A resurfaced clip from The Only Way Is Essex has reignited fierce debate online, with viewers branding Mark Wright’s behaviour toward ex-girlfriend Lauren Goodger as “cruel,” “vile,” and “diabolical.”
Nearly 15 years after the episode first aired, a scene from the show’s early Christmas special has gone viral on TikTok — and fans are watching it through very different eyes in 2026.
Mark, now 38 and married to actress Michelle Keegan, was one of the original TOWIE cast members when the reality show launched in 2010. His on-off relationship with Lauren Goodger played out publicly over eight turbulent years before finally ending on-screen in 2012. But the newly resurfaced footage has left many viewers stunned by how events unfolded.
The Scene That Shocked Viewers
In the clip, Lauren — clearly still deeply in love — is seen chatting with Mark at a party. He asks her what her ideal Christmas present would be. She replies softly: “Go to New York, get away.” When Mark asks “Who with?”, Lauren answers simply: “You.”
What follows is the moment that has horrified fans.
Mark appears to give Lauren hope, telling her he still loves her and saying that if they could make things work, he’d get back with her “tonight.” But he quickly pulls back, saying he needs time and can’t commit — while continuing to emotionally engage with her.
When Lauren asks who he would choose if forced to pick anyone in his life, Mark responds that it would be her — because she’s the “easiest option.” Lauren becomes visibly upset, questioning what he means, as Mark insists he loves her but still can’t give her clarity.
Moments later, Mark walks away, leaving Lauren fighting back tears as emotional music plays and she wipes her face.
The Moment That Changed Everything
What truly fuelled the backlash, however, is what happens next.
Before the conversation with Lauren, Mark had been flirting with fellow cast member Sam Faiers. After leaving the party, he’s seen getting into a taxi — where Sam is already waiting. The pair hold hands, share a kiss, and drive away together, with Mark even winking at the camera.
For many viewers, that sequence sealed their verdict.
Social Media Reacts: “Absolutely Heartbreaking”
Fans flooded social media with angry reactions, expressing shock at how Lauren was treated.
“He absolutely broke her — that was painful to watch,” one person wrote.
“He gave her hope knowing full well he was leaving with someone else,” said another.
“I can’t believe he went on to have such a successful TV career after this,” added one viewer.
Others reflected on rewatching the show years later, admitting their perspective has changed with time. Many voiced sympathy for Lauren, praising her resilience and saying she “deserved so much better.”
A Clip That’s Aged Poorly
While reality TV often thrives on drama, fans say this moment feels different — not entertaining, but uncomfortable. What once passed as messy relationship drama is now being re-examined through a modern lens, with many calling out emotional manipulation and mixed messages.
Mark has since rebranded his public image and moved on with his life, while Lauren has spoken openly over the years about the emotional toll the relationship took on her.
But as the clip continues to circulate, one thing is clear:
for many viewers, this isn’t just old reality TV — it’s a reminder of how differently such moments are seen today.
And for Lauren Goodger, fans say, the heartbreak on screen still feels painfully real.
