Following the news that TOWIE legend Lauren Goodger is returning to the show, we’ve been thinking about some of the iconic reality stars that made the show what it is today.
It’s been a whopping 14 (yes, FOURTEEN) years since the ITVBe show made its debut and over 100 cast members have been and gone since then. From well-known names like Mark Wright, Gemma Collins and Joey Essex to those… less successful (Michael Woods, anyone? Nah, us neither), TOWIE wouldn’t be the same without each and everyone of the personalities that have graced our screens over the years.
Someone who was definitely instrumental in putting TOWIE on the map was Lauren Pope. The model and DJ featured in some of the show’s biggest storylines like her relationship with Kirk Norcross and her on/off friendship with Chloe Sims. We last saw Lauren on the show in 2018, so what has she been up to since then? We’ve got all the answers.
Who is Lauren Pope?
Lauren Pope is a reality star best known for appearing on TOWIE on and off between 2010 and 2018. As well as her reality TV exploits, Lauren has worked as a model, DJ and social media influencer. She also owns the hair extensions brand Hair Rehab London.
How old is Lauren Pope?
Born on 29 September 1982, Lauren is currently 41 years old.
Where is Lauren Pope from?
Although she’s known for appearing on The Only Way is Essex, Lauren is actually originally from Torquay in Devon.
When was Lauren Pope on TOWIE?
Lauren first appeared on TOWIE between 2010 and 2015 before leaving the show. She rejoined the cast two years later before quitting the show for good in 2019. Over the 20 series that she featured on, Lauren was known for her friendships with Maria Fowler and Chloe Sims. She was romantically involved with the likes of Kirk Norcross, Mario Falcone, Lewis Bloor and Dan Edgar.
Why did Lauren Pope quit TOWIE?
Lauren quit TOWIE in 2019 to focus on her relationship with then-boyfriend Tony Keterman and her work outside the show. At the time, Lauren had been dating financial specialist Tony for a few months.
A source told The Sun, “He's a millionaire, and not interested in being famous. He's really into Lauren and this relationship feels different to previous relationships for her as he's in his thirties and isn't into drama.
“She’s always travelling and her business is hugely successful, so she doesn’t have enough time to appear on TOWIE full time.”
In a statement, Lauren said, “After an amazing nine years on The Only Way Is Essex I have decided that now is the natural time for me to leave.
“I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities that the show has brought my way and have loved being part of the cast.”
She added, “On top of that, Lime [Pictures, who make the show] have become an extended family to me and I’ll be forever grateful for their guidance and support over the years. Nonetheless, I feel now is the time for me to move on so I can focus my attention wholeheartedly on my business ventures and personal relationship.”
Who is Lauren Pope’s boyfriend?
Lauren is currently single, but her most recent boyfriend was millionaire businessman Tony Keterman. They began dating in 2018 and went public with their relationship in January 2019, but split after five years in 2023.
Tony made his fortune as the Chief Executive of currency trading business Hamilton Court FX, based in the City of London.
Why did Lauren Pope and Tony Keterman split?
Lauren revealed she had split from Tony in November 2023 when she opened up about “adjusting to life as a single mum” on Instagram. Although she didn’t elaborate on why they had split, Lauren told her followers. “I’m on this journey with as much positivity as humanly possible especially with everything going on in the world right now. I know that so many of you will be in the same situation and I hope that together we can navigate through this. You are not alone, I’m here living it with you."
How many children does Lauren Pope have?
Lauren shares two daughters with her ex-boyfriend Tony. Their eldest child, Raine Anais, was born in July 2020. Two years later, in June 2022, Lauren gave birth to their second daughter, Leni Star.
Although Lauren’s children often feature on her Instagram, she has made the decision not to show their faces on social media.
What is Lauren Pope doing now?
Lauren still runs her successful hair extensions brand Hair Rehab London, with her products being sold worldwide. She also recently launched The Mum Space, an online community for mums, with close pal and TOWIE co-star Maria Fowler.
What’s Lauren Pope’s Instagram?
You can find Lauren on Instagram at @laurenpopey.