It may seem just like yesterday but it’s actually been over a DECADE since TOWIE first hit our screens (we know, we can’t believe it either) and there have been a lot of cast members come and go over the years, some more notable than others.
One former star of the ITVBe show who has become more widely known for his off-screen escapades is Mike Hassini.
Mike first joined the ITVBe series in 2015 but was axed in a dramatic cast shake-up in 2018, although he did make a one-off appearance alongside pals Tommy Mallet and Sam Mucklow shortly after.
After leaving reality TV fame behind, Mike hit the headlines in 2021 after being charged with with three drug-related offences, including intent to supply a Class A substance.
Shortly before Christmas 2021, Mike was found guilty and sentenced to six years and nine months in jail after admitting to drug offences.
However, Mike is now a free man once again following his release just two years into his nearly seven-year sentence. His girlfriend Jessica Milford revealed the news on Instagram in September 2023 when she shared a picture of them on a trip and told her followers they were spending her "first birthday together in two years".
Who is Mike Hassini?
Mike Hassini is a former personal trainer and reality star who appeared on TOWIE on and off between 2015 and 2018. He joined the show alongside his close pal Kate Ferdinand.
Why was Mike Hassini in court?
Mike was arrested on 16 April 2021 and charged with conspiracy to supply a Class A drug, possession of cocaine with intent to supply and possession of criminal property.
He later appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court in July, where he denied all three charges. His co-defendant, 23-year-old Gary Bear, admitted conspiracy to supply a Class A drug, but denied possession of criminal property.
The pair were remanded on custody ahead of a three to four day trial in November.
A 26-year-old woman was also arrested in April on suspicion of intent to supply a Class A drug but was later released under investigation.
How long was Mike Hassini in jail?
Although he was sentenced to six years and nine months, Mike spent two years in jail before being released in 2023.
A source told MailOnline, "Mike believes he's served his time and is now focusing on the future.
"He's fortunate to have only served a fraction of his sentence but feels rehabilitated, and is ready to move on."
Who is Mike Hassini's girlfriend?
Mike is dating Jessica Milford, a PR executive whose father John is a millionaire oil trader. She stuck by him while he was in jail.
Prior to his relationship with Jess, Mike dated Zoe Hamilton. It was even rumoured that she would be joining him on TOWIE, however they split before she made an appearance on the show.
Is Mike Hassini related to Kate Wright?
Mike joined TOWIE at the same time as his friend Kate Wright, as she was then known, with viewers speculating they could be related due to their close bond. This isn't the case, however, the pair are just pals.
Why was Mike Hassini suspended from TOWIE?
Mike Hassini was originally suspended from TOWIE in 2016 after being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and possession of cocaine.
"In view of the charges brought against him, Mike Hassini has been suspended from TOWIE until further notice," a spokesperson for the show said at the time.
After he admitted the charges in court and vowed to change his ways, Mike rejoined the show a year later.
When was Mike Hassini axed from TOWIE?
Although he rejoined the cast in July 2017, Mike was given the axe in January 2018 amid a massive shake-up which saw him depart the show alongside the likes of Chris Clark and Amber Dowding.
He returned to the show for just one episode later on in the year, but bosses confirmed it was a "one off" appearance.
Does Mike Hassini have Instagram?
Mike is on Instagram at @mike_hassini, although he hasn't posted since before his arrest in April 2021.