Leading the cast are Amy Childs (herself), Joey Essex (himself), and Gemma Collins (herself) in this long-running reality series following TOWIE’s Essex group.
Main cast
- HerselfAmy Childs1–3, occasional guest laterMain
- HimselfJoey Essex3–11, 13–16, 19–21, 25–Main
- HerselfGemma Collins1–2, 4–12, 14–24, 26–Main
Supporting cast
- HimselfJames Argent1–23, occasional laterSupp
- HerselfChloe Sims1–25Supp
- HimselfMark Wright1–6, 24–25Supp
- HerselfLauren Goodger1–8, occasional laterSupp
- HimselfFerne McCann7–22, occasional laterSupp
Guest & voice
- HerselfPete Wicks1–2, then main laterGuest
- HimselfChris Draper1–3Guest
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About this cast
The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) is a British reality television series that follows the lives of a group of friends and family in Brentwood, Essex. It premiered on ITVBe in 2010 and has become a cultural phenomenon, featuring a rotating cast of real people, many of whom have become national celebrities through the show.
FAQs
Who plays Joey Essex in The Only Way Is Essex?
Joey Essex plays himself; he is a real person, not a fictional character, and has been a central cast member since series 3.
Who plays Gemma Collins in The Only Way Is Essex?
Gemma Collins plays herself; she is a reality star who joined in series 1 and has appeared intermittently across many seasons.
Who plays Amy Childs in The Only Way Is Essex?
Amy Childs plays herself; she was an original cast member in series 1 and remains a regular face in later appearances.
How many seasons of The Only Way Is Essex have there been?
As of 2025, The Only Way Is Essex has aired 34 series (seasons) and numerous specials, with new episodes continuing to be produced.
Is The Only Way Is Essex scripted?
The show is a structured reality programme; while scenes are often set up and prompted, the cast are real people and their dialogues are largely unscripted.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026