Dancing her way through the haters, Whitney Way Thore is embracing her body in a world that judges people by their size. She navigates both career challenges and relationship snafus with her vivacious personality, a sense of humor and an abundance of courage.
This series follows Whitney who was diagnosed with an endocrine system disorder called polyscystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which caused her, a slender dancer at the time, to gain more than 200 pounds in one year at college. Feeling trapped in a big body, she struggled with self-doubt and negative stereotypes. Now 380 pounds and eager to continue sharing her passion for dance, Whitney has learned to embrace her body and love herself again.
Production Companies
Pilgrim Media Group
TLC
Mountain Films
Barefoot Holidays
The Paris Bureau
Episodes
Cast
Season 1
1. A Fat Girl Dancing
43min
13th Jan 2015
After a health disorder caused her to gain more than 230 pounds, Whitney was forced to give up her one true love: dancing. But after encouraging news from a doctor, she's determined to show the world she can still move.
2. Hate Mail
22min
20th Jan 2015
At 380 lbs. Whitney is working hard to make her Big Girl dance classes a success. But as things seem to be looking up, the hateful jeers of a complete stranger deliver her a crushing blow.
3. The Say-Yes Philosophy
22min
27th Jan 2015
After saying 'no' to life for the past ten years, Whitney's new 'Say-Yes Philosophy' lands her in a plus-sized fashion show, an institution she resents as an overweight woman.
4. More Than a Buddy
22min
3rd Feb 2015
Since teaching dance has not led to weight loss, it's time to take things up a notch with a personal trainer. And her mom's suggestion that Buddy is "the one" has Whitney questioning everything.
5. Doing the Beach
22min
10th Feb 2015
A poor body image has prevented Whitney from going to the beach for almost 20 years. And while her insecurities have never been higher, she wants to overcome her fears with an epic return in a bold bathing suit.
6. A Fling Thing
22min
17th Feb 2015
While her parents prepare for their big wedding anniversary, Whitney entertains the idea of a fling with an old friend. But trouble brews when he shows up to the party and meets Buddy.
7. The Wedding Job
22min
24th Feb 2015
A bride hires Whitney to choreograph her destination wedding but when everything goes wrong, Whitney panics. After calling in Ashley as a reinforcement, their day turns into something completely unexpected.
8. The Double Blind Date
22min
3rd Mar 2015
In an effort to help Ashley find love, Whitney creates an online dating profile which ensues a tangle of lies. Buddy comes to Whitney's rescue and a proposal of marriage ensues.
9. Leaving the Nest
22min
10th Mar 2015
Whitney's dance career hits an all-time high as she prepares to lead a giant dance class. Meanwhile, she and Buddy go house hunting. But just as things are looking up, devastating news puts Whitney's future in peril.
10. The Skinny
22min
17th Mar 2015
Whitney looks back at all the big fat fabulous moments this season & shares insights into her most intimate relationships and answers viewers' provocative questions.
11. Babs Knows Best
43min
24th Mar 2015
The special revolves around Whitney's effort to cheer up her mom after a recent event has left her feeling blue. Both mother and daughter speak candidly about their relationship. Babs joins Whitney's dance class showing off some moves of her own.