At a Glance
- Former “The Office” actor Craig Robinson has shed 50 pounds and stopped drinking alcohol.
- He attributes his transformation to intermittent fasting, a vegan diet, and regular exercise.
- The journey began after a surprise weight check and has been highlighted on television and talk shows.
Craig Robinson, best known for playing Darryl on “The Office,” has recently taken a spotlight for a different reason: his dramatic health makeover. During a January 22 appearance on TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, the actor revealed how a series of lifestyle changes helped him lose weight, quit drinking, and adopt a plant-based diet.
The Spotlight on Craig Robinson
Robinson’s career has spanned television, film, and Broadway. He now stars as part of a rotating cast in the Broadway comedy All Out. Despite his busy schedule, he has made time for a comprehensive health overhaul, a journey that has captured the curiosity of fans and media alike.
The Turning Point: The Scale
“The scale,” Robinson joked, “was the moment I realized I was thirty-something pounds over my target. After the shock and depression, I said, ‘Let me get to it.'” The comment, delivered with humor, underscored the emotional impact of seeing his weight on a digital display. The revelation sparked a commitment to change.
Health Commitments
Robinson’s transformation is built around four pillars:
- Intermittent fasting – a structured eating pattern that limits the daily eating window.
- Vegan lifestyle – a plant-based diet that he says is easier than he expected.
- Regular exercise – consistent workouts to support weight loss and overall fitness.
- Alcohol cessation – quitting drinking for over two years, with a focus on liver regeneration.
During the TODAY interview, Robinson explained:
> “Working out, intermittent fasting. It’s like the cheat code,” he said. “And I stopped drinking alcohol.”
When asked if he had given up drinking forever, he replied, “We’ll see what happens,” before adding he hadn’t had a drink in two and a half years.
Timeline of the Journey
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| January 22, 2023 | TODAY interview | Robinson discussed his weight loss, fasting, vegan diet, and alcohol cessation. |
| 2017 | Harry Connick Jr. talk show | He revealed he had lost about 50 pounds and hadn’t been drinking since January. |
| 2017 | Public statements | Robinson cited a six-month liver regeneration goal after quitting alcohol. |
The Vegan Shift
Robinson has embraced veganism as part of his health strategy. “It’s amazing,” he told a media outlet, noting the abundance of vegan restaurants and dishes. The diet shift complements his intermittent fasting and workout routine, creating a holistic approach to wellness.
Alcohol Cessation and Liver Health
He explained that he stopped drinking alcohol in January of an unspecified year and had been sober for over two years. Robinson mentioned a belief that the liver can regenerate within six months, a goal he set for himself: “I was like, ‘Let me see if I can go six months,’ and I just haven’t gone back.”
Impact on Fans and Media
The actor’s openness has resonated with audiences who see his journey as a relatable example of lifestyle change. Fans have praised his honesty and the practical steps he shares, from fasting schedules to plant-based meal ideas.
Key Takeaways
- Weight loss is achievable: Robinson’s 50-pound drop demonstrates that sustained effort can produce significant results.
- Lifestyle changes matter: Combining diet, exercise, and sobriety can lead to lasting health benefits.
- Public figures can inspire: By sharing his story, Robinson encourages others to pursue healthier habits.
Craig Robinson’s health journey highlights the power of commitment and the impact of sharing personal transformation with the public.
This story first appeared on TODAY.com.
