Reality TV Cast Descends on Albania for New Season Filming
The cast of the popular reality series The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) has officially begun filming for its 38th season, with production now underway in Albania. Several familiar faces, including Amber Turner, Lauren Goodger, and Ella Rae Wise, were spotted showcasing their style in vibrant swimwear as they embraced the sunny locale.
Bikini-Clad Stars Make a Splash
Amber Turner turned heads in a striking burgundy bikini, complemented by a matching thigh-split skirt. She was seen relaxing by the pool, highlighting her toned physique. Lauren Goodger opted for a daring white lace crop top and a coordinating skirt, drawing attention to her figure. Ella Rae Wise chose a plunging navy blue bikini with white trim and matching sandals, adding to the sun-drenched scenes being captured for the upcoming episodes.
Other cast members also embraced the coastal setting. Livvy Jay sported a colorful, Pucci-inspired two-piece with black sandals, while Dani Imbert opted for a chic cream crochet ensemble. Becks Bloomberg was also seen in a stylish white bikini. The filming session also included a romantic moment, with Junaid Ahmed sharing a public display of affection with his boyfriend, Joe Blackman, during a stroll.
Absence of Key Personalities Noted
Notably absent from this filming trip are Sophie Kasaei and Jordan Brooks, who are expecting their first child together. Amy Childs and her family are also reported to not be participating in the Albanian shoot.
Jordan Brooks Shares Health Update Amid Recovery
The commencement of filming coincides with a significant health update from Jordan Brooks, who has been recovering from a severe bout of viral meningitis and encephalitis. The television personality, 31, recently shared encouraging news with his followers via Instagram, describing a recent medical development as a “miracle” as he anticipates the arrival of his child with girlfriend Sophie, 36.
Jordan was discharged from the hospital last month after a 22-day stay, having experienced significant health challenges including mobility issues and brain scarring. In a video set to The Beatles’ “Here Comes The Sun,” Jordan expressed his joy over his liver function returning to normal, a crucial recovery milestone after his count had reached critical levels, nearing liver failure.
“Miracle number one has happened – the results are in,” Jordan announced. “After two months of not being very well, my liver count going all the way up to 800 nearly in liver failure territory, my liver results are in! I got this amazing message from doctors yesterday and I have a normal liver again! My liver count LFTs are down to the normal rate – get in there! That is miracle number one.”
He continued, outlining his next goal: “Miracle number two is now waiting for the MRI to say that my brain is fully healed. I have an MRI in a few weeks hopefully that is going to tell us that finally hopefully everything is healed on this brain. I really really want my brain to be healed fully and I want to be fully discharged from hospital before my baby boy gets here.”
Jordan emphasized his determination to achieve this goal, stating, “That is the goal. It’s an achievable goal. I hope I’m doing everything I can possibly to make that happen. Trying to stay positive for that. This little step in the right direction really really has made it all feel better, it’s unreal. Just a little bit of positive news you know gives you that oomph to get to the next step. Onwards and upwards, this recovery is getting better and better. We stay positive, come on!”
Sophie Kasaei joined Jordan in the clip, expressing her immense relief. “Hearing that news was just, oh the relief! I know for you you get a relief but I just think for me, a relief also and it’s just we know you’re getting better,” she said. Adding to the hopeful outlook, Sophie concluded, “It’s going to be alright. We are praying and then miracle number three – the baby!”
Jordan further elaborated on his recovery in his post caption: “I got a text! – One that’s always anxiously awaited! Finally, one part of my body that was majorly affected during my illness has returned to normal! I really feel I’m slowly getting there and back to being JB! Now we continue to march on and get this brain back fully healed, and hopefully reach my goal of full discharge before my special delivery. Thank you for all your continued support! Never Give Up.”
Jordan, who first joined TOWIE in 2017 and returned in 2022, is now focusing on his recovery and the upcoming arrival of his child.

