Lisa Riley's New Wardrobe Due to Significant Weight Loss

Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley has revealed that the costume department for the ITV soap opera has had to purchase an entirely new wardrobe for her character, Mandy Dingle, as Riley's own significant weight loss has rendered her previous costumes too large.

Riley, 50, has shed 12 stone, a transformation that began after her appearance on "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2012. She credits a healthier lifestyle, including going teetotal, for her weight reduction. The actress noted in an interview with Closer magazine that her character's clothes are now too big, necessitating the purchase of new outfits for Mandy Dingle.

Her weight loss journey accelerated after the passing of her mother in 2012. Riley mentioned that she lost 20lb during her time on "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!," attributing this to the camp's diet of rice and beans and the active nature of the show. She elaborated that the constant physical activity, from walking to challenges, contributes to burning off calories consumed, even with basic meals.

Riley, who transitioned from a size 30 to a size 14 over two years, also highlighted the importance of portion control and active living in her weight management. She found that while vegetarian options like Quorn and tofu were part of her diet on "I'm A Celebrity," she learned to prepare them more effectively, turning initially bland meals into enjoyable ones.

She expressed pride in her accomplishments and her ability to inspire others through her health journey. Riley's commitment to fitness includes attending gym classes like Zumba and aiming for 10,000 steps daily, even while on set.