Hey there, friends. If you’ve been following Billy Gardell’s career for a while, you’ve probably noticed a significant change in his appearance. The beloved star of Mike & Molly has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding a substantial amount of weight in recent years. Billy opened up about his journey, sharing that it all started when he faced some serious health challenges that made him rethink his lifestyle choices.
So, How Did Billy Gardell Lose All That Weight?
Let me tell you, Billy’s story isn’t just about numbers on the scale—it’s about reclaiming his health and vitality. At his peak weight, Billy tipped the scales at a staggering 370 pounds. But here’s the thing: during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, his doctors suggested he consider bariatric surgery as a way to take control of his health. Billy, being the witty guy he is, didn’t hesitate once he understood the benefits.
Now, Billy didn’t jump into surgery lightly. He started by making small but impactful changes to his lifestyle. “At first, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, so I went on medication for about a year and started taking better care of myself,” Billy explained to Entertainment Tonight back in September 2022. “I managed to lose around 30 pounds just by tweaking my habits. But then, you know, the pandemic hit, and when they listed all the risk factors for severe illness, I checked off almost every box. I was like, ‘Wow, this is my wake-up call.’”
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Billy celebrated each small victory along the way, cherishing moments that might seem ordinary to others but were monumental for him. “Shopping at a regular store instead of the big and tall section? That’s a win,” he said with a grin. “Being able to tie my shoes without struggling for breath? Another win. These little things add up, and they remind me why I started this journey in the first place.”
For Billy, the emotional side of weight loss was just as important as the physical. Growing up, food was often tied to emotions—good days or bad days, it was always present. “Food was how we celebrated, how we coped. It was everything,” he admitted. “But I realized that food should be fuel, not a crutch. That mindset shift has been crucial. It’s not easy, and it’s something I work on every single day. If you’ve never struggled with food, count yourself lucky. It’s an addiction, just like anything else. But I’ve found my path, and I’m grateful for it.”
As a family man, Billy is proud to set a healthier example for his loved ones, especially his son, William, and his wife, Patty Gardell. “As a dad, I want to show my kid that it’s never too late to make a change. Age doesn’t matter. If you commit to doing something a little bit every day, you can transform your life. That’s the lesson I want him to carry forward,” Billy reflected with heartfelt sincerity.
How Much Weight Has Billy Gardell Actually Lost?
Now, let’s talk numbers. Since embarking on his weight loss journey, the star of Young Sheldon and Bob Hearts Abishola has lost an impressive 150-plus pounds. “I hover between 205 and 210 pounds now,” Billy told Entertainment Tonight in April 2023. “Taking care of myself has become a priority, and it feels amazing to finally be in this place.”
Billy also shared some wisdom he’s gained along the way. “At some point, you’ve got to look in the mirror and say, ‘Hey, it’s time to take care of yourself.’ For me, that realization didn’t come early, but hey, better late than never, right? Once you get it, you get it—and that’s all that matters.”
