John Goodman, the acclaimed actor known for his role in “The Conners,” has successfully maintained a remarkable weight loss of 200 pounds over nearly two decades. Despite a recent hip injury incurred in the U.K. earlier this year, the 73-year-old continues to impress with his transformation, showcasing a fit physique during promotional events for the new “Smurfs” movie on July 13, 2023.
Goodman’s journey toward better health began in the early 2000s, marked by significant lifestyle changes. He has openly shared his struggles and strategies, providing insights into the challenges of weight loss and maintenance. Initially, the actor made a pivotal decision to quit drinking in 2007. During a 2012 interview, he reflected on this choice, stating, “It was getting to be too much. It was 30 years of a disease that was taking its toll on everyone around me.” This decision was not merely a lifestyle change but a matter of life and death for Goodman.
In subsequent years, he became more vocal about his weight loss journey. In 2018, he acknowledged the difficulties of maintaining sobriety, admitting to drinking on set which affected his performance. With the support of a rehabilitation facility, he committed to sobriety and a healthier lifestyle. His personal trainer, Mackie Shilstone, played a crucial role in this transformation. Shilstone reported that Goodman was “very agile” and focused on achieving his health goals.
Goodman’s approach to weight loss was straightforward. He emphasized the importance of movement and exercise, initially working out six days a week with Shilstone. “I’m breaking a sweat but I’m not going nuts,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to a balanced routine. Additionally, he adopted a diet that included fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil, while cutting out sugar to improve his overall health.
As he shared in a 2010 interview, the key to his success has been portion control. “It was basically just portion control, and ‘I don’t need it,’” he stated, reflecting on his previous eating habits. Goodman recognized that the journey was not without its setbacks, acknowledging that weight loss is not a linear process.
In a 2023 interview, Goodman revealed that he has faced challenges in maintaining his routine due to a lack of energy from his work commitments. He mentioned that simple activities, such as walking his dogs, have been beneficial in sustaining his weight loss. While he took a break from boxing, which he described as a significant workout, he expressed intentions to resume a structured exercise regimen soon.
Goodman’s focus remains on gradual progress rather than immediate results. “This didn’t happen overnight — it’s been an ongoing process,” Shilstone noted in a previous interview, underscoring the commitment required for lasting change. Looking ahead, Goodman aims to refine his boxing skills, envisioning a return to the sport that he enjoys, albeit without sparring.
This ongoing journey reflects Goodman’s determination to live a healthier life, continually adapting his methods to meet new challenges. His story serves as a testament to the importance of resilience and a proactive approach to health and wellness.
