The popularity of the TLC reality show My 600-lb Life has led to a phenomenon where many of its featured individuals go on to become global sensations, with a significant number achieving widespread recognition and admiration. The show’s intimate portrayal of their weight loss journeys, coupled with the expertise of Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, has captivated audiences worldwide, making the participants instant celebrities. Many have leveraged their newfound fame to share their stories, inspire others, and even monetize their experiences through social media, books, and speaking engagements.
James “L.B” Bonner became one of the most talked-about people to feature on My 600-lb Life, with many finding his story both heartbreaking and uplifting. Sadly, Bonner passed away on August 2, 2018. He was 30 years old at the time of passing. In honour of his name, here’s his inspirational story and journey as part of My 600-lb Life.
How James Bonner Came to Feature on My 600-lb Life
James Bonner featured on season 6 of My 600-lb Life. He decided to appear on the show after his weight gain had spiralled out of control and he realized he needed to make a change. Before filming the show, Bonner had been through a series of unfortunate events that led to his weight gain.
Before he started filming My 600-lb Life in 2013, Bonner tragically lost his leg in a serious car accident. As he fell into hard times mentally and physically, he turned to food and alcohol for comfort. However, due to his overindulgence, he reached a weight of 650 pounds. He therefore made the decision to seek Dr. Nowzaradan’s assistance in order to better manage his health. During his time on the show, Bonner wowed audiences with his commitment to getting healthier, dropping down to 316 pounds by the end of his stint on the series.
How Did James Bonner Die?
During the filming of My 600-lb Life, James Bonner not only lost a tremendous amount of weight, but he also became sober. Following his appearance on the show, Bonner remained active on social media, often posting to his Facebook and Instagram page, documenting his weight-loss journey. Following his time on the show, Bonner kept his weight loss moving, reportedly dropping down to 200lbs through further dieting and exercise. However, his social media would also be the platform that he would leave his final message to the world.
After his neighbours became concerned about him, the police arrived at his home in South Carolina to carry out a welfare check. Sadly, Bonner was confirmed dead at the scene. He was found laying in a ditch by his house with a gunshot wound. Foul play was soon ruled out and it was reported that Bonner took his own life.
Before his body was found, Bonner released a message on his Facebook page. The message said: “I just want to say thank you to everyone who has shown me love and support throughout my journey. I’ve realized a few things over the last few days and its time that I face my demons head on. No matter what you change or the efforts you put forth in life, sometimes you just have to take it on the chin and deal with things your own way. Again, thank y’all so much. Please don’t ever let people you care about not know how you feel… Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be Kind. ALWAYS.”
Tributes Poured In Following His Passing
In the wake of the tragic news, many fans of Bonner and his friends and family took to his Facebook page to commemorate his life. TLC Network also released a heartfelt statement. It read: “On the show, viewers saw LB struggle with obesity following a tragic accident that claimed his right leg. Even though he once weighed 650 pounds, LB’s hard work and dedication helped get him in the 200-pound range. His spirit and determination as displayed through his story, quickly made LB a fan-favorite.”
The family and friends Bonner left behind left many endearing messages on his social media accounts. His niece, Chelsea Boivin, wrote: “RIP Uncle L.B. Bonner. I hope and pray your pain and suffering is lifted off your shoulders now. You created a huge impact on so many people through your journey of life, weight loss, and struggles… Rest easy!” His girlfriend Destiny Honneycutt shared pictures of the two of them together, with the caption: “I just need you back!!!” Sadly, Bonner wasn’t the only star of My 600-lb Life to pass away after featuring on the show. Here’s what happened to fellow My 600-lb Life star, Larry ‘Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits’ Myers Jr.
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