Rachel Frederickson Today: Life After 'The Biggest Loser' Controversy and a New Documentary

Nearly a decade after her controversial win on “The Biggest Loser,” Rachel Frederickson is back in the spotlight, not as a contestant, but as a central figure in a new, unsparing Netflix documentary. The three-part series, “Fit for TV: The Reality of The Biggest Loser,” is reigniting the global conversation about the show’s extreme methods and its long-term impact on its participants. For Frederickson, whose drastic weight loss of 155 pounds ignited a firestorm of public concern, the documentary offers a new lens on her journey—one that extends far beyond the final weigh-in.

Frederickson’s 2014 finale appearance, where she dropped from 260 pounds to a controversial 105 pounds, remains one of reality TV’s most shocking moments. Her transformation, which represented a nearly 60% loss of her body weight, visibly stunned trainers Jillian Michaels and Bob Harper and sparked immediate debate about the show’s ethics and the pressure on contestants to achieve extreme results. The new documentary features interviews with former contestants and producers, exposing the grueling regimens, minimal aftercare, and the psychological toll of the competition.

Today, Frederickson, 35, has intentionally chosen a quieter life away from the intense media scrutiny. She has since found a more sustainable balance, both personally and professionally. She resides in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and works as an analytics manager for an agricultural company. Her Instagram account is private, a clear indication of her desire for a life that prioritizes privacy over public display.

However, she has been open in the past about her post-show journey. In a 2014 essay for Today, she revealed the emotional impact of the public backlash, stating that the comments were “hurtful” and that her “self-esteem was affected.” At the time, she also shared that she had regained about 20 pounds, stabilizing at a healthier weight. She now focuses on a more balanced approach to wellness, which includes regular, but not extreme, exercise and a flexible diet. Her journey underscores the harsh reality that true health is about more than a number on a scale; it’s a combination of physical, emotional, and mental resilience.

The new documentary, which includes reflections from trainers like Jillian Michaels, who has since acknowledged profiting from a flawed system, has brought Frederickson’s story back to the forefront. While she is not directly interviewed in the series, her transformation is a key focus, serving as a powerful example of the show’s dangerous incentives.

Beyond the controversy, Frederickson has been building a new life. According to reports, she is married to David Pufundt, and the couple welcomed their son, Luka, in January 2025. This new chapter in her life, marked by personal growth and the joys of motherhood, highlights her focus on a future far removed from the pressures of reality television. Her story is a testament to the fact that while reality TV may showcase dramatic results, true transformation is measured by consistency, balance, and personal growth.