Tragedy has hit the My 600-Lb. Life community, as former cast member Dolly Martinez has sadly passed away at the age of just 30.
Her death was confirmed on April 11 in an emotional Facebook post shared by her sister, Lindsey Cooper, a message that has since resonated with thousands of people online.
Appeared on Season 10
Over the years, My 600-Lb. Life has told many powerful stories, and Dolly Martinez was one of the most memorable participants.
Now, the former reality TV star has tragically died at only 30 years old.
In her heartfelt tribute, Lindsey wrote that her sister had an incredibly bright spirit:
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beautiful sister, Dolly. Dolly had the brightest personality—she could light up any room with her laughter, kindness, and loving nature. She made everyone feel special, and her warmth will stay with us forever,” she shared on Facebook.
The family has not revealed the cause of death.
Just hours before announcing the loss, Lindsey had posted that Dolly was in the hospital “fighting for her life.”
In her message, Lindsey also found comfort in believing her sister is now reunited with their father:
“While our hearts are broken here, I find peace in knowing she is now with our dad in heaven. I can only imagine their reunion. Rest peacefully, Dolly. You will always be loved, missed, and never forgotten.”
Dolly was introduced to viewers during Season 10 of the TLC series when she was 25 years old. She openly shared her struggles with food addiction and mental health challenges.
At the time, she weighed close to 600 pounds and required oxygen support, often needing help with daily activities. One of the most striking things she shared was her emotional honesty:
“The only thing strong enough to distract me from darker thoughts is food,” she said on the show. “Food is my coping mechanism. It helps numb my pain… It’s more than pleasure—it feels like my reason for living.”
Her journey led her to move from Fort Worth to Houston in hopes of qualifying for weight loss surgery under Dr. Nowzaradan’s care. She lost around 40 pounds, but ultimately was not approved for surgery during her time on the program.
After the show, life remained difficult. Reports suggest she experienced ongoing struggles, including periods of homelessness following an abusive relationship.
However, her social media later showed signs of hope, where she wrote in her bio:
“Not homeless anymore. Taking life day by day.”
Dolly’s life also included painful personal losses, including losing custody of her daughter shortly after birth. The child is believed to be in the care of her mother.
Since news of her passing broke, social media has been filled with tributes from friends, fans, and viewers—many remembering her not only for her struggles, but for her kindness, humor, and strength.
Though her journey was filled with hardship, those who knew her say she left a meaningful impact on everyone she met—and on countless viewers who followed her story.
Rest in peace, Dolly Martinez.