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UK Show's Brutal Tactics Haunt Former Participant
24 Jan
Summary
- Participant Tarnya Cuff was left traumatised and suicidal by the show.
- Show host Steve Miller is planning a controversial YouTube return.
- Tarnya Cuff shares regret over son's bullying due to show's editing.

Tarnya Cuff, who appeared on the controversial UK show 'Fat Families' in 2008, has spoken out about the severe trauma and suicidal thoughts she experienced as a result of her participation. The show, hosted by Steve Miller, is known for its harsh critiques of overweight families.
Now, 16 years after her appearance, Miller plans to revive 'Fat Families' for YouTube, a prospect that has horrified Cuff. She fears the lack of production filters on YouTube will exacerbate the show's damaging effects, particularly on young viewers.
Cuff regrets her involvement, citing the show's misleading editing which led to her son being relentlessly bullied. She claims the production team encouraged exaggerations of their eating habits and purchasing of unhealthy foods for filming purposes.
While Miller defends the show as a form of tough love, aiming to help people "get yourself in order," Cuff advocates for self-acceptance, sharing her journey of weight loss through a gastric sleeve and finding happiness independent of her size.
Despite the differing experiences of families who appeared on the show, with some finding it beneficial and others labelling it "social suicide," Miller maintains no regrets, stating his intent is to encourage viewers to "get yourself in order now."




