Whitney Way Thore, star of My Big Fat Fabulous Life, recently revealed that she’s hoping to have a child—whether with a partner or on her own terms. At age 41, she’s taking active steps: in the latest season (premiering July 1, 2025), she begins the process of searching for a sperm donor and undergoing artificial insemination, calling it the “most intentional act” she’s taken to try to conceive
Together with friends, Whitney browses donor profiles—considering traits like height and health, but prioritizing genetic soundness over superficial characteristics. She describes the selection process candidly as “a dating app on steroids,” aiming for someone at least 5’7″ to help give her child advantages she lacked while growing up at 5’2″
She also reflects on fertility challenges posed by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which contributed to earlier pregnancy complications and uncertainty about her ability to conceive. Despite the medical hurdles, she expresses resolve: “I’m about to inseminate myself and hope that I get pregnant… there’s no going back now.” Whitney admits it feels strange doing it on her own—but deeply meaningful
Regarding her personal life, Whitney has shared that she would prefer to conceive with a partner if possible—but is prepared to proceed solo if she doesn’t meet the right person in time
Her upcoming season also promises to explore drama in her dating circle and evolving friendships as she navigates this next chapter while processing everything from family dynamics to ambition, intimacy, and self-acceptance.
