TOWIE star disowned at 18 before arriving in Essex with '£3 in his pocket'

You don’t see many gay muslim reality stars on TV, but Junaid Ahmed is ready to loudly and proudly smash every stereotype. He made his debut on in 2021 at 26, quickly becoming known for his bold presence and standout moments.

Now 30, Junaid – who was and Muslim aged 18 – has evolved from reality TV favourite to entrepreneur and advocate, using his platform to champion diversity and authenticity. Here, he exclusively opens up to OK! about the big step he’s set to take withn, and reveals his new luxe jewellery collab...

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Junaid, you’ve endured a lot to get where you are now. What message do you have for those in similar situations?

I get messages every day from closeted gay Muslim guys asking how I do it. And I always say, ‘You’ve got to be brave.’ My younger siblings were raised with everything, but I had to do it all myself. And if I can do it, anyone can. It’s not easy, but it’s possible. I’m 30 now, I came onto TOWIE at 26. I stirred the pot a little, added spice here and there. But now, I’m genuinely the most content I’ve ever been.

You’ve changed a lot over the years, haven’t you?

Totally. I remember my first media interview, I said, ‘I live and breathe the drama, I’m gonna ruffle feathers.’ And I did! But drama isn’t me any more. I’m settled now. I know exactly what I want. I’ve grown up. In my mid-twenties, I was like that. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still feisty. Don’t f**k with me, but I’m in a completely new era. Property, career, partner, happiness. I want to be an inspiration. I want younger Muslim boys, from any background or skin colour, to see someone like me on TV. There’s still a massive lack of diversity.

Do you think the industry is improving in that regard?

We’re moving forward. Look at , MAFS – there’s more diversity now. But we need more. I’m so proud of TOWIE for giving me this platform. I love my job. I’m going into my seventh series. I’ve given that show everything. You’ve seen me cry, laugh, storm out, and I wouldn’t change a thing. I wouldn’t be where I am today without TOWIE. I’m grateful for every moment.

Any regrets at all?

No regrets. I just wish I’d used my platform earlier to inspire others. But I was still learning. Reality TV is a short window of opportunity, I want to make the most of it. I’ve already made history as the first ever gay Muslim reality star - and I plan to keep making history.

Would you do any other reality TV shows?

Oh yeah, I wanna do no make-up, scared of everything – I’d be screaming constantly. I want to break new boundaries. No gay Muslim has done it yet or anyone from TOWIE in a long time. I’ve always pushed through fear to get where I want to be, so throw me out of that plane, I’ll do it! I’m drawn to challenges. That’s why the jungle would be a dream.

You’ve had some intense moments on camera. When the cameras stop rolling, how do you decompress?

. Our whole relationship’s been played out on camera. The very first time we met was on camera. So when filming wraps, Joe’s my support system. I’m the type of person who puts up a wall and pretends. We both have such pure hearts, and not everyone gets to see that side of us, which is fair enough.

But we’re each other’s support system. That’s why we’re so strong together – we’re best friends as well as partners. This is actually my first relationship, and I always tell him, ‘You’re my first and my last. I don’t need anyone else.’ I’m a massive believer that things happen at the right time. I turned 30, and everything started going in my favour – business, career, love.

Can you tell us about the new jewellery collection?

I’ve got a jewellery line, my biggest brand deal to date. Five figures – I’m over the moon! I’m becoming the face of April Star Jewellery and we launched my own 10-piece collection last month. Their pieces completely resonate with me – evil eye necklaces, bracelets, earrings and anklets. I’m a spiritual person, so for me, it’s about keeping negative energy away. The evil eye is something I grew up with – my mum used to tell me about it. It’s a massive part of who I am. The idea was to wear it while filming so I’d avoid drama. Though that hasn’t always worked!

What connects you personally to the collection?

Most of the jewellery’s made in Turkey, a Muslim country, and I’m a proud . I’m also the only gay Muslim reality star on mainstream telly. That’s mad. Growing up, I never saw anyone like me on TV – especially someone who looked like me and was living authentically. So this collaboration is a full-circle moment. The collection is for all genders, made from sterling silver and gold, and is super-affordable because I want it to be accessible, especially for younger people.

You’re building an empire! So, what’s next?

Oh, I’m in my boss era! And here’s an exclusive – me and Joe are looking to buy our first house together this year. A million-pound mansion in Chigwell, babe! People said we wouldn’t last, but look at us now.

How does it feel to prove people wrong?

I started from nothing – no family support, just hard work. I’ve built my career, found love, now I’m getting the house and next I want my big million-pound wedding. I’m so proud. I came to Essex with literally £3 in my account. Now, I live in one of the most expensive areas. My journey’s been tough, but if I hadn’t gone through that, I wouldn’t be this strong.

Junaid Ahmed’s collection for April Star will be available at

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