In a surprising turn of events, former The Only Way Is Essex star James Argent is set to relocate to Spain, as confirmed by his close friend and fellow reality TV personality Elliott Wright. This announcement comes alongside Wright's own significant business reversal, where he has decided to retain ownership of his renowned Costa del Sol restaurant.
A New Chapter in Spain for James Argent
The 38-year-old television personality, widely known as 'Arg', is preparing for a fresh start on the Spanish coast. This move follows a tumultuous period last year when Argent admitted to assaulting his former girlfriend, model Nicole Artursson, in Majorca. The incident resulted in a six-month suspended prison sentence and a mandated rehabilitation programme.
Argent confessed to the domestic violence charge at Fuengirola's Court of Violence Against Women, avoiding a potential nine-month jail term that prosecutors had sought had the case proceeded to full trial. Despite these legal challenges, Argent appears to be embracing this transition, with plans to expand his entertainment commitments in Spain.
Elliott Wright's Restaurant Reversal
Simultaneously, Elliott Wright has made a substantial business U-turn regarding his establishment, Olivia's La Cala. The 45-year-old restaurateur, who previously announced plans to sell his Cala de Mijas venue near Marbella, has now decided to retain ownership after receiving unsatisfactory auction bids in December.
"After receiving the auction bids on 5th December and taking time to properly analyse them, speak with prospective buyers, and review the conditions attached, I've decided to keep Olivia's," Wright explained. "Some of the bids simply weren't strong enough, and the ones that were came with conditions that made selling pointless."
Wright had initially planned to return to the UK to be closer to his older children, Elliott Jr, 18, and Olivia, 16, after 25 years in Spain. However, the business realities have prompted this change of heart, with the restaurant now scheduled to reopen on Valentine's Day, 14th February, for what Wright promises will be a "bigger and better 2026 season."
Entertainment Plans and Future Prospects
Wright shared enthusiastic updates about both his business and his friend's relocation. "ARG is loving life — not only doing his legendary Thursday summer nights, but also moving to Spain and taking on Sunday Lunches too," he revealed.
This expansion of Argent's performing schedule suggests the former TOWIE star, who has regularly entertained British holidaymakers and expatriates at Olivia's La Cala, is committing seriously to his Spanish venture. The restaurant has become a hub for British entertainment on the Costa del Sol, with Argent's performances being a particular draw for tourists and residents alike.
Both men, who appeared on The Only Way Is Essex between 2010 and 2017, are now charting new courses in their personal and professional lives. While Argent seeks to rebuild following his legal difficulties, Wright is reinvesting in his established business, planning summer parties and enhanced offerings for the coming season.
The dual announcements mark significant developments for these reality television personalities turned entrepreneurs, whose lives continue to intertwine on the sunny Spanish coast where they've both built substantial followings among the British community abroad.
