When it comes to relationships, James Argent is no stranger to drama — but one thing he wants to make crystal clear is that, despite their close bond, he and Lydia Bright are strictly friends.
The former TOWIE star has insisted that while he remains close to his high school sweetheart, there’s no chance of rekindling their romance.
The Fallout with Nicoline Artursson Over a Cryptic Social Media Post
The tension recently bubbled over in James’ relationship with his ex Nicoline Artursson, a Swedish beauty queen, after she posted something online hinting at his friendship with Lydia.
Nicoline’s post questioned whether it’s okay for a partner to hang out daily with an ex and their family — something that reportedly sparked a violent argument between the two in Spain.
This incident led to James receiving a six-month suspended prison sentence and a two-year restraining order.
James Sets the Record Straight on Lydia: Just Friends, No Romance
Despite the speculation, James told friends and MailOnline that his connection with Lydia is purely platonic.
“We speak on the phone every day, but it’s water under the bridge,” he said.
“So many years have passed. I would never go back to a romantic relationship with her.
We’re just friends — I’ve always been close to her and her family.”
Lydia, for her part, had recently ended a relationship with Ben Davies earlier this year.
She had previously called him “the love of my life,” so fans have been watching her love life closely.
A History of High-Profile Relationships
James has certainly had his share of high-profile romances, especially within the TOWIE world.
Aside from Lydia, he has been linked to Gemma Collins, another TOWIE star, and maintained contact with most of his exes, which he explains is just how his relationships have worked out.
Unlike many who cut ties after breakups, James prefers to stay friends.
Battling Demons: James’ Journey Through Addiction and Recovery
For years, James fought serious battles with drug and alcohol addiction, even suffering two near-fatal overdoses.
He’s been very open about his struggles, which included multiple rehab stints and a suspension from TOWIE after failing a drugs test in 2014.
Since 2022, James has been sober and focused on maintaining his health after undergoing gastric band surgery.
When asked about whether his recent legal issues might be linked to a relapse, James firmly denied it: “I’m still three years and four months clean and sober. I am devastated by what’s happened.”
The Brief Romance with Nicoline and Their Dramatic Breakup
James met Nicoline by chance in a Spanish supermarket last summer.
Things moved quickly, with insiders revealing James was “smitten” and even thinking about popping the question.
The couple gave a rare joint interview last November, sharing how it was love at first sight despite James’ past struggles.
But their relationship took a dark turn during a trip to Spain when a violent row ended with James pushing Nicoline.
He pleaded guilty to domestic violence charges and now faces a two-year restraining order — meaning he can’t contact her without risking jail time.
New Beginnings with Ekin-Su Culculoglu
Since parting ways with Nicoline and former girlfriend Stella Turian last November, James has found new companionship with Celebrity Big Brother star Ekin-Su Culculoglu.
The two live close to each other in Essex and have been spending more time together, with friends noticing the chemistry and excitement over what might develop.
Ekin-Su recently returned to the Love Island villa for an All Stars season and has had her own ups and downs with public scrutiny and trolls.
James has been a supportive friend during her difficult moments, helping her cope with the fallout from reality TV.
Past Relationships That Shaped James’ Life
James’ love life has been marked by intense highs and lows.
His relationship with Stella Turian, despite a significant age gap, was one of his more recent romances.
They shared travel adventures and sweet moments on social media but split last year.
James openly talked about how Valentine’s Day could be tough for him after the breakup.
Another well-known chapter was his on-and-off relationship with Gemma Collins, which was deeply affected by his drug addiction.
Gemma has shared how she fought hard for James, even saving his life multiple times during his darkest days.
Their romance ended in 2020 after James expressed a desire for an open relationship.
The Support of Lydia and Her Family Through It All
Despite the ups and downs, Lydia and her mother Debbie have remained a steady support system for James during his toughest times.
They have stood by him as he confronted his addiction and worked toward recovery, proving that their bond goes beyond romance.
James has been candid about past mistakes, including a well-publicized cheating incident involving Amy Childs.
That chapter added to the challenges in his relationship with Lydia, but they have since moved on and maintained a close friendship.
Looking Forward: James’ Focus on Sobriety and Health
Today, James is committed to his sobriety and health after losing over 14 stone and undergoing life-changing surgery.
He continues to focus on clean living and rebuilding his life, while navigating the complex world of fame, relationships, and recovery.