The friendship between trainers Jillian Michaels and Bob Harper, once a notable highlight of NBC’s The Biggest Loser, has evolved into a complex relationship since the show’s conclusion. The reality competition, which debuted in 2004, focused on overweight contestants striving to lose significant weight over a 30-week period. While Michaels and Harper were both integral to the show’s success, their offscreen rapport has been less amicable than it appeared.
Over its 16-season run, The Biggest Loser garnered immense popularity, drawing viewers who were captivated by the contestants’ transformations and the trainers’ guidance. Michaels joined the show for its first two seasons before stepping away, later returning in 2007. Harper remained with the program throughout its entire run, ultimately taking over as host after Alison Sweeney departed. While Michaels exited the series in 2011, she made a brief return for season 14 before her final departure in 2013.
In a statement to People during her 2013 exit, Michaels expressed her gratitude for the show but cited “fundamental differences” with the producers regarding her portrayal. She lamented the lack of focus on the relationships she formed with contestants, suggesting that it contributed to a negative public perception of her.
Despite their on-screen camaraderie, both trainers have indicated that their relationship outside the show has become strained. In a 2020 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Harper noted he was excited to work with new trainers and subtly acknowledged the distance between him and Michaels, prompting Cohen to suggest viewers “read between the lines.”
The situation became more pronounced after Harper’s heart attack in 2017. In an interview with E!, Michaels reflected on the incident, citing Harper’s family history with heart disease and critiquing his intense workout regimen. She confirmed that she had not been in touch with him since the incident, raising questions about the state of their friendship.
In 2020, Michaels stirred controversy with her comments regarding singer Lizzo‘s weight, stating that health should be a priority. Harper distanced himself from Michaels’ remarks, emphasizing that he would never impose his opinions on others unless solicited.
As their paths diverged, both trainers have articulated their perspectives on their friendship. In the recently released Netflix docuseries Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser, Harper commented on their past connection, revealing that he had not heard from Michaels after his heart attack, which he felt spoke volumes about their relationship.
Harper elaborated further in an August 2025 interview with The Guardian, acknowledging that while they were not “besties,” they had a significant partnership for many years on a widely-watched television show. He stated, “I would not expect Jillian Michaels to do anything other than what she wants to do.”
As Michaels and Harper continue their respective journeys, their past friendship serves as a reminder of the complexities that can exist behind the scenes of reality television, where personal dynamics often differ from public personas.
