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Does The Only Way is Essex promote 'toxic masculinity'?

Over eight years, The Only Way Is Essex has kept viewers hooked with its glossy brand of real-life drama, served in glamorous locations along with some enviable outfits.

The show's opening disclaimer maintains that "the tans you see may be fake, but the people are all real".

However, the show's apparent reality has made uncomfortable viewing for some fans in the first two weeks of the new series.

Viewers have voiced concerns about the on-screen behaviour of some of the show's biggest stars and the way they treat their partners.

On social media, some have accused cast members James "Lockie" Lock and Myles Barnett of abusive language and behaviour.