Billy Gardell, best known for his roles on Mike & Molly and Bob Hearts Abishola, has undergone a staggering transformation, shedding over 170 pounds. But the actor is quick to clarify one thing: bariatric surgery wasn’t a miracle solution—it was just the start of a bigger commitment to changing his life.
In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Gardell opened up about what pushed him to make the drastic change, how he prepared for the emotional and physical challenges, and why maintaining his weight loss has required more discipline than he ever imagined.
A Wake-Up Call During the Pandemic
Gardell, now 54, admits that the decision to undergo bariatric surgery didn’t come easily. In fact, he “chickened out” of the procedure multiple times. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, a harsh reality set in. As someone living with type 2 diabetes and weighing well over 300 pounds, he was in a high-risk category.
“The idea of not being here for my wife or my kid motivated my change,” Gardell said. That fear became a driving force, leading him to make a serious decision. “I will commit to whatever it takes to get healthy.”
Years of Yo-Yo Dieting Led to a Breaking Point
Before surgery, Gardell tried everything from fad diets to medications in an attempt to lose weight. But the results never lasted.
“My cycle was lose 30 pounds, gain 35. Lose 30, gain 35,” he admitted. “That’s a yo-yo a lot of people deal with.”
That frustrating cycle eventually pushed him to take a more drastic step. After a consultation with Dr. Philippe Quilici in July 2022, Gardell underwent bariatric surgery—a decision he now calls both “life-changing” and “life-saving.”
Why Surgery Wasn’t the Cure-All
Despite the dramatic results, Gardell is clear: surgery didn’t solve everything.
“This surgery is not the answer. It’s just the beginning,” he explained. “If you’re not willing to make the commitment, don’t do the surgery.”
Gardell stresses that success only comes when the patient is emotionally and mentally prepared to change their lifestyle long-term. He notes that nearly one in four people regain weight after surgery, and without that inner commitment, it’s easy to fall back into old habits.
Building a Sustainable Routine
Since surgery, Gardell has lost a total of 170 pounds and now maintains his weight around 207 pounds. He credits consistency and structure as the real tools behind his progress.
His daily routine includes:
- A healthy, portion-controlled diet focused on lean meats and vegetables
- Daily walks
- Three structured workouts a week
- A weekly cheat meal that’s controlled (two slices of pizza instead of an entire pie)
This new lifestyle has helped him break free from what he described as a “prison sentence.” For the first time in decades, he feels healthy, active, and in control of his body.
Embracing a Kinder Inner Voice
One of the most powerful lessons Gardell has learned is the importance of self-compassion. In the past, he was often harsh with himself, using negative self-talk as motivation. But over time, he realized that mindset was damaging.
“You got to look in the mirror and go, ‘All right, I love you and I’m going to take care of you today,’” Gardell said. “That’s a hard thing to get to until you evolve emotionally. And I think that happened for me.”
He now celebrates small wins, finding motivation in everyday victories rather than chasing unrealistic goals.
From Type 2 Diabetes to Better Health
Before his transformation, Gardell was managing type 2 diabetes with medication. But he began questioning whether he wanted to rely on drugs for the rest of his life. That question played a major role in prompting his final decision to undergo surgery.
Today, he is no longer on diabetes medication and feels physically better than he has in years. “I’m walking around pretty healthy,” he shared. “It’s been a real gift.”
A Message to Others on the Same Path
Gardell is careful not to promote bariatric surgery as a solution for everyone. Instead, he encourages others to reflect deeply before making such a big decision.
“Study and really immerse yourself in the commitment it takes after the surgery,” he advises. “You’ve got to be ready to change your thinking.”
He emphasizes that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. It was only when he was honest with himself and ready to accept guidance that his transformation became possible.
Final Thoughts
Billy Gardell’s weight loss story is about more than pounds lost—it’s about reclaiming his life, both physically and emotionally. His journey highlights the realities behind weight loss surgery and the discipline needed to maintain results long after the procedure is done.
From struggling with diabetes to finding peace in daily routines, Gardell’s transformation is a reminder that true health starts with self-love, accountability, and a willingness to change. His story isn’t just inspirational—it’s a roadmap for anyone ready to take the first step toward better health.
