Nationwide — Latonya Pottain, the Louisiana woman featured on Season 11 of the reality TV show My 600-lb Life, has died at the age of 40. She is the 12 person from the show to have died. According to the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office, she passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center in Shreveport. A preliminary autopsy indicated congestive heart failure as the cause of death, though the final report is still pending.
Pottain joined My 600-lb Life in hopes of turning her life around with the help of the show’s renowned bariatric surgeon, Dr. Younan Nowzaradan—known to fans as Dr. Now. Despite her efforts, she frequently struggled to follow the program and continued to gain weight. Dr. Now eventually told her that he could no longer continue treatment due to her lack of progress. The only time she showed weight loss was during a previous hospital stay for heart-related issues.
The show, which airs on TLC, chronicles the journeys of individuals suffering from extreme obesity as they attempt to lose weight through surgery and lifestyle changes. Since its debut in 2012, it has drawn attention for its raw depiction of the emotional and physical toll of obesity, as well as the risks of weight-loss surgery. Sadly, several former cast members have passed away due to complications related to obesity or other causes.
Latonya Pottain’s death adds to the growing list of former My 600-lb Life cast members who passed away after sharing their personal battles with millions of viewers. Her story serves as another sobering reminder of the severe health consequences tied to obesity and the importance of sustained, holistic medical and emotional support.
