Lauren Goodger joined Amy Childs and other cast members of The Only Way Is Essex for filming in Essex on Wednesday, appearing in a black dress as she discussed wanting to reverse cosmetic surgery and became emotional about the anniversary of her late daughter, Lorena.
Goodger, 38, arrived for the day's scenes wearing a sophisticated black dress and a quilted Chanel bag, with her hair swept back. Childs, 35, attended with her fiancé, Billy Delbosq, in white jeans and a fitted brown top. Several regulars were also present, including Diags and girlfriend Jodie Wells, Junaid Ahmed, Joe Blackman, Roman Hackett, Sammy Root, Jordan Brook and Sophie Kasaei.
In new scenes filmed for the series, Goodger joined Junaid Ahmed, Saffron Lempriere, Childs, Freddie Bentley and Livvy Jay for a picnic in the park. She told her co-stars that the day was difficult for her because "three years ago I lost Lorena in labour." She added that Lorena "should be here" and said it was harder because her eldest daughter, Larose, will soon have a birthday and "she hasn't got a sister when she should have a sister."
"Obviously it's a really hard day for me," Goodger said on camera. She also referred to keeping her grief internal: "Last year I stayed in with Larose in the garden and now I have to get out and talk about her rather than hiding." Co-stars offered support; Junaid Ahmed told her she was strong and had friends and family around her. Freddie Bentley described the situation as "so cruel," and Childs reassured Goodger that she could call at any time.
Goodger gave birth to her second daughter in July 2022; Lorena died shortly after birth with the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck, the programme noted. The anniversary of that loss has been a recurring subject for Goodger, who previously criticised friends and family on social media for not contacting her on the date, calling those who did not reach out "a disgrace" in a post she later deleted. She and Larose marked the date last year by releasing a balloon beside a plaque that reads "always in our hearts."
Childs, who has publicly addressed recent weight loss, told viewers in an Instagram clip that she had received many questions about it and said she would like to put on a stone in weight. She also confronted online criticism, responding to social media trolls who had sent her hurtful comments about her appearance.
The filming day included a range of fashion choices from cast members: Jodie Wells drew attention for a leggy look, Sophie Kasaei wore a brown-and-white striped dress with white sandals, and Roman Hackett arrived in a navy ensemble. Diags and his partner showed public displays of affection while Joe Blackman and Junaid Ahmed appeared in upbeat spirits.
Producers have not released broadcast details for the filmed scenes. The Only Way Is Essex continues to blend personal storylines and interpersonal drama among its cast, and Goodger's on-camera conversation with co-stars adds to the programme's recent focus on real-life events shaping participants' lives.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact the UK Child Bereavement Charity on 0800 02 888 40 or The Lullaby Trust on 0808 802 6868.