Steven Assanti and his brother Justin Assanti (the “Villainous” Assanti Brothers) appeared on “My 600-Lb Life” in 2017. During that time, they enjoyed a small measure of fame among the show’s fans.
Justin and Steven Assanti first appeared alongside Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, aka Dr. Now, in season 5, episode 13, and have since moved on with their lives. However, fans of the show remain curious about their lives after the show.
Dr. Now is a Texas-based bariatric surgeon who lets TLC follow the life of his extremely obese patients, who weigh over 600 pounds, as they try to lose the extra pounds with the help of the famous doctor.
When Steven appeared on the show, he gained a reputation as problematic, but is that all there is to him? Keep reading to find out.
Who Is Steven Assanti?
Steven Assanti is an American reality TV star who rose to fame after appearing on TLC’s “My 600-lb Life.” He made several appearances alongside his brother on several episodes of the show, drawing a lot of attention from viewers all over the globe. Before then, he had appeared as a guest on “The Dr. Phil House: House of Hatred” show.
Steven Assanti was born on December 2, 1981, in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. He was raised alongside his brother Justin. Their mother did most of the parenting as she and their father separated when Steven was 11.
Steven’s childhood was not an easy one. His mother always sought happiness at the end of a bottle, contributing mainly to Steve and Justin’s poor upbringing.
He reportedly had to endure a lot of abuse from his alcoholic mother. To cope with the mental pain, he turned to food, and binge eating, which led to his excessive weight problem.
What Happened to Steven Assanti?
Dr. Now is famous for putting his patients on strict weight loss regimens that put their willpower to the test. His diets ensure that the participants who stay true to them become viable candidates for the surgery.
Unfortunately, before he could qualify for the bariatric procedure, Steven Assanti got himself dismissed from the hospital. He constantly had issues with substance abuse and was also prone to verbally abusing the medical staff.
Justin also left the hospital. However, he stuck to the routine and ultimately qualified for the operation. He presented a much more reserved front than Steven, who was quickly tagged unsavory.
Steven Assanti and Justin Assanti
The Assanti brothers share the same blood but completely different personalities. Little wonder they find it difficult to get along.
According to some sources, Steven, who once weighed over 800 pounds, and his brother, whose highest weight was just over 600 pounds, are currently not on speaking terms.
However, they continue to live their best lives. In a “Where Are They Now?” special, Steven revealed that he’d lost over 300 pounds and weighed roughly 500 pounds.
Of course, Dr. Now did not believe him, and he thought that he weighed more than that. On the other hand, Justin said that he lost 200 pounds after the bariatric procedure.
Steven Assanti’s Relationship
The former reality TV star may have been tagged problematic, but that has not gotten in his way of finding love.
The TV star married Stephanie Sanger after his stint on “My 600-lb Life.” However, he later claimed that the fame the series gave him affected his marriage. He also alleged that the editing on the show only showcased his flaws.
His wife supported his claim, saying he was more pleasant than problematic as he was portrayed on screen. Justin also agrees that their episode was exaggerated but accurately portrayed how difficult his brother could be.
Steven Assanti Now
He has found fulfillment in running his shop, Hobby Haven. He has claimed that working there helps him to deal with his social anxiety.
In February 2023, a rumor spread that Steven had passed away at age 40. However, his brother, who flies under the radar, refuted the rumors. Although they were estranged, he was able to confirm that his brother still lived.
Their present condition is unknown, but it is believed the brothers are still alive, living what their fans hope is their best lives. Other stars like Steven, known to have struggled with their weight, include Adele, Chris Farley, Melissa McCarthy, and Kelly Clarkson.