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Fat Friends was a British television comedy-drama that aired on ITV from 2000 to 2005. The show was created and written by Kay Mellor, who also directed some episodes, and followed a group of overweight friends in Leeds as they navigated their personal and professional lives.

The show centers on the character of Kelly (Gaynor Faye), a successful slimmer who runs a slimming club and dreams of becoming thin enough to fit into a wedding dress. She is supported by her best friend and fellow slimmer, Lauren (Natalie Anderson), as well as a group of other overweight friends, including Kelly's mother, Betty (Alison Steadman), and her husband, Kevin (James Corden).

Throughout the series, Kelly and her friends deal with a range of issues related to their weight and lifestyles, including relationship problems, body shaming, and the challenges of losing weight. The show also explores themes of self-acceptance, body positivity, and the importance of supportive friendships.

One of the highlights of the show is its cast of talented actors. Gaynor Faye, who plays Kelly, is a well-known actress in the UK, having appeared in a variety of popular TV shows and stage productions. Her performance as Kelly is nuanced and heartfelt, and she effectively conveys the character's struggles and insecurities. James Corden, who plays Kelly's husband, Kevin, is another standout, bringing his signature comic timing and warmth to the role.

In addition to its strong cast, Fat Friends is also notable for its portrayal of overweight characters. The show avoids stereotypes and presents its characters as fully realized individuals with their own hopes, fears, and aspirations. While weight loss is a major focus of the show, it is not presented as a cure-all solution, and the characters continue to face challenges even after shedding pounds.

Another noteworthy aspect of the show is its setting in Leeds. The city is depicted as a vibrant and diverse place, and the show's working-class characters reflect the realities of life in the north of England. The show also makes use of local locations, including the city's iconic Corn Exchange building, which serves as the backdrop for Kelly's slimming club.

Overall, Fat Friends is a heartwarming and entertaining show that explores important themes with humor and sensitivity. Its portrayal of overweight characters is refreshing and nuanced, and its strong cast of actors make the show a joy to watch. While the series is no longer on the air, it remains a beloved favorite of many viewers, and its messages about body positivity and self-acceptance continue to resonate.

Fat Friends is a series that ran for 4 seasons (25 episodes) between January 1, 2000 and on ITV