The Only Way Is Essex is reportedly getting a brand new spin-off which could bring some of the show's biggest names back together for explosive reunions. ITV bosses are said to have given the go-ahead to a new therapy-based format which would see former and current TOWIE stars revisit some of the most significant moments of their lives.
New therapy-based format
The long-running reality series first launched in 2010 and has followed its cast through marriages, babies, bitter break-ups and family tragedies during its 38 series on air. Now producers are reportedly planning to delve deeper into the stories viewers have watched unfold over the years.
According to The Sun, the team behind TOWIE pitched the new format to higher-ups at the broadcaster, who are said to have approved the idea. It could even pave the way for former couple Gemma Collins and James Argent to appear together again, years after their turbulent relationship played out in front of viewers.
Stars to open up with therapists
An insider told the publication: "Towie is known for documenting everything from births and breakups to deeply personal turning points. And now they want to place the show's stars in a more introspective spotlight."
"Each episode will pair a cast member with a therapist, inviting them to open up on camera about defining moments in their lives." The source suggested there is no shortage of powerful subjects producers could explore, including Lauren Goodger speaking about the devastating loss of her baby daughter Lorena, and Harry Derbidge discussing his experience with an eating disorder.
Early stages and potential broadcast
The proposed series is reportedly still at an early stage, with producers now approaching faces from TOWIE's past as well as members of its current cast. Filming is expected to take place ahead of a potential broadcast next year.
"It's in the early stages at the moment but the show is coming together and ITV and the production company are really keen to push ahead," the insider added. "It feels fresh and new, and gives fans of Towie even more content from their favourite faces."
Ongoing tension between current stars
News of the planned spin-off comes amid ongoing tension between current stars Harry and Elma Pazar. The former close friends fell out following drama surrounding a cast trip to Vietnam last year, with Harry accusing Elma of spreading gossip.
Elma has now spoken about the breakdown of her friendship with Harry during an appearance on Billie Faiers' You Alright Hun? podcast. She said: "We were really close, at one point we were inseparable, I was on the phone to Harry all the time, we lived through a lot together – we lived through Harry's worst days together."
"I'd say it was extremely hard for Harry but it was hard for both of us because you do take on your friends' problems." Asked where the pair currently stand, Elma suggested they had made some progress but didn't see their relationship returning to what it once was. She teased: "You'll see, but I'd say we're taking steps forward, but I would say there are no more steps."
Discussing their time together in Albania, she added: "I think it was going in that direction and obviously Albania was nice but it was still very much like co-existing and keeping each other at arm's length. I was quite stern and had no intention of making up with Harry anyway, so for me it probably didn't upset me as much as he would have wanted me to be upset by it. It is what it is." The Mirror has contacted ITV reps for a comment.
