Daniel Franzese has revealed a striking change in his appearance, sharing shirtless photographs after losing 135lb over three years.
The Mean Girls star, who played Damian Leigh in the much-loved 2004 comedy, posted comparison pictures on Threads alongside a brief explanation of the changes he has made.
The actor, 48, shared the images responding to a conversation inviting people to celebrate their progress and encourage others. His reported weight loss amounts to approximately 61kg, or nine stone and nine pounds.
© Getty Images for Paramount PictuDaniel Franzese reveals his lifestyle changes
Daniel's post paired an earlier shirtless photograph with a more recent mirror selfie, showing the difference over the three-year period.
Alongside the pictures, he explained that he had stopped drinking alcohol, cut out sugar and established a regular exercise routine."No booze, No sugar, workout 4 times a week (or more) now counting macros," he wrote on Threads.
© ThreadsHis caption offered a snapshot of his routine, rather than a detailed eating or training programme. He did not specify his workouts or daily food intake.
Daniel had previously discussed his changing habits in July 2025, telling TMZ that he had tried Ozempic but found it unsuitable for him.
His latest photographs come after Daniel revealed he nearly passed out during a performance at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles in August.
© Toronto Star via Getty Images"Turns out doing stand-up on 30 minutes of sleep with no food or water is not the wellness journey I thought it was," he told the Daily Mail.
The Looking actor explained that he had been performing alongside "some of the best comics in the world", including Chelsea Handler, Tiffany Haddish and Jay Leno, when he "suddenly got lightheaded".
The experience prompted him to share a reminder about making time for basic needs, even amid a busy working schedule. "Sometimes you get so busy working and taking care of everything and everybody that you forget your own body needs taking care of too," he said.
"Consider this my reminder to you kids — sleep, eat and hydrate or Die-drate."
© CBS via Getty ImagesFans support Daniel Franzese's progress
The photographs prompted warm messages from followers, with several celebrating his achievement while emphasising that their affection for him had never depended on his size.
"Both bodies are beautiful but you've made so much progress congrats," one wrote.
Others congratulated Daniel on his commitment and thanked him for sharing the update.
The actor has previously advocated for greater visibility for larger LGBTQ+ performers, speaking about the opportunities available to actors whose bodies are rarely represented in leading roles. His work has included acting, comedy and public advocacy alongside his continuing connection with Mean Girls fans.
Daniel Franzese's memorable Mean Girls role
For many viewers, Daniel remains instantly associated with Damian, the witty best friend of Lizzy Caplan's Janis who helps Lindsay Lohan's Cady navigate life at North Shore High.
The film also starred Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried and Lacey Chabert, and Daniel returned to its world almost two decades later.
In 2023, he joined Lindsay, Amanda, Lacey and fellow cast member Rajiv Surendra for Walmart's Mean Girls-themed Black Friday campaign.
The advert imagined the characters as adults, revisiting North Shore and recreating familiar moments from the original film. Daniel's Damian was involved in directing the school's winter talent show.
Daniel Franzese's career beyond Mean Girls
Daniel's subsequent screen credits include Looking and I Spit on Your Grave, while stand-up comedy has become another important part of his career. He has continued performing on the Los Angeles comedy and improv circuit.
Now, his latest photographs have given followers a more personal update, with one fan responding: "And you're also an inspiration."
