Reality TV personality James Argent, known as Arg from The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), shared a heartfelt tribute to his close friend Jake Hall following his sudden passing at age 35. Argent described Hall as his “dear mate,” expressing deep love and longing in a social media post viewed by nearly one million followers.
Behind-the-Scenes Memory Shared by Argent
Argent, 38, uploaded exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from a photoshoot four years ago, celebrating his major weight-loss milestone. In the caption, he reflected on processing Hall’s loss through videos, photos, voice notes, and messages from their friendship, noting it “hurts real bad.”
Hall had organized the shoot at his east London studio, featuring his own clothing designs from his menswear brand, By Jake Hall. Despite Argent’s initial uncertainty, Hall insisted, aiming to boost his confidence. “He did this because he wanted me to finally feel good about myself. He gave me so much confidence. He spent the day raising me up,” Argent wrote.
The pair laughed throughout the day, creating cherished memories. Argent praised Hall’s “infectious energy” and unique spirit, concluding, “Love and miss my mate so much.”
Wave of Tributes from Friends and Fans
Fans, friends, and former TOWIE castmates like Billie Shepherd, Danielle Armstrong, and Ferne McCann offered support in response.
Hall joined TOWIE in 2015, dating castmate Chloe Lewis before leaving the show in 2024.
Messages from Fellow Celebrities
Actor Ryan Thomas shared a black-and-white montage, calling Hall “always the coolest guy in the room” with unmatched “class, charisma,” and a special “magic.” Honoring Hall’s eight-year-old daughter River, Thomas wrote, “His next chapter is written in the stars now and it’s all about River. I promise she’ll grow up surrounded by love and stories about how inspiring and powerful her daddy is.”
Misse Beqiri, mother of Hall’s daughter, posted family photos, describing their hearts as “shattered.” She cherished Hall from their first meeting and noted the influx of messages as “both heartbreaking and beautiful.” Beqiri added, “You left behind your mini version, our River, and for that we are forever grateful. You will always live on through her, and you will forever be with us.”
Other condolences came from former TOWIE co-star Vas J. Morgan, who called the loss “deeply difficult,” and Made in Chelsea’s Akin Solanke, who said, “If I never told you how much you inspired me, I hope you knew regardless.” Celebrity DJ Fat Tony posted, “Devastating news we love you @jakehall such an awful loss to the world you beautiful man x.”
