It’s not unusual for viewers of This Time Next Year to be left in bits at the end of the show, but no one was prepared for the “inspiring” and “amazing” story of Darren.
On Tuesday (19 February), the foster carer appeared on Davina McCall’s entertainment series which showcases an array of incredible real-life transformations.
Read more: Coronation Street’s Sue Cleaver: The secrets to her THREE-stone weight loss
Clinically obese, Darren revealed his desire to lose 10 stone and get healthier for the sake of his foster kids.
Appearing exactly one year later, he stunned viewers when he returned after losing an amazing eight stone.
He told Davina: “I feel amazing. This is the beginning, my life’s changed so much.”
Read more: Bride to dump best friend who refuses to lose weight from wedding
Even more impressive, Darren has managed to lose the weight despite suffering an unexpected family tragedy.
He told Davina that his dad had died last year, saying: “When I first went on to do this, one of the people that was happiest was my dad.
“And, at the end of August, he died.”
He continued: “And you just think, ‘No, I’ve just got to get on with this’. So all of this as well, it was so hard.”
As Davina expressed her sadness at the news, viewers flocked to express their admiration for the man on Twitter.
One fan write: “I love this show… So proud of the first chap tonight. Foster carer extraordinaire! Amazing, fabulous man and so very lovely! Well done Darren.”
Another said: “Wow! Darren is an absolute inspiration to many! Well done Darren @TTNY_UK @ThisisDavina #ThisTimeNextYear.”
https://twitter.com/claire_pleavin/status/1097951771593502725
https://twitter.com/JGwendella/status/1097954570347728897
https://twitter.com/Edbangurl/status/1097951669764218880
Oh I just love Darren so much!! #ThisTimeNextYear
— Holly Roskilly (@Holsx) February 19, 2019
https://twitter.com/lgchoc1971/status/1097951557084164096
I don't care how many weight loss stories there are, the weight gain has aften come from some other deeper and hidden battle that has to be overcome first, it's not just losing weight! Darren you are amazing #ThisTimeNextYear @ThisisDavina
— marelli (@beautifulpop) February 19, 2019
Omg I can’t cope with Darren on ‘This time next year’ what a cutie❤️❤️❤️❤️ #ThisTimeNextYear
— Natalie Gill (@Nataliegill_xo) February 19, 2019
https://twitter.com/JonoMGreaves/status/1097950789644025856
https://twitter.com/h0lah0e/status/1097950822338576385
A third gushed: “Was just on while I was folding up washing and now I’m sat nearly in tears watching this guy achieve his goals. Top man! Darren! Hard work paid off and he looks fabulous! What a lovely soul! #ThisTimeNextYear.”
“Aw Darren,” said another. “I’m in bits.”
There were plenty more tears to come on the show, too, as Davina met a teenager intent on joining the police force, a brave grandmother keen to reclaim her independence, and a couple longing for a baby.
Cue Davina looking misty-eyed into the face of a newborn. Awwwww!
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