Over three episodes, past contestants, cocreator David Broome, former host Alison Sweeney and trainer Bob Harper reflect on the series that awarded a large cash prize to the contestant who’d lost the most weight.

The Biggest Loser' is the subject of the 2025 Netflix docuseries 'Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser'

Mockery, dangerous weight loss practices and long-term health impacts — “The Biggest Loser” was a TV phenomenon that shaped how Americans view weight.

The Biggest Loser became a cultural phenomenon when it premiered in 2004 — but the show has been plagued with scandals and controversy as well. When NBC introduced the show, it followed a group of people deemed overweight who would compete in a 30-week competition.

David Broome, a co-creator of The Biggest Loser, says in the docuseries that he got the idea for the show after seeing a desperate “help wanted” ad for a personal trainer to “save my life” on a bulletin board outside of a gym. Once the show was underway, producers searched for similarly desperate contestants.

Season 17 winner Roberto Hernandez lost 140 pounds while competing on The Biggest Loser. Hernandez was the last winner from the show’s NBC run. Today, Hernandez is still a high school teacher. He loves being a family man to his four kids and a husband to his wife, Rosie.

The Reality of the Biggest Loser is on Netflix, find out why host Alison Sweeney left the show and what she does now.

Michaels was a trainer on “The Biggest Loser” for seasons 1, 2, 4-11, 14, and 15. She often motivated contestants by yelling at them or insulting them. In one clip from “Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser,” Michaels pushes a woman to keep exercising even after she vomits on a treadmill.

Jillian Michaels was a coach alongside Bob Harber on 'The Biggest Loser' in 2004 and has continued talking about fitness, politics and health. Here's everything to know about where Jillian Michaels is after starring on 'The Biggest Loser' in 2004.