Watch Britain's Fattest Man

Britain's Fattest Man is a touching and candid documentary series that follows the life of a man who is struggling to lose weight and battling severe health problems as a result of his size. The show focuses on the story of Barry Austin, a 43-year-old man from Manchester who is morbidly obese and weighs over 65 stone (over 900 pounds).

The series begins by introducing us to Barry and his wife, Karen, who have been married for 18 years. We learn that Barry's weight gain began in childhood and escalated rapidly in adulthood, and that his size has had a profound impact on his physical and emotional health. Despite numerous attempts to lose weight, including bariatric surgery and fad diets, Barry's weight has continued to increase and he has become housebound as a result of his size.

Over the course of the series, we follow Barry as he embarks on a new weight loss journey, with the support of his wife and a team of healthcare professionals. We see him undergo a rigorous pre-surgery weight loss regime to prepare for a gastric bypass operation, and witness the physical and emotional challenges he faces as he tries to stick to a low-calorie diet and increase his physical activity.

The show also delves into the wider impact of Barry's weight on his relationships with his wife, family, and friends. We see Karen struggling to cope with the burden of caring for her husband, as well as the toll that his size has taken on their sex life and emotional connection. We also hear from Barry's sister, who reflects on the challenges of growing up with a brother who was always the 'biggest kid in the class', and from his childhood friend, who reveals the ways in which Barry's size has affected their friendship over the years.

Throughout the series, we see Barry's determination and resilience in the face of immense physical and emotional challenges, and his unwavering commitment to improving his health and quality of life. We also witness the kindness and compassion of the healthcare professionals who are supporting him on his weight loss journey, including his surgeon, dietician, and physiotherapist.

One of the key themes of the show is the complex and multi-faceted nature of obesity, and the many factors that can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. We hear from experts in the field of obesity research and treatment, who provide insights into the biological and psychological mechanisms that underpin this complex condition. We also see the impact of wider social and cultural factors on Barry's weight, such as the availability of affordable, healthy food and the prevalence of food advertising and marketing.

Overall, Britain's Fattest Man is a nuanced and sensitive portrayal of one man's struggle with obesity, and a powerful reflection on the wider issues surrounding this complex and challenging condition. The show is both insightful and inspiring, and offers a valuable perspective on the importance of empathy, kindness, and support in the face of adversity.