Original TOWIE Stars Could Return for New Spin-Off as Producers Plan 2027 Reunion

Some of the best-known former stars of The Only Way Is Essex could return to television in a new spin-off reportedly being planned for 2027, with Bobby Norris among the familiar faces linked to the project.

Producers behind the long-running ITV reality series are reportedly exploring plans to reunite some of the personalities who helped make TOWIE one of Britain's most recognisable reality television programmes.

According to a report published by The Sun on 15 October 2026, discussions are underway about a special series featuring former cast members, with filming provisionally planned for January 2027.

However, ITV has not formally announced the proposed programme, and no cast members have been officially confirmed.

Bobby Norris reportedly in talks for TOWIE return

One of the names linked to the proposed spin-off is Bobby Norris, who appeared on TOWIE for approximately ten years before leaving in 2021.

Norris became a familiar face to viewers through his friendships, relationships and involvement in some of the programme's most memorable storylines.

The report suggests he is among the personalities producers would particularly like to bring back.

Discussions are understood to be at an early stage, meaning his participation remains unconfirmed.

A return would give long-standing viewers an opportunity to catch up with a cast member who played a significant role in the show's history.

Will Mark Wright return to TOWIE?

Mark Wright is another name closely associated with the early years of The Only Way Is Essex.

The television presenter was part of the original cast when the programme launched in 2010 and subsequently established a successful career outside reality television.

However, the latest report suggests Wright is not interested in participating in the proposed reunion.

There has been no official announcement from Wright or ITV confirming his involvement.

Which other original TOWIE stars could appear?

The programme has featured numerous personalities who have gone on to establish careers in television, entertainment and business.

Among the best-known former cast members are:

  • Gemma Collins
  • James Argent
  • Lauren Pope
  • Joey Essex
  • Sam Faiers
  • Lydia Bright
  • Lauren Goodger

James Argent and Lauren Pope are among the familiar former stars mentioned in coverage of the proposed reunion, although there is no confirmation that either has been approached to participate.

The other names are notable former cast members rather than confirmed participants in the reported project.

Until ITV releases an official announcement, the eventual line-up remains unknown.

A return to TOWIE's early years?

The Only Way Is Essex first aired in October 2010, introducing television audiences to a group of friends and acquaintances living and socialising around Essex.

The early series became known for their relationships, arguments, friendships and glamorous nights out, with locations including Brentwood's Sugar Hut nightclub becoming closely associated with the programme.

Over the years, TOWIE has introduced numerous new cast members while retaining connections to its original Essex roots.

A reunion featuring former personalities could revisit some of those earlier friendships and explore how their lives have changed since they first appeared on television.

However, the precise format of the reported spin-off has not been confirmed.

When could the TOWIE reunion air?

The report suggests filming could begin in January 2027, with a possible broadcast during the early part of the year.

These dates remain provisional.

ITV has not confirmed a transmission date, episode count or final cast list.

A representative for TOWIE declined to comment when approached about the reported plans.

TOWIE prepares for more cast changes

The reunion reports come as the main programme faces another change in its cast.

Courtney Green is reportedly taking a break after approximately ten years, while Josh Francis and Becks Bloomberg are also expected to be absent from the forthcoming series.

Several established personalities are expected to remain, although ITV has not yet announced a complete cast list for the next series.

For viewers, the possibility of seeing former favourites return adds another development to what could be a busy period for the Essex reality programme.

Readers can also explore our TOWIE 2026 cast guide for details of the latest cast changes and Essex filming locations.

Has ITV confirmed the original TOWIE reunion?

Not yet.

As of 19 October 2026, the proposed original-cast spin-off remains a reported project rather than an officially announced ITV commission.

Bobby Norris has been linked to early discussions, while other possible returning personalities remain speculative.

Chelmsford City Hub will update this article if ITV confirms the programme, announces a cast or reveals a broadcast date.

Source: The Sun — Inside huge new TOWIE spin-off with the original cast, 15 October 2026