A resurfaced clip from the early days of The Only Way Is Essex has ignited a fresh wave of online outrage, with original star Mark Wright facing severe criticism for his past behaviour towards ex-girlfriend Lauren Goodger.
Viral Clip Reopens Old Wounds
Nearly 15 years after it first aired, a scene from the show's 2010 Christmas special has recirculated on TikTok, prompting viewers to brand Wright's actions as "cruel" and "vile". The footage captures a pivotal moment in the couple's turbulent eight-year relationship, which played out publicly on the reality series before ending in 2012.
The now-38-year-old Wright, who left TOWIE in 2011 and is now married to actress Michelle Keegan, is seen in the viral clip having a fraught conversation with Goodger at a festive party. Goodger, who was reportedly still in love with him, is asked by Wright what her ideal Christmas present would be. She suggests a trip to New York, implying she hopes to go with him.
A Painful Exchange and a Secret Taxi
Wright responds by telling her, "Obviously you know if we could work it out I'd get back with you tonight. But I don't feel that can happen right now." He adds, "I do still love you. I don't need to lie to you." When pressed on who he would choose to be with, Wright names Goodger as the "easiest option" because she is the one he loves.
The emotionally charged exchange leaves Goodger in tears. Wright then leaves the party, calling a friend to complain that "the girls are all driving me mad." The scene's most damning moment follows, as the camera reveals Wright getting into a taxi where his co-star Sam Faiers is waiting. The pair share a kiss and drive away, with Wright winking at the camera.
Social Media Fury Over 'Diabolical' Behaviour
The clip's resurgence has sparked a furious reaction on social media, with many viewers condemning Wright's treatment of Goodger. Comments on the viral video have been scathing.
Key criticisms from viewers include:
- He was "so cruel for that - asking what she wants for Xmas... then he followed it up with NOTHING?"
- "What a nasty piece of work he was."
- "How did mark have a career after this? He was diabolical!!"
- "He absolutely broke poor Lauren! She deserved so much better."
- Many also criticised his family for supporting his behaviour at the time.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the early, often controversial drama that made TOWIE a hit, and how public perceptions of past reality TV moments can shift dramatically over time.
