Lauren Goodger has broken her silence on why she did not join her TOWIE co-stars for the show's dramatic trip to Vietnam. The reality star, who first appeared on The Only Way Is Essex in 2010, opted to stay in Essex while the cast travelled to Southeast Asia for the 37th series.
Why Lauren Stayed Behind
Speaking exclusively, Lauren explained: "The reason I didn't go to Vietnam is it was a little bit too far for me. I wasn't ready to leave my little one and I thought I'll stay at home in Essex." She added that she filmed with Saffron Lempriere, Sophie Kasaei, and Amy Childs instead, saying: "I'm glad I missed it." Junaid Ahmed even Facetimed her from Vietnam, showing the drama unfolding. "He Facetimed me when he was there with everyone and I was like 'oh my god' and it is shocking but it's good," she said.
Cast Drama and Feuds
Reports have suggested that cast members were "at each other's throats" during the lavish holiday, with plenty of drama and unexpected feuds set to air throughout the series. Lauren's decision to stay home may have spared her from the tension.
Lauren's Journey on TOWIE
Fans will remember Lauren as an original cast member when TOWIE launched in 2010. She left in 2012, made brief returns in 2015 and 2016, and returned permanently in 2024. Since then, she has faced immense personal tragedy: she welcomed daughter Larose in 2021, but her second daughter Lorena tragically passed away at just two days old in 2022.
Healing and Confidence
The reality star says the show has helped her regain her confidence after her loss. "It's so different for me now. I've come back and I'm a mum and I just don't get involved in the drama," she said. "I'm more like the big sister and I'm friends with everyone. I lost myself for a little while and I'm slowly getting Lauren back and my confidence back."
She added: "Quite a lot of people have been through what I've been through or similar trauma and I feel like bringing that onto the show helps other people and that's what I want to do. I want to show that side because it isn't all glitz and glam and it's been a long journey for me. I'm still healing but this series has been really good for me. I found new connections and new friendships."
The Only Way Is Essex airs Sundays and Mondays on ITV2 at 9pm and is available on ITVX.
