Former 'My 600-Lb. Life' Star Dolly Martinez Dies at 30

The tragic loss shines a light on the challenges of severe obesity and mental health issues.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:07am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph of an enlarged human heart, rendered in glowing lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the physical toll of severe obesity.The tragic loss of a young life highlights the immense personal battles faced by those dealing with severe obesity and related health issues.Houston Today

Dolly Martinez, who appeared on the TLC series 'My 600-Lb. Life' in season 10 when she was 25 years old, has died at the age of 30. Her sister Lindsey Cooper announced the news on Facebook, remembering Martinez's 'bright personality' and 'loving spirit' that could 'light up any room'.

Why it matters

Martinez's story on 'My 600-Lb. Life' highlighted her struggles with food addiction and mental health, which many viewers could relate to. Her passing at a young age is a tragic loss and raises awareness about the challenges faced by those dealing with severe obesity and related health issues.

The details

Martinez was featured on 'My 600-Lb. Life' in 2021 when she was 25 years old. During her episode, she spoke candidly about her food addiction and how 'food is my go-to drug that takes my pain away.' The show documented her journey as she moved from Fort Worth, Texas to Houston to be closer to bariatric surgeon Dr. Now, in hopes of qualifying for weight loss surgery. Though she lost around 40 lbs., she was not approved for the procedure during her time on the show.

  • Martinez appeared on 'My 600-Lb. Life' in 2021 when she was 25 years old.
  • Her sister Lindsey Cooper announced her passing on April 11, 2026.

The players

Dolly Martinez

A former cast member of the TLC series 'My 600-Lb. Life' who struggled with food addiction and severe obesity. She passed away at the age of 30.

Lindsey Cooper

Dolly Martinez's sister, who announced her passing on Facebook, remembering her 'bright personality' and 'loving spirit'.

Dr. Now

The bariatric surgeon who treated Dolly Martinez during her time on 'My 600-Lb. Life'.

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What they’re saying

“You will always be loved, always be missed, and never forgotten”

— Lindsey Cooper, Dolly Martinez's sister

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Dolly Martinez at just 30 years old highlights the immense personal battles faced by those dealing with severe obesity and related mental health issues. Her story on 'My 600-Lb. Life' resonated with many viewers, and her passing serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for greater awareness, support, and access to effective treatment options for individuals struggling with these complex health challenges.