Towie star in shock return to the show TODAY after being axed by show bosses and five years off screen
TOWIE’s James Argent is set for a shock return to the show today after being axed by show bosses.
James, 36, who’s spent five years away from the show, will make a special appearance in the Christmas special, which films in just a matter of hours.
A source told The Sun: “Arg is really excited to be back filming this cameo with cast and crew.
“It’s been a long time since he was last on Towie and he’s in such a great place personally.
“He felt like this was the perfect moment for him to pop back to see his Towie pals, old and new.”
James was axed from the hit series in 2021 after testing positive for cocaine during a routine drug test.
At the time, show bosses made the tough decision to remove him, citing concerns about his health and behavior.
A TV source said: “It’s a shame but James’ problems flared up again, and he failed a routine test.
“As a result Lime Pictures aren’t working with him, and it has sparked more concerns among his friends who fear he isn’t looking after himself.
“His weight has rocketed recently which he says he plans to tackle, but getting back involved with drugs is even worse. It’s a dangerous path he is going down.”
It wasn’t the first time a drug issue has prevented the star from appearing on the show.
He reportedly volunteered to do routine tests before the filming began for the show because of concerns over his previous issues with drugs and alcohol.
The source added that the production crew of TOWIE hope he can overcome his issue and are very fond of him.
James, best known as Arg, made his debut on Towie all the way back when the show first aired in 2010.
He appeared alongside the likes of Mark Wright, Lydia Bright, Sam Faiers, Amy Childs and Lucy Mecklenburgh.
The reality star has struggled over the years with alcohol and addiction over the years.
In 2017, he checked himself into a rehab facility in Thailand, for his ‘mental and physical wellbeing’.