Gemma Collins’ ex-boyfriend, James ‘Arg’ Argent, is reportedly astounded over her wedding invitation. Wedding bells are soon to chime for Gemma, 43 and her fiancé Rami Hawash, and it turns out her former flame James Argent is thrilled for them. The pair first crossed paths on The Only Way Is Essex back in 2011 and spent nearly a decade in an on-and-off relationship. Now, there might be a TOWIE reunion with Gemma disclosing that the entire cast of TOWIE is welcome at her upcoming nuptials. The reality TV icon professed: “I’d love to see Chloe Sims there. Everyone from the show is more than welcome to come, actually there’s no bad blood between us.”
However, an insider has revealed that Arg was quite taken aback when he discovered he could be on the guest list, prompting him to contemplate Gemma’s kind gesture. “Arg was shocked to hear that the entire cast of TOWIE might be invited to Gemma’s wedding,” the source told OK! Magazine. “It was generous of her to say it, but if that were to include him along with everyone else, it could be a bit awkward. He would have a dilemma on his hands. He is very happy for Gemma, though, and a part of him really wants to share her happy day. He also wouldn’t want to look petty by not turning up if invited.”
Gemma and Arg were in an on-off relationship for over ten years. Previously, Arg has mentioned that he remains friends with Gemma and given their history and that they are always going to be close despite their differences. According to the insider, Arg is now cheering for Gemma’s happiness after finding his own. “There’s no denying they have had many ups and downs, but Arg wouldn’t want to make it difficult in any way or bring up any memories of their past. He couldn’t be happier for Gemma now that she’s getting married it’s all she’s ever wanted,” the insider told.
The tumultuous relationship between Gemma and Arg was marred by allegations of harsh text exchanges and strained further by Arg’s struggle with cocaine addiction. However, Gemma has clearly turned a new leaf, gleaming with joy as she sports a stunning platinum engagement ring from her 49 year old fiance, businessman Rami. While Gemma is beaming in engagement bliss, Arg recently broke up with his 19-year-old girlfriend, Stella Turian. Last year, Arg participated in Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, impressing fans with his transformation after shedding 13st and overcoming a serious drug addiction. At the peak of his celebrity status, he confessed to being a regular drug user, which nearly cost him his life following two overdoses.
However, after years of maintaining sobriety, James has spoken candidly about his past troubles, aiming to provide support and hope to others facing similar challenges with substance abuse. On The Cabin Recovery podcast, the TV personality recounted a harrowing moment: “I remember waking up at the bottom of my staircase, with blood pouring down my face, like where am I? What am I doing? Screaming for help, but there was nobody around. I was in such a bad physical condition that I couldn’t really stand up. I hadn’t eaten for days on end.”
Arg has expressed gratitude towards Gemma for her crucial role during his darkest times, offering him “tough love”. He said: “If it wasn’t for Gemma calling the ambulances and stuff to my house, God knows what could have happened.”