Gemma Collins is "proud" of James 'Arg' Argent for stripping naked on 'The Real Full Monty: Live'.
Gemma Collins and James Argent (c) Instagram
The 'Only Way is Essex' star was said to be "touch and go" as to whether he would go through with the live TV charity performance in Sheffield on Wednesday (28.03.18), but the 30-year-old reality star overcame his insecurities to bare all alongside the likes of Alexander Armstrong, Jeff Brazier and John Partridge.
Arg's on/off girlfriend Gemma - who recently revealed the two have bought a house in Spain together - gushed over her "gorgeous" boyfriend following the charity stunt.
She wrote on Instagram: "So PROUD of you tonight #realfullmontylive.
"Your always gorgeous to me no matter what and don't like to see you so insecure about your body you must never be insecure and always own who you are all different it's what's in your heart that always counts #supportyourman #bodyconfidence #selflove (sic)"
The show aimed to raise awareness of testicular and prostate cancers, and Arg - who has struggled with his body image - dedicated his strip to his grandfather Seamus Hanely, who died of prostate cancer.
He wrote on Twitter: "My Grandad Seamus Hanely who died of Prostate Cancer 15 years ago, I love & miss him so much. This is for you! #BeatCancer #RaiseAwareness @itv NOW #TheRealFullMonty #Live (sic)"
Before the strip, it was reported Arg hadn't been able to get fully naked during rehearsals and wasn't sure whether he would be able to go through with it.
A source said: "It's no secret that James has struggled with body image issues, so the thought of stripping off has surprisingly left him feeling nervous.
"He hasn't yet been able to shed his clothes even when practising with the rest of the boys.
"He's travelled up to Sheffield for the performance, but he's not sure if he can go through with it. The rest of the 'Full Monty' crew have been really good and encouraging. He won't want to let them down.
"Their support, plus the adrenaline rush of a cheering audience and knowing it's for a good cause might be enough to get him to take the plunge - but it's touch and go."
Tagged in Jeff Brazier Gemma Collins James Argent