The Only Way Is Essex star Bobby Norris has opened up about his decision to have a facelift, linking it to a long-standing battle with depression and the effects of online trolling.

A Difficult Conversation in Mykonos

A poignant conversation with Norris took place in August 2020 on the Greek island of Mykonos. He was accompanied by close friend and fellow TOWIE cast member, Gemma Collins.

Collins was dealing with a difficult breakup with James ‘Arg’ Argent at the time, but her primary focus was on Norris’s wellbeing. She brought him to Mykonos hoping to provide a supportive escape.

Underlying Sadness and Confession

During a shared dinner, Norris bravely confided in the interviewer about his struggles with depression. Collins had been deeply concerned about him and encouraged him to join her on the holiday.

This occurred during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the isolation and anxieties of that period may have contributed to his distress. He was attempting a body transformation, driven by anxieties about his appearance stemming from online trolling after appearing on TOWIE.

Facelift and Past Struggles

Norris recently appeared on ITV’s This Morning to reveal his facelift at the age of 39. He explained his decision was due to ten years of ‘abusing fillers’ which left his skin ‘like a deflated balloon’.

The surgery, performed in Turkey in March, included a facelift, neck lift, and lower blepharoplasty to address under-eye bags. He had previously spoken to MPs about the devastating impact of online abuse on his mental health, stating it triggered anxiety and caused significant problems.

Fractured Friendship and Ongoing Impact

The dramatic transformation has surprised many, with concerns raised about his wellbeing. Those close to him have noted his struggles with the pressures of fame and constant scrutiny, and the profound effect of online trolling.

Norris and Gemma Collins have experienced a fallout, despite her attempts to reconnect. He claims he is unable to reach her due to her multiple phone numbers, highlighting the complexities of relationships within reality television and the lasting impact of fame on mental health.