Towie star had ballooned to 24 stone earlier this year - his highest ever weight - but has recently lost three stone during C4's Sink or Swim.
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Some viewers were far from impressed by Richard's comment and line of questioning, with one writing on Twitter after the exchange: "Richard Madeley has been full on body shaming Arg just now! #GMB."
Another tweeted: "Jesus @richardm56 way to turn it personal and rude to @RealJamesArgent about his weight. Wasn't your concern to go in on him like that when he was just doing his job. Nasty."
A third agreed, writing: "Poor arg and the buffoon that is Richard madeley...truly awful #GMB."
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Meanwhile Arg joked he would be taking inspiration from Simon, 59, after his recent two stone weight loss.
The music mogul has shocked fans with his slimmed down physique in recent months, which is down to his new vegan diet.
While Arg isn't keen to give up meat, he said: "I need to take some tips off Mr Simon Cowell.
"I don't know about the vegan but definitely cutting out sugar and stuff."
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Arg - who was told he was morbidly obese on the first episode of Sink or Swim last night - spoke on today's GMB about his weight battle.
He told Richard and co-host Charlotte Hawkins: "In the past when I've lost weight I've cut out the sugar and refined carbs. Simon Cowell is going to be my new inspiration.
"I've noticed since turning 30, it's harder for me. Usually I can get it off pretty quickly but now it's a real struggle."
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