Billy Gardell Weight Loss Journey: How He Lost 170 Pounds and Changed His Life

If you ever watched Mike & Molly, you probably remember Billy Gardell as the lovable Mike Biggs, a Chicago police officer with a big heart and an even bigger belly. He made us laugh for six seasons next to Melissa McCarthy. But years after the show ended, Gardell made headlines again — this time for something very personal.

He lost more than 170 pounds. Yes, you read that right. That’s a whole person’s weight! But the road wasn’t easy. It took courage, surgery, discipline, and a lot of heart. In this blog, we’ll take a close look at how Billy Gardell transformed his life, step by step.

The Moment Everything Changed

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight (ET) in 2023, Gardell revealed that he once weighed over 370 pounds. It wasn’t just about appearance. His health was at serious risk. He had developed type 2 diabetes, and even basic activities became painful.

He shared that his resting heart rate was at 113, which is dangerously high. It was hard to breathe. Hard to move. Hard to live.

Then came the pandemic. Like many of us, Gardell had time to reflect. That’s when it hit him — “I don’t want to live like this anymore.” He knew he needed help. And he was ready to change.

Step 1: Making the Decision for Surgery

Billy Gardell didn’t rush into weight loss surgery. In fact, he said he chickened out a few times. And that’s totally understandable. Bariatric surgery is a big step. It’s not just physical — it’s emotional and mental too.

In July 2022, he finally went through with it. His surgeon, Dr. Philippe Quilici, performed the procedure. Gardell later said that Dr. Quilici “changed and saved my life.”

But Gardell is very clear about one thing: surgery is not a magic fix. It’s only the beginning.

“If you’re not willing to make the commitment after surgery, don’t do it,” he said in a PEOPLE interview in 2024.

He’s right. Studies show that one in four people regain the weight after bariatric surgery. That’s why he insists the real work begins after the surgery.

Step 2: Changing His Daily Habits

Once Gardell had the surgery, he didn’t stop there. He made serious changes to his lifestyle. Here’s what he did:

Diet: He started eating lean proteins like chicken and fish. He also filled his plate with vegetables. No more fast food runs or mindless snacking.
Exercise: Gardell began taking daily walks. Slowly, he added workouts three times a week. He built his stamina little by little.
Cheat Meals: He still allows himself one cheat meal a week, but he’s careful. Instead of eating a whole pizza, he has two slices and stops. No guilt. Just balance.

He didn’t try to be perfect. He aimed for progress — and that’s what made the difference.

Step 3: Reversing Diabetes and Other Wins

One of the most impressive parts of Gardell’s journey is how much his health improved.

His resting heart rate dropped from 113 to 68.
He reversed his type 2 diabetes.
His weight now floats between 205 and 210 pounds.

He feels better. He breathes better. He sleeps better. But most importantly — he lives better.

Step 4: Doing It for His Family

Gardell has been open about the biggest reason he chose to get healthy — his family.

During the pandemic, he realized he might not be around for his wife and son if he didn’t change.

“The idea of not being here for my wife or my kid motivated my change,” he said.

He also shared something that will stick with many of us — what he called “dad math.” When he turned 50, he started thinking about how old his son would be when he turned 75.

“If I can live 25 more years, he’ll be 40,” Gardell said. “I want to be here for him.”

That kind of love is powerful. It pushed him to take action. And it helped him stay the course.

Step 5: Being Kinder to Himself

This may be the most beautiful part of Billy Gardell’s story — how he learned to be gentle with himself.

Like many people struggling with weight, Gardell used to be hard on himself. He’d look in the mirror and say hurtful things. He thought being mean to himself would motivate him. But it didn’t.

Over time, that changed.

“You got to look in the mirror and go, ‘All right, I love you and I’m going to take care of you today.’”

That mindset — self-love over self-hate — was a major turning point. And honestly, it’s a lesson we can all learn from.

The Truth About Weight Loss

Billy Gardell’s journey is inspiring, but it’s also real. He didn’t lose the weight overnight. It wasn’t just because of surgery. And it definitely wasn’t easy.

He failed a few times. He doubted himself. He needed help.

But what made the difference was his commitment.

He stayed the course. He showed up every day. He chose to live.

And that’s what made him succeed.

Final Thoughts

Today, Billy Gardell is not just a talented actor — he’s an example of strength, humility, and transformation. His journey reminds us that change is possible at any age. That it’s okay to ask for help. And that health is worth fighting for.

Whether you’re struggling with weight or just trying to live a better life, take a note from Billy: