Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, widely known as Dr. Now, has not been fired from My 600-lb Life, despite persistent rumors. As of August 2025, the 80-year-old bariatric surgeon remains a central figure in the TLC show, helping morbidly obese patients transform their lives. This article debunks firing rumors, explores Dr. Now’s net worth, career, married life, salary, and dating status, and provides fresh insights into his ongoing impact. With exclusive updates and a deep dive into his biography, we address what fans are searching for in 2025.
Who Is Dr. Nowzaradan? Biography and Background
Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, born on October 11, 1944, in Tehran, Iran, is an Iranian-American surgeon of Assyrian descent. At 80 years old, he continues to practice in Houston, Texas, specializing in bariatric and vascular surgery. His no-nonsense approach on My 600-lb Life has made him a household name, guiding patients through life-changing weight loss journeys. His expertise in laparoscopic surgery and dedication to high-risk patients set him apart. Dr. Now’s son, Jonathan Nowzaradan, produces the show through Megalomedia, ensuring its continuation.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Younan Nowzaradan |
| Date of Birth | October 11, 1944 |
| Age | 80 years (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Iranian-American |
| Ethnicity | Assyrian |
| Profession | Bariatric Surgeon, TV Personality, Author |
| Education | University of Tehran (MD, 1970), Saint Louis University (1971) |
| Current Residence | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Marital Status | Divorced (ex-wife: Delores McRedmond, 1975–2002) |
| Children | 3 (Jonathan, Jennifer, Jackie) |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $6 million (2025 estimate) |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| @younannowzaradan | |
| Notable Work | My 600-lb Life, The 6000 Lb Diaries |
| Book | Dr. Nowzaradan Diet Plan Book for Beginners |
Debunking the “Dr. Nowzaradan Fired” Rumors
Rumors about Dr. Now being fired from My 600-lb Life surfaced in 2022, fueled by unverified claims from a former cast member. These allegations suggested lawsuits and insurance issues led to his dismissal. However, Jonathan Nowzaradan, president of Megalomedia, confirmed in 2022 that Dr. Now remains active on the show. As of August 2025, Dr. Now is filming The 6000 Lb Diaries, a new series focusing on extreme weight loss stories, proving his continued involvement. Fans can follow updates on his Instagram.
Dr. Nowzaradan’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Dr. Now’s net worth is estimated at $6 million in 2025, derived from his surgical practice, TV appearances, and book sales. His salary per episode of My 600-lb Life is approximately $1,500, with patients receiving a $2,500 relocation stipend to move to Houston. Unlike typical surgeons, Dr. Now often waives fees for show participants, emphasizing his mission to save lives over profit. His book, Dr. Nowzaradan Diet Plan Book for Beginners, available on Amazon, contributes to his income, though he recently warned fans about resellers inflating prices to $90.
“I don’t need to make a living off every patient. My goal is to give people a chance at life,” Dr. Now told Houstonia magazine.
Career Highlights and New Ventures
Dr. Now’s career spans over 50 years, beginning after his graduation from the University of Tehran in 1970. He completed surgical training in the U.S., including a fellowship at the Texas Heart Institute. His pioneering work in laparoscopic surgery earned him recognition, notably from Dr. Denton Cooley, who invited him to collaborate after observing his skill. Dr. Now’s work on My 600-lb Life, which premiered in 2012, has reached millions, with Season 11 airing in 2023. In 2025, he launched The 6000 Lb Diaries, expanding his reach to younger patients. He also endorses health products, like AED defibrillators, via DreamHug.
Married Life and Dating Status
Dr. Now’s married life ended in 2002 after a 27-year marriage to Delores McRedmond. The divorce, citing cruelty, awarded Delores 70% of their assets. As of 2025, Dr. Now is not dating and keeps his personal life private, focusing on his career and patients. His three children, including Jonathan, remain close, with Jonathan playing a key role in his TV projects. Fans speculate about his personal life, but Dr. Now prioritizes his professional legacy over publicizing his dating status.
Legal Challenges and Controversies
Dr. Now has faced malpractice lawsuits, notably in 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2018. A 2007 case involved a patient’s death post-gastric bypass, while a 2017 lawsuit claimed he left a stainless steel connector in a patient’s abdomen. Most cases were dismissed, and Dr. Now maintains a clean record with the Texas Medical Board. Megalomedia faced a consolidated lawsuit in 2020 from former cast members, but Dr. Now was not personally liable. These challenges highlight the high-risk nature of his work with morbidly obese patients.
Dr. Now’s 1200-Calorie Diet Plan
Dr. Now’s 1200-calorie diet is a cornerstone of his program, emphasizing low-carb, high-protein, high-fiber foods with no sugar. Designed for short-term use, it aids rapid weight loss before bariatric surgery but risks rebound weight gain if sustained long-term. Patients like Pauline, who lost 520 lbs, credit the diet for their success. Dr. Now shares tips on Instagram, addressing childhood obesity and healthy living.
Unique Insights: Impact and Legacy
Having followed Dr. Now’s journey through patient testimonials, his impact transcends television. A 2023 case study of Geno Dacunto from My 600-lb Life Season 11 showed a 400-lb weight loss, highlighting Dr. Now’s blend of tough love and medical expertise. His approach, though stern, motivates patients to confront emotional barriers. In 2025, Dr. Now’s advocacy for childhood obesity prevention reflects his evolving mission. Unlike many reality TV stars, he reinvests his salary into patient care, a rarity in the industry.
Retirement Rumors and Future Plans
At 80 years old, retirement rumors persist, but Dr. Now shows no signs of slowing down. His physical activity has decreased, leading some to speculate a shift to a consulting role. However, his active social media presence and new show confirm his commitment. Fans can stay updated via Monsters and Critics or Wikipedia.
Conclusion
Dr. Nowzaradan remains a pivotal figure in bariatric surgery and reality TV, with a net worth of $6 million, a salary tied to his TV work, and a divorced status with no current dating news. Far from being fired, he’s expanding his legacy with The 6000 Lb Diaries. His 80-year-old wisdom and dedication continue to inspire. Follow him on Instagram for the latest updates.
