More than a decade after first appearing on TLC’s My 600-lb Life, Amber Rachdi continues to inspire thousands with her remarkable weight-loss journey, honesty about mental health, and refreshing sense of humor.
When viewers first met Rachdi during Season 3 of the reality series in 2015, they were just 23 years old and weighed approximately 657 pounds. Struggling with mobility, anxiety, and daily activities, Rachdi turned to Dr. Younan Nowzaradan’s weight-loss program in hopes of reclaiming their life.
Their transformation has been extraordinary. By the end of their time on the show, Rachdi had lost 377 pounds, and today they have shed more than 470 pounds overall, making them one of the most successful weight-loss stories in the show’s history.
Building a Social Media Following Through Honesty
Although Rachdi never set out to become an influencer, their candid approach to sharing life’s challenges has attracted a large audience. With nearly 470,000 Instagram followers, they regularly post updates about their health, mental well-being, and ongoing recovery journey.
Followers have connected with Rachdi’s openness about living with conditions including lymphedema, lipedema, fibrosis, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Their combination of humor, authenticity, and body-positive messaging has even caught the attention of celebrities, including Grammy-winning singer SZA.
Choosing a Career Outside Social Media
Despite their online popularity, Rachdi has repeatedly stated that they have no interest in becoming a full-time influencer. Instead, they work in the information technology (IT) field and maintain a relatively normal professional life away from social media.
Rachdi has emphasized that their Instagram account is not monetized and that they have never earned income through influencer partnerships, preferring to focus on sharing their experiences rather than building a brand.
Undergoing Skin Reconstruction Surgery
After losing hundreds of pounds, Rachdi faced another challenge: excess skin removal surgery. Encouraged by followers, they launched a crowdfunding campaign to help cover the costs of reconstructive procedures.
In early 2026, Rachdi successfully underwent brachioplasty, a surgery that removes excess skin from the arms. The procedure marked a major milestone in their transformation journey, though additional surgeries may still be needed in the future.
Throughout the process, they kept followers updated, openly discussing both the excitement and anxiety that came with such a life-changing operation.
Life After Reality Television
Rachdi’s personal life has also evolved significantly since their appearance on My 600-lb Life. They eventually ended their relationship with longtime boyfriend Rowdy, explaining that the split was amicable and stemmed from differing long-term goals regarding family life.
The two remain friends, and Rachdi has since focused primarily on personal growth, health, and recovery.
Advocating for Mental Health and Body Positivity
One of the reasons Rachdi continues to resonate with audiences is their commitment to discussing mental health. They have spoken openly about anxiety, depression, and the emotional challenges that contributed to their struggles with food.
At the same time, they advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance, encouraging followers to embrace themselves while pursuing healthier lives. Their message centers on progress rather than perfection.
Honoring Others from the Show
Rachdi has also used their platform to remember former My 600-lb Life participants who have passed away. They frequently remind followers that every weight-loss journey is different and discourage comparisons between cast members.
According to Rachdi, factors such as family support, access to healthcare, and personal circumstances play a major role in long-term success.
No Plans to Return to ‘My 600-lb Life’
While the show helped change their life, Rachdi has stated that they do not plan to return to the franchise. In past interviews, they described difficult experiences behind the scenes during filming, though they have spoken positively about Dr. Nowzaradan and the medical care they received.
Today, at 35, Amber Rachdi continues to share their journey with honesty, humor, and resilience. Their story remains one of the most inspiring transformations to emerge from My 600-lb Life, proving that lasting change is possible even in the face of tremendous challenges.
