Whitney Way Thore, star of TLC’s “My Big Fat Fabulous Life,” recently shared her thrilling engagement story at the Creative Arts Emmys held on 5 September 2026. In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, the 42-year-old reflected on her initial concerns that her fiancé Jake Beaudoin might actually end their relationship instead of proposing.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/whitney-way-thore-jake-Beaudoin-090926-2-5977ae081f104f5d87f9959c8cc26cc4.jpg)
While attending the Emmys alongside Beaudoin, Thore revealed that moments leading up to the proposal were filled with uncertainty. “I thought he was about to break up with me, which is the funny thing,” she admitted. During a recent trip together, Thore found herself convinced that Beaudoin would end things upon their return home. “I just know when we get home he’s going to leave. I just know he is,” she confessed.
This apprehension stemmed from Beaudoin’s behaviour during the trip, which she described as “a little weird.” Thore explained that she feared their relationship could either lead to a commitment or a breakup, leaving her in doubt about their future. However, her fears were swiftly allayed when Beaudoin proposed with a sentimental aquamarine ring, which Thore described as “incredibly meaningful.”
Reflecting on the proposal, Thore stated that both she and Beaudoin had reached a stage in their lives where they felt ready to make this significant commitment. “I think that we’re just both at a place in life where our compatibility and our willingness to commit to each other finally aligned and now we’re getting married,” she shared.
The wedding planning process seems to be well underway, with Thore taking the reins. However, it appears her fiancé might need to catch up on the details. “I’ve already planned. He doesn’t know a thing,” she joked, explaining that when asked about their wedding venue, she confidently stated, “Iceland.” Beaudoin’s surprise response of “Oh, that would be cool,” highlighted the disparity in their levels of preparation. “Men! I basically got everything planned,” she quipped.
In addition to the personal joy, Thore indicated that she intends to share this milestone with her fans. “I’ve shared my entire life for 14 seasons. I don’t think I’m going to stop at my wedding,” she stated, suggesting that cameras will likely be present to capture the special day.
The announcement of their engagement came just days after Thore made her relationship with Beaudoin Instagram official on 15 August 2026. In her post, she shared a photo of them together against the picturesque backdrop of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, immersing her audience in her happiness.
Leading up to this public reveal, Thore had only given her followers brief glimpses of Beaudoin. However, since he has been introduced, she has been eager to showcase their relationship. During the Creative Arts Emmys, where she presented awards for Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork, Thore expressed her gratitude for her partner. “It’s something that I love about him so much that I’ve always wanted in a relationship,” she said. She praised Beaudoin for his willingness to step outside his comfort zone, both on screen and at public events.
Thore’s heartfelt commentary reflects not only her excitement for her upcoming wedding but also the strong bond she shares with Beaudoin. Their engagement marks a new chapter in their love story, one which Thore is enthusiastic to bring to her fans, staying true to her reality TV roots. As preparations continue, all eyes will be on this beloved couple and the next steps in their journey together.