It has been a dramatic week for The Only Way Is Essex. ITV has announced the release date for the new series, while the cast film in Vietnam amid rumours of shocking feuds. However, the joy of the upcoming episodes has been overshadowed by the tragic news of a former star’s death .
From explosive rows in the heat of Southeast Asia to an inquest into a cast member’s sudden passing, TOWIE remains as chaotic as ever. Here is the latest round-up of news from the show .
News of a Star’s Tragic Death
A former reality TV personality was found dead in a drainage ditch in Thailand, an inquest has heard. Jordan Wright, 33, appeared on TOWIE in 2018 and on Ex on the Beach in 2017. He was spending time in Phuket when his body was discovered on March 14 [citation:2][citation:5].
An inquest in Chelmsford heard he had moved there for a fresh start. A post-mortem examination was carried out, but pathologists are waiting for toxicology results [citation:2]. The senior coroner offered his “deepest condolences” to Wright’s family and loved ones [citation:2].
Tributes poured in from fellow reality stars. Chloe Brockett posted “rest in peace Jordan” on Instagram. Liam “Gatsby” Blackwell wrote: “Miss you already brother” [citation:5][citation:8].
Like James Argent, Jordan had sought a new life abroad. Sadly, his fresh start ended in tragedy thousands of miles from home.
New Series Start Date Confirmed
Amidst the sadness, ITV has confirmed that the show is returning. The new series begins on Sunday, April 26, 2026 [citation:1].
The broadcaster teased plenty of “chaos” as the crew head to Vietnam. “New country, same chaos…and we wouldn’t have it any other way,” the caption on Instagram read [citation:1].
Fans were thrilled by the update. “Finally!” one posted, while another said: “Yes bloody yes can’t wait” [citation:1].
Vietnam Special and Cast Drama
ITV ditched the usual destinations of Marbella and Tenerife this year. The cast have been filming in Vietnam to shake things up [citation:4].
However, the drama has already started. Cast member Freddie Bentley left filming early. “Let’s just say a lot has happened already this series and I just needed to get back to Essex and have a breather,” he told followers [citation:1].
Meanwhile, several OGs are missing from the trip. Amy Childs and Lauren Goodger decided to skip the abroad special entirely. “They’re letting the younger cast take the lead this series when it comes to the abroad trip,” a source said [citation:4].
Like Ellie Warner has her own drama on Gogglebox, the TOWIE cast have been bringing the chaos on their Vietnamese adventure.
Feuds and Fallouts to Expect
The upcoming series promises intense feuds. Ella Rae Wise has revealed she is feuding with former pal Elma Pazar. “She needs to put her two pence piece back in her wallet,” she told Dani Imbert [citation:3].
Jodie Wells has also admitted she does not get on with Livvy Jay. “I don’t really f–k with Livvy. She’s not really my sort of person,” she said [citation:10].
Meanwhile, Junaid Ahmed claims Elma Pazar and Courtney Green have been spreading “complete lies” about him. “Other than that, I had a great, great holiday,” he added drily [citation:9].
Like Coleen Nolan has faced her share of TV drama, the TOWIE cast have been sparring both on and off screen.
Cast Departures and New Faces
Several stars have left the show. Roman Hackett announced he was quitting to open the “next stage of his career” [citation:4]. Chloe Meadows is taking an extended break and has not signed up for series 37. Love Island’s Sammy Root also left by “mutual agreement” with show bosses [citation:4].
However, fresh talent is arriving. A group of 18 and 19-year-olds are joining to shake things up. New cast member Will Childs, cousin of Harry and brother of original star Amy Childs, is among them [citation:4].
Like Lee Juggurnauth joined A Place in the Sun, these new faces are hoping to make their mark on the long-running reality show.
Conclusion
TOWIE remains as dramatic as ever. The new series promises fresh feuds, stunning Vietnamese scenery, and plenty of tears. However, the joy of the upcoming episodes is tinged with sadness following Jordan Wright’s tragic death .
Fans can watch it all unfold when TOWIE series 37 premieres on Sunday, April 26, 2026 on ITV. Consequently, viewers are in for a chaotic ride.
FAQs
When does the new series of TOWIE start?
The new series premieres on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
What happened to Jordan Wright?
The former TOWIE star was found dead in a drainage ditch in Thailand on March 14, 2026. An inquest is ongoing.
Where is the TOWIE cast filming?
The cast have been filming in Vietnam for the new series, ditching traditional locations like Marbella and Tenerife.
Who has left TOWIE?
Roman Hackett, Chloe Meadows and Sammy Root have all left the show. OGs Amy Childs and Lauren Goodger skipped the Vietnam trip but will appear in Essex-based scenes.
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