Unveiling the Untold Struggles: The Devastating Journeys of 'My 600-Lb Life'

Lisa Fleming, Gina Krasley, Robert Buchel, and several other former stars of My 600-Lb. Life have sadly passed away throughout the years. The show initially debuted on TLC in 2012, with season 1 showcasing patients who were filmed for a span of seven years. However, the format of the show was later adjusted, and starting from season 2, cast members were documented over the course of one year. As the show progressed to season 8, some stars were only filmed for a duration of six months.

In 2013, tragedy struck the reality show when Henry Foots, the star of season 1, passed away. Five years later, the Lexington County Coroner's Office in South Carolina confirmed that James "L.B." Bonner died at a park from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Despite facing the challenges of obesity and the loss of his right leg due to a tragic accident, L.B.'s determination and hard work paid off, leading him to achieve a weight range of around 200 pounds from his previous weight of 650 pounds. This inspiring journey made him a beloved figure among viewers and earned him a special place in the hearts of his family and friends. To honor his life, tributes have been pouring in on L.B.'s Facebook page. TLC expressed their deep sadness upon learning about L.B.'s passing and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share his honest and courageous story on the show "My 600-lb Life."

She expressed her condolences for her mother's passing on Facebook during that period.

"I am utterly speechless right now. It's as if fate knew that it was best for me, even though I desperately wished for you to hold on until I arrived," Danielle expressed. "I couldn't bear to witness you in that state! Earlier today, I sat by your side, grasping your hands for four long hours, fully aware that nothing I could have done would have brought you back to me. Anyone who knows me understands that I dedicated myself entirely to my mother. She was my entire world, and I was her number one supporter. Mommy, my love for you extends from here to the stars and back! The children adored you even more. I find solace in knowing that you are no longer in pain, no longer confined to that bed."

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Credit: YouTube

‘My 600-Lb. Life’ Tragedies

Several former stars of the reality show My 600-Lb. Life, including Lisa Fleming, Gina Krasley, and Robert Buchel, have sadly passed away throughout the years. The show first aired on TLC in 2012, with season 1 showcasing patients filmed over a span of seven years. However, starting from season 2, the format changed to capturing the journeys of cast members over a single year. As the show progressed to season 8, some stars were only documented for a duration of six months.

In 2013, tragedy struck the reality show when Henry Foots, the star of season 1, passed away. Five years later, the Lexington County Coroner's Office in South Carolina confirmed that James "L.B." Bonner died from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at a park.

According to the network's statement in August 2018, viewers of the show witnessed L.B.'s struggle with obesity after a tragic accident resulted in the loss of his right leg. Despite once weighing 650 pounds, L.B.'s determination and hard work helped him achieve a weight in the 200-pound range. His story quickly made him a fan favorite, and family and friends have used L.B.'s Facebook page to remember and honor his life. TLC expressed deep sadness upon learning of L.B.'s passing and expressed gratitude for being able to share his honest and courageous journey on My 600-lb Life.

She expressed her condolences for her mother's passing through a heartfelt post on Facebook during that period.

"I am at a loss for words right now. I had hoped you would hold on until I arrived, but perhaps it was for the best," expressed Danielle. "Witnessing you in that state was something I couldn't bear. This morning, I sat by your side, clasping your hands for four long hours, knowing deep down that my efforts would not bring you back to me. Those who are acquainted with me understand the extent of my devotion to my mother. She was my entire world, and I was her number one supporter. Mommy, my love for you extends beyond the stars and back! Your grandchildren adored you even more. I find solace in the fact that you are now free from pain and no longer confined to that bed."

Since August 2021, a total of 10 individuals have passed away after their appearances on the show.

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Credit: YouTube

Larry 'Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits' Myers Jr.

Meyes, who gained internet fame for his video showcasing his love for food, had a weight of 940 pounds when he made his appearance on the TLC series in 2022. Tragically, this aspiring gospel singer passed away in June 2023, just days after celebrating his 49th birthday.

Credit: TLC

Destinee LaShaee

Destinee, who made history as the first transgender woman on My 600-Lb. Life during season 7 in 2019, bravely shared her journey and battles with mental health. Tragically, her brother, Wayne Compton, confirmed her untimely passing in February 2022. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Wayne expressed his deep sorrow, apologizing for any moments when Destinee may have felt alone or unsupported. He lamented the loss of yet another sibling and questioned why his family has endured so much pain.

Credit: TLC

Henry Foots

During his seven-year journey, which aired in 2012, the star of season 1 managed to shed an incredible 440 pounds. Tragically, less than a year later, he passed away, leaving behind an obituary that mentioned his peaceful transition to the afterlife. The cause of his untimely demise remains a mystery.

Credit: TLC

Sean Milliken

Sean appeared on the show in 2016. His father, Matt Milliken, confirmed in February 2019 that he died of complications of an infection at the age of 29.

“Sean had been admitted to the hospital a few days earlier due to an infection,” Matt shared on Facebook. “On Sunday, he experienced difficulties with his breathing, but the medical staff managed to resuscitate him. However, shortly after, his heart ceased to beat.”

Credit: TLC

James King

James, who appeared on season 5, died in April 2020. He was previously hospitalized for health issues related to his kidney.

Credit: YouTube via TLC

James ‘L.B.’ Bonner

L.B., who appeared on season 6, was found dead in August 2018 at the age of 30.

Credit: TLC

Lisa Fleming

In August 2018, Lisa’s daughter, Danielle, broke the news that the season 6 star died at the age of 50.

Credit: Discovery+

Robert Buchel

In 2017, tragedy struck when Robert suffered a fatal heart attack during the filming of the series. His fiancée, Kathryn Lemanski, shared her heartbreak on a February 2018 episode of the show, expressing the immense loss of not only her best friend but also the person she had envisioned spending the rest of her life with. She tearfully recounted Robert's last words to her, where he expressed his doubts about surviving the night but assured her of his everlasting love.

Credit: YouTube

Kelly Mason

The season 7 personality was the second person to die while filming the TLC series, passing away in her sleep due to cardiac arrest in 2019 at the age of 41.

Credit: TLC

Coliesa, a participant on season 8 of My 600-Lb. Life, passed away at the age of 41 in September 2020. Although the cause of her death was not disclosed, Coliesa experienced a heart attack shortly before her episode aired in March 2020.

Coliesa McMillian

Credit: YouTube

Renee Biran

The season 6 star died at the age of 55 in May 2021.

Credit: Courtesy TLC/YouTube

Gina Krasley

Gina, who appeared on season 8, died in August 2021 at the age of 30.